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I posted recently about my worn Yokohama Avid W4s on my 06 9-3 Aero. They had feathered or cupped a bit on the outer edges of the tread, but otherwise wore evenly, are just past 30k miles and are at something under 4/32nds of tread. I replaced them yesterday, at my dealership, with Continental Extreme DWS. Here are some observations:
- Had 4-wheel alignment done with tire replacement, and found toe-in out of spec. This no doubt contributed to the problem with the Yokohamas, although I'd had the wheels aligned when the Yokos were fairly new. Only the front wheels were out, so dealer charged me only for 2-wheel alignment.
- I chose the Continentals after doing research on Tire Rack. While there were high ratings for both the Yokohama Avid ENvigors (successor to W4s) and Goodyear Eagle GT, the uer ratings were highly variable with favorable and unfavorable extremes. The Continentals had fewer reports, but were highly consistent in their high ratings for the tire. Also, the Conti's are rated at 50k miles.
- I bought from my dealer. Price was about $156 each+ $10 road hazard warranty. By my calculation, the same tire from Tire Rack would have been net $20 or so cheaper per tire after accounting for shipping, higher road hazard warranty charge, and higher installation charge by their authorized installers. For a premium of $80 or so, my tire warranty remains with my dealer, and I have "one stop shopping" for all services. Fortunately, we have an outstanding Saab dealer in Central IL.
- Driving impressions: Clearly an improvement over worn Yokos, with car as quiet as new. On-center steering feel is good; can't quite determine if tires are as communicative as OEM Conti's or the Yokos when new. I'll put on about 400 mi this weekend to Chicago and home, so will have a better idea. Initial impression is favorable overall, and a litle testing on the way home from the dealership showed good response and grip in cornering and braking, although I didn't approach autocross limits.
- Total price was $913 for the four tires. That included tax, road hazard, valve stems, mounting & balancing,alignment(road wheel balancer)+ required disposal and environmental fees ... and replacement of my lug nut covers which had melted. Service advisor put that down to "spirited driving;" unlikely, really, but good for my reputation.
I will do an updated assessment later, when I've got a few miles on, and some experience in more weather and road conditions. The tires are rated as ultra-high performance all-season, and were winners in Tire Rack's Alaskan tests. Strong user reviews for wet performance. We'll see. In the meantime, I recommend them as worth considering for 9-3's with 235/45X17 configuration.
SEN
posted by 72.34....
, Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:55:19
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