We got our X-Xrail last in September of '05. We got dedicated snows that December before any real snow had fallen.
So I can't really say how good or bad the OEM's would be in the snow first-hand.
I've never had snow tires before in my life but this time it was different.
Back then my wife was pregnant (our daughter is now 7 months old). It's amazing how things like that put you in a "Safety 1st" frame of mind.
Even from a cost standpoint it's tough to argue against getting dedicated snows.
When you have them you effectively extend the life of your OEM tires and nice wheels so the only thing you're really out is the cost of the steel wheels.
And if you buy from Green and Ross (I didn't) getting them switched over every Fall and Spring is free for life as it's considered a "rotation".
One other thing: If you get into a fender bender because of your all seasons what you pay out on your deductible would probably have paid for snows anyway.
If you dont mind the road noise, Nokian is one of your best bets. Search around in auto forums and you will read a lot of praise for this brand. They are made by Finland-ers and they pratically live in snow 9months of the year.
The famous brands like michelin or bridgestone are so overrated that you're most likely paying for advetising..
what tires and size did you go with? Who did you end up buying them from?
Cooper Artic Claws. Same size as OEM. They're definitely a lower priced, less known tire. Took them on the advice of the tire guy.
At the time I wasn't convinced something like a Nokian was really necessary for the GTA. North Bay, maybe. The Nokian's do have a great reputation but that never comes cheap, does it?
The Coopers were fine for us last year.
We got them at 2nd Time Around in Scarborough (who deal in new and used tires).
Cooper Artic Claws. Same size as OEM. They're definitely a lower priced, less known tire. Took them on the advice of the tire guy.
At the time I wasn't convinced something like a Nokian was really necessary for the GTA. North Bay, maybe. The Nokian's do have a great reputation but that never comes cheap, does it?
The Coopers were fine for us last year.
We got them at 2nd Time Around in Scarborough (who deal in new and used tires).
Well for my Corolla, it was definitely cheaper than Micheline and Goodyear for sure. Last year my garage recommeneded them to me, i did qutie a bit of reserach before i made a decison, mainly cux of the low price, it made me suspcious. i thot they were trying to pull on a scam on me or sthg...so turned out great, cept for roadnoise..
So since you can get a buffet with a mcds price tag, why not go for it ? There isnt such thing as its too good for a snow tire....lolz
Well for my Corolla, it was definitely cheaper than Micheline and Goodyear for sure. Last year my garage recommeneded them to me, i did qutie a bit of reserach before i made a decison, mainly cux of the low price, it made me suspcious. i thot they were trying to pull on a scam on me or sthg...so turned out great, cept for roadnoise..
So since you can get a buffet with a mcds price tag, why not go for it ? There isnt such thing as its too good for a snow tire....lolz
How much where the tires? Where did you purchase them from and what is the size?
How much where the tires? Where did you purchase them from and what is the size?
Exact prices i dont know, cux my dad took care of everything..
as for the size, it was standard 15" corolla tires, no more no less...we had our own Steelies..
We purchased it from a garage in Thornhill, in the same plaza of Greenbay tires. But now our mechanic has moved down to Don mills with a new garage.
my recommendation is...go for Nokian, EVEN if it does cost a lil more than michelin..(but most probably wont)at least you know ure not payin for advertising and overated reviews. Ive said it and i'll say it again..theres no such thing as too good of a snow tire..
#3 - avoiding having to stretch the tires every time they are mounted and dismantled from the rim (not good for the tires)
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I used BF Goodwrench Winter Slaloms for the past two winters (tires and rims from my maxima) and had great luck with them. I am a michelin person by heart but these tires worked great at getting me to the ski hill every weekend not matter what the conditions.
I need new winter tires this year and have priced out the following (four tires, installation, taxes and levys included):
1. BF Goodwrench Winter Slaloms $621
2. Michelin Xice $789
3. Winter King (noname made by michelin) $502
I am likely going to go back to the BF Goodwrench, due to my good experience with them and the mileage I drive. I drive a good 5000 km a month and the Michelin Xice are too soft to give me any longevity. They are great tires though, I have used blizzak and other tires for ice before. They work well, but will not give as many miles as other winter tires. I am going to compromise performance for longevity with the BF Goodwrench Winter Slaloms. I got a total of three winters on my last set.
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