New Tires / Tiger Paws (?)

[Serenity Mazda]

Hello Everyone,

I have posted here a few times before. Thanks in advance for the advice, these forums have always been helpful!

Last year I purchased a used 2010 Mazda 3 i Touring. It had two different sets of tires. The rears were the original Bridgestone tires and the fronts had been replaced with Uniroyal TigerPaw AS65s. The last owner didn't tell me EXACTLY when the front tires were replaced, but during the inspection the mechanic noted they looked brand new, so I'd say they have between 10k-15k miles on them as of right now. The Bridgestones have 55k miles on them and while they still have some tread left it is getting low and they are showing signs of cupping.

My question is this: should I JUST replace the rear tires and get two more TigerPaw AS65s? Or should I take this opportunity to replace all four tires with something a little nicer?

Also - do I need H-rated tires on this Mazda 3? The TigerPaws are T-rated.

I looked at Consumer Reports review of the TigerPaw Touring tires, and while they thought they were ok they were rated poorly for handling, which is unfortunate because I purchased the Mazda for its handling (I used to own Audis before the maintenance costs became too high). I don't, however, take the car out on the track nor do I do performance driving. Mostly just everyday driving with a little bit of enjoyment our of the cars nimble handling.

Any advice would be appreciated! Especially if anyone has had experience with TigerPaw tires.

[Scot]

I have been told a few times never to run different tires. Not really sure why but that's what I have been told. I would say if you got the cash grab all new. Hold onto the tigers for back up.




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[3i2011]

replace them all. Whats your climate? We'll be glad to recommend good, affordable tires. Conti DW's or Hankook V12 Evo are popular on here for summer. Conti DWS's or Hankook V4 ES for all season seem to be popular.

[199027]

Im running 2 different all seasons right now. Nothing wrong with it. At least not that I notice. Ride is the same and mpg is the same. Just make sure they are the exact same specs

[wingzero_]

We had this discussion before as long a it is a similar compound tire I don't think it makes too much difference. I am sure science says otherwise. But personally I gave done it and well prob do it on a cheap car again.

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[blefevre]

It sounds like you are just driving the car around with little "performance" goals. In that case you might not notice a difference in the driving.

For these cars it won't matter if you have different tires, however it is far from ideal. Each tire make and model has different characteristics. The grip level is different, the sidewall stiffness is different which leads to different response in handling, the tread design is different which behaves differently in wet, dry, and snow conditions. Basically as you take a turn, drive straight, in the rain, each tire wants to do something different then the other tire.

If you can swing it then definitely get some new and better tires, but it is not necessary.

[Serenity Mazda]

Thanks for the replies everyone.

I just wanted to clarify, either way I will be getting matched tires.

Option 1: Replace two tires and match the slightly used TigerPaw AS65s that are already on the car. Thus I would have four TigerPaw AS65s.

Option 2: Since I've already put 10-15k miles on the TigerPaws, I could just replace all four tires with something different.

The only reason I'm hesitant about the TigerPaws is because the few reviews I've read say they are rather below average tires, especially in handling. And while I'm not a performance driver I did get the car because it had a high rating for handling and it seems unfortunate to spend the next 30k-50k miles on subpar tires (if they really are subpar).

More Background:
I do live in Minnesota so all-season tires are a must. I'd love to get winter tires but I simply cannot afford the upfront costs. I'm ideally looking at a tire that costs around $100 a tire or less. I do need to consider my budget in the situation but at the same time I'm okay with spending a bit of money to avoid the cheapest solution.

So my question is, with the background and two options listed above, what would you guys recommend?

[blefevre]

For all seasons that will see snow I would highly recommend the Conti Extremecontact DWS. They will preform well in the snow for all seasons, while giving a good ride and above average handling for all seasons. They are over $100 each, but the tires are the most important thing keeping you and your car in control. Search tirerack for their professional reviews, they are really helpful. Uniroyal is known for discount tires....nothing more.

[HJLee]

if you are hesitant in any way, just get 4 new tires and sell the other 3 to recoupe some of the cost. Nothing worse than feeling uneasy driving your car.

BTW,

Hankook V4 ES goes for $106/tire right now at tire rack
Continential DWS $131/tire at tire rack

[Serenity Mazda]

Hey Everyone!

Thanks for all the advice. I had to take a short break in my tire search, life just got busy. I'm looking at purchasing tires within the next week (maybe by the end of the weekend).

I have decided to replace all 4 tires instead of just getting two new TigerPaw AS65. I really really like the look of the DWS tires, unfortunately I'm really on a tight budget and will barely be able to afford 4 new tires. Right now I'm looking at these two models:

Kuhmo Ecsta 4X
~$530 after installation with a rebate from a local tire place and a Kuhmo rebate.
-40,000 mile warranty

Bridgestone Turenza w/ Serenity Plus
~$530 fully installed with a rebate special grand opening deal from Tires Plus in my area and buy one get one free
-80,000 miles warranty

Thoughts? I live in Minnesota so I need a good balance of performance (zoom, zoom) and winter traction.

Thanks!