Already spoiling my X

[jvit27]

In two weeks of ownership, i've already activated the Sirius, relocated the antenna inside the rear spoiler, updated the Navi to v29.1 and picked up an OEM hitch. Friend of mine with a repair shop had to buy two for other customers and knew I was planning to get one too so he negotated a deal on three. Got it complete brand new for $400 so I couldnt pass that up!

My X has 31k and still has the original tires. They have some treadlife left but are pretty noisy so I decided to get some new shoes. I searched the forum awhile looking for feedback on tires and it came down to the usual three: Diamaris, Advan, and Proxies.

I quickly dismissed the Toyos after reading alot of complaints about getting noisy after 8-10k miles. Also the fact they were all-seasons turned me off so it was between the Michelins and the Yokohamas. I called up Jim@Tirerack for some advice and while he didn't come out and actually SAY the Yoko's were better, but his tone basically implied he preferred them even though you cant really go wrong with either. The Advan's have stiffer sidewalls and slightly better treadwear ratings over the Diamaris. I was wary about the Michelins getting noisy like my current set(but was impressed with the mileage they lasted, as many others here have gotten comprable life out of them). Typically treadwear ratings should only be applied within the same brand, so even if Yokohama's 320 is comprable to Michelins 220 ill be happy and if they last longer then that would be just fine by me.

FYI A few other places I checked had mentioned they could not get the Diamaris' which leads me to believe they may be on their way to being discontinued especially since it seems the Latitude is taking over demand for that size... keep that in mind if any of you are planning this purchase in the near future. I never like to buy tires you cant get since replacement issues may be a concern down the road.

The price was identical but the Michelins were on backorder. My dad has Yokohamas on his truck and has been very happy with their performance and constantly praises how quiet they are so that sealed the deal for me.

$1365.14 later...


Something interesting worth mentioning: One of my dogs noticed that these looked wider so I broke out my tape measure. She was right! The rears are just over 1/4" wider in the front and 3/4" wider in the rear than the same-sized Diamaris'. These things are MASSIVE! Quite deceptive until you see them off the car. I took this shot to capture the relative size




They'll be installed next week. I've got an appointment to repair some curb rash courtesy of the previous owner so all 4 wheels are being refinished and dismissing any further snide remarks about ME not being able to park! May even choose a silver that's a little more brilliant than the OEM color for a subtle touch. After that it's getting lowered via DIS at the dealership and then getting a good alignment while its in for some other warranty stuff to get the car closer to perfect. I'll be taking it on my first highway trip out of town next weekend so it should be driving even better than it does now!!