Tires

[Allen]

I currently have Michelin MXV4's on the E420. It came with Pirellis, 2nd set were Conti's, ( I only kept them for 12k mi, I hated them) and have enjoyed the current tire. I am wondering if any of you have tried any other Michelin models on your car and how you like them. I am curious about other Michelins and their performance and I am loyal to the brand due to past experiences with other tires. What ya think?

[OliverB]

Sherrill;
I do understand your partiality to Michelin MXV4s but perhaps you might consider the Bridgestone Turanza LS series. Go to "Tire Rack" and do a comparison of the Turanza LS H/V/Z owners surveys with the Michelin MXV4s results. One of the most diasppointing areas for the Michelin is wet performance. Many of the Bridgestone Turanza owners had the Michelin MXV4 tires first and would not buy them again. As with auto makers, tire manufacturers also don't get it right with all models of their line. I have experienced both excellent and poor performance with different models of Bridgestone, Michelin, and Continental tires. Some years ago, the tire of choice for the classic GMC Motorhome was the Michelin. Handling was good and tire wear was phenomenal, but as the miles piled up, tread separation and blow-out became commonplace. The tire just did not hold up. A set of Michelin tires on my van were one of the best I have used for such a vehicle. Being faithful to a particular manufacturer of tires may not always be the best choice for your specific vehicle. For my 300E, the next set of tires will probably be the Turanza LS series.
OliverB

[Tom Hanson]

BUY BRIDGESTONE !!!! I've never had a better all-around tire.

[Allen]

Oliver and Tom,
Thanks for the imput. Since it came from both, I was encuoraged to visit Tire Rack and check out the survey. They are rated very well. So, now I am curious.. but.. cautious. I have Michelins on everything and like them. I like a good smooth quiet ride and michey has always delivered, so therefore if I cross back over, I'll be aprehensive, but if I trust otherwise, I will break down and try them. I will admit the MXV4 is not perfect in rain after wear. I am going to look into the Turanza's.
Thanks!

[DieselDave]

I have a '95 E300 Diesel that came with Pirellis when new. they lasted about 20,000 miles. Since then, I have used MXV4s on the advice of service advisor, but have always been dissatisfied with wear and wet performance. Local tire dealer recommended BF Goodrich Traction T/As. I was skeptical at first, but their wear has been GREAT and wet performance is excellent. And they are a little less expensive than the MXV4s. Treat pattern is agressive, little like a SUV tire, but I'm sold. Next set of tires will be the same.:D

[Tom Hanson]

I've never had ANY tire as quiet or as long lasting as a Bridgestone Turanza. Ever.

[Allen]

Well, it's been a while, but here are latest developements. Last week I went to the Bridgestone dealer near my office, which I know personally. I went in and inquired about the Turanza's. He stepped out to look at my car / tire size, looked up and said " why do you want those when you have Michelin, You will not be satisfied with them" I know this fellow and trust him. His Lexus was parked beside me and he stated, "look at my tires.... Michelin and I am a Bridgestone dealer and not for much longer due to quality issues to wit he rambled on about. He has been in the tire business for 30 years.
:) So.... I remain true to Michelin once more, had them put on today, rides smooooth.
Thank you for your imput, I appreciate it as we all learn from one another. :)

[lkchris]

Local tire dealer recommended BF Goodrich Traction T/As. I was skeptical at first, but their wear has been GREAT and wet performance is excellent. And they are a little less expensive than the MXV4s. Treat pattern is agressive, little like a SUV tire, but I'm sold. Next set of tires will be the same.:D

You know of course, that Michelin owns BF Goodrich. It's their "B" brand, much as is Dunlop for Goodyear and Firestone for Bridgestone.

[Chappy]

In the past 15 years, I've tried (on my MBs): Pirelli, Yokohama, Toyo, Continental and Michelin. I'm probably what you'd call "picky" when it comes to tire balance, handling and quietness of the tires I put on my 300D (sold), 300CE and CLK.

Over the years, I've tried to penny-pinch, save-a-buck, "go cheap", etc, etc.

For me, the Michelin tires perform best. Yes, they cost more (unless you get a super deal or rebate), but I've had much less hassle with this brand than any other. My time counts for something and having to run back to the shop every time I have an issue is a waste and a bother. Plus, I've discovered how to buy performance tires really cheap (silent auctions are a gold mine! - my last set of PS2s for the AMG were just $475 shipped :eek: ), so I'm spending less now on quality tires than I could buying other brands.

At this juncture, I'll continue to go with Michelin.