Replacement Tires for 2001 SE

[Gorge]

Hello all,
I have not posted here in quite some time but, I have a new question. My 2001 SE now has about 45k miles on it and the stock Firestone tires are showing signs of dry rot (lots of surface cracks in between tread). Also, the car seems to be losing traction a bit too easily, especially during sharper turns. The car actually pushes. Has anyone else experienced this with the Firestone Affinitys and are there any good suggestions for replacements? I live in PA outside of Allentown so wet and winter driving is a big concern. Any advice would be appreciated.

Chris H.

[GTP Dad]

I have never owned the tires you are speaking of however, has the car been sitting for a while? Sometimes this can cause dry rot. If I were looking for tires I would try one of the online places like tire rack they have reviews on different tires and you can buy the one that best fits you needs. I am in the process of purchasing new tires for the upcoming winter as well. Or go to your local tire store I am sure they will be able to help you out. I live in central PA.

[Gorge]

GTP Dad,
Thanks for the response. I've been looking at the 1010tires and tirerack sites. They are definitely a good resource to help form an opinion. So far I'm looking at BF Goodrich Traction TAs and a few Michelins (harmony, pilot, etc.). I bought this car used back in February of this year ('04) with only 24k miles on it. My guess is that it just wasn't driven enough and probably sat in the sun enough to harden up the tires resulting in the surface cracking in-between the treads. As I just purchased a set of Michelins for my wife's Jeep Liberty, it may be a few more months before I pony up the $$ to replace the Bonneville's shoes. I'll see how they do in the first decent amount of snow then decide what and when to buy. I'll be sure to post what I go with and how they're doing after some mileage.

Thanks,

Chris H.

Originally Posted by GTP Dad

I have never owned the tires you are speaking of however, has the car been sitting for a while? Sometimes this can cause dry rot. If I were looking for tires I would try one of the online places like tire rack they have reviews on different tires and you can buy the one that best fits you needs. I am in the process of purchasing new tires for the upcoming winter as well. Or go to your local tire store I am sure they will be able to help you out. I live in central PA.