Replacement Tire Issue

[Wausau 911]

My '04 C2 has almost new front 18" Michelin Pilot Sport A/S, came with the car last. I need new rear tires but the problem is the Michelin tires aren't available any longer per Tirerack, and they recommending Conti Extreme DWS. Never miXed tires before on any of my cars. Should I be OK with the Conti's?

Replies appreciated - thx

[Ronnie38]

being an Old Man now, What you need is to make sure that the tire compound is the same or softer in the rears. In the old days there were color dots to show you the softness of the racing compound, those days are gone now you have to find the specifications. a lot of tire dealers don't know what you are talking about. Now days the hardest compound is used on hybrids minimum rolling resistance. The softest are snow tires. The reason for like compound is so the rear tires don't brake loose and pass the front tires. And if the front are to hard, steering on corners becomes a *****

[fpb111]

Look at the date code on your fronts If older then 6 yrs. They have aged out replace them even if there is tread left.

"How Long Does a Tire Last?

Carmakers, tiremakers and rubber manufacturers differ in their opinions about the lifespan of a tire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has no specific guidelines on tire aging and defers to the recommendations of carmakers and tire manufacturers. Carmakers such as Nissan and Mercedes-Benz tell consumers to replace tires six years after their production date, regardless of tread life. Tire manufacturers such as Continental and Michelin say a tire can last up to 10 years, provided you get annual tire inspections after the fifth year. The Rubber Manufacturers Association says there is no way to put a date on when a tire "expires," because such factors as heat, storage and conditions of use can dramatically reduce the life of a tire."

http://www.edmunds.com/car-care/how-old-and-dangerous-are-your-tires.html

Edited February 11, 2014 by fpb111

[Wausau 911]

Thx for the replies, but the question is about mixing tire brands and tread differences. I understand age issue and compound variances

[binger]

I agree with fpb111 regarding date codes especially on Porsche. I also think a lot of us take for granted what speeds we really drive. I dont know if you have ever had a high speed blowout? I can tell you from experience its no fun! It can even kill you. If you cant find a matching set of Michelin Pilot Sport A/S I would not mix tread patterns or MFGs. Thats my 2 cents worth, see the tire below that shot me across the freeway and almost flipped my car @ 90MPH. One of the most important parts on the car we all try and skimp out on. Just buy a new set of tires your car will also drive better.

[stutzchris]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/4-NEW-265-35-18-MICHELIN-PILOT-SPORT-A-S-3-35R-R18-TIRES-CERTIFICATES-/360857438844?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Tires&hash=item5404c78a7c&vxp=mtr

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2-NEW-265-35-18-MICHELIN-PILOT-SUPER-SPORT-35R-R18-TIRES-/310812846002?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Tires&hash=item485de3a7b2&vxp=mtr

[Wausau 911]

Thx Stuts, appreciated!

[Wausau 911]

Last question on this issue. Stock tire is a 285x30x18. Thx to Stuts, I found the OEM size at Discount tire direct for $404 each.

The 265/35/18 is $242 each. Both are Michelin pilot sport A/S. Never drive over 75mph and use car around town and country roads.

Will the lower cost tire be suitable as far as fitment and my driving style? Thx for replies.

[Loren]

Yes, 265/35/18 is fine.

[Wausau 911]

As always thx Loren for your insight.

[Rob357]

I have the Conti DWS Extreme on my 2000 996, I love them! Great wear, very quiet, great handling. I have over 20,000 miles on them and plenty of tread to go. Got them at Tire Rack.

Rob