Tire Rack Consumer Reviews

Initial Review, 24,000 Miles on Tires
February 01, 2012

These came with my CPO 2007 Volvo S80 3.2 FWD when I bought it from the dealer - they were brand new (245/40/R18). After 24,000 miles there is probably at least another 8 or 9 thousand miles left in them. I was so impressed with the ride quality, grip and lack of road noise that I also purchased a set for my 2005 Mini Cooper S when it needed new tires to replace the factory run-flats.

One of the things that has bothered me from day 1 is the complete lack of protection for my 18 inch Zubra alloys because the rim protection band is either tiny or non existent. 5 days after picking up the car I rubbed a kerb while parking at very low speed, a couple of weeks later my wife did the same thing! Both wheels showed quite a lot of kerb damage. Prior to this car I have never damaged an alloy on a kerb before, ever.

Last Saturday I rubbed a kerb again (24,000 miles later), probably at less than 2 miles an hour - and the side wall of the tire bubbled. Was shocked at the result. While driving the car home I could feel the vibration. Haven't had it on the freeway since - and will be getting a new set ASAP.

So I've decided to change to a set of Yokohama S.Drives, mainly because they're meant to have better rim protection, and a stronger sidewall - hopefully I won't regret it. 30 day 'test drive' promise though, so if I really hate them I will go back to the Hankooks or try something else.

Will file a review on the S.Drives once I've had a chance to check them out.