Tire Upgrade

[Kramer]

Hi, I’m trying to decide which tires are best for my area of the country. I reside in Carlsbad, coastal Southern California, where much of the year we have dry weather, some rain, and no snow.

By now my head is spinning with all my internet surfing trying to figure out the best plan on new tires. I think I’m more confused than ever!

I’d like to know prevailing thoughts on increasing tire size (2005 Prius) to 195/60-15 or even 205/60-15 from stock. I’m trying to decide between the Michelin Pilot Axalto A/S and the Michelin X Radial DT. Any other tire recommendations for Southern Cal driving would be appreciated.

Any suggestions on 4-wheel alignment specifications too?

[jamarimutt]

The stock tires are fine and they're already paid for.

[silentak1]

Go with 195/60/15. Minimal impact on the speedometer so it won't be off by more than 1-2mph @ 65mph.

I'd personally go for Nittos or Yokohomas because they are cheaper in price, and at the same time excellent quality. Yes, Michelin is better but it is too much for marginal benefits.

Answering your question, Pilot Axalto are excellent for SoCal weather.

[Jennjay]

I'm happy with the Michelin X. It was highly rated in all categories with the exception of snoiw and ice where it was just above average ( still did ok). I, like you, do not need to worry about winter conditions.

[Kramer]

330286[/snapback]</div><div class='quotemain'>
Go with 195/60/15. Minimal impact on the speedometer so it won't be off by more than 1-2mph]
I'm happy with the Michelin X. It was highly rated in all categories with the exception of snoiw and ice where it was just above average ( still did ok). I, like you, do not need to worry about winter conditions.
[/b]

Looks like I narrowed it down to two good tires for my driving conditions. What do you think about going to a bigger tire size?

[SW03ES]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(jamarimutt @ Oct 9 2006, 06:56 PM) [snapback]330281[/snapback]</div>

The stock tires are fine and they're already paid for.
[/b]

I disagree. The stock tires are loud, hard, and they have poor grip in rain and snow. In my experience with tires (and I've had a lot), almost any tire is better than the stock tires.

[Kramer]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SW03ES @ Oct 9 2006, 06:40 PM) [snapback]330307[/snapback]</div>

I disagree. The stock tires are loud, hard, and they have poor grip in rain and snow. In my experience with tires (and I've had a lot), almost any tire is better than the stock tires.
[/b]

Not to mention mine are worn out at 21K and I rotated them with every oil change too.

Any suggestions for me on my tire question?

[SW03ES]

We replaced ours with Michelin MXV4s and are pleased. The MXV4 is a really quiet tire with ultra low rolling resistance and long treadwear, I have them on the Lexus too. They're pricey, and grip isn't what it is on more aggressive tires with higher rolling resistance (but better than OEM), but I'm pleased with them.

Honestly, anybody who thinks the stock tires are okay needs to drive a Prius with replacement tires. The difference in...everything is just night and day, and our stock tires weren't worn out when we replaced them either.

[FreshAirGuy]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SW03ES @ Oct 9 2006, 08:54 PM) [snapback]330317[/snapback]</div>

We replaced ours with Michelin MXV4s and are pleased. The MXV4 is a really quiet tire with ultra low rolling resistance and long treadwear, I have them on the Lexus too. They're pricey, and grip isn't what it is on more aggressive tires with higher rolling resistance (but better than OEM), but I'm pleased with them.

Honestly, anybody who thinks the stock tires are okay needs to drive a Prius with replacement tires. The difference in...everything is just night and day, and our stock tires weren't worn out when we replaced them either.
[/b]

Whole heartily agree. It is like driving another car. I my case the improved ride was costly not only in terms of wheels and tires but also it seems in about a 11% drop in MPG.

[Tideland Prius]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(SW03ES @ Oct 9 2006, 04:54 PM) [snapback]330317[/snapback]</div>

We replaced ours with Michelin MXV4s and are pleased. The MXV4 is a really quiet tire with ultra low rolling resistance and long treadwear, I have them on the Lexus too. They're pricey, and grip isn't what it is on more aggressive tires with higher rolling resistance (but better than OEM), but I'm pleased with them.

Honestly, anybody who thinks the stock tires are okay needs to drive a Prius with replacement tires. The difference in...everything is just night and day, and our stock tires weren't worn out when we replaced them either.
[/b]

Agreed. Chalk another one up for the MXV4 Plus. They're comfortable, quiet and are rated x-green (which I presume is Michelin speak for LRR). The treads on those are like the Grand Canyon and those on the Integrity is like a stream. No comparison.