I must admit, not exactly an expert with snow tires (or cars in general ) I own a 04 G35 coupe which is the only car I use all these years. The mileage is roughly around 45k. These set of pirelli (spelling?) snow tires were bought on the first winter. Although sometimes I do forget to take the snow tires out until late summer so some unnecessary usage might be accounted for.

What do you guys think? Does it sound reasonable that I need new snow tires? I know its not exactly accurate without seeing the tires themselves, but at least I would have an idea whether this is a reasonable thing for them to request.

P.S. This is the willowdale dealer.
P.P.S. They also mentioned something about a belt that has cracked? They said to replace it would be 200ish, and if I dont replace it, it might break and will affect A/C and various other stuff. Does this sound reasonable too?

Thank you!

 

You can probably judge better by looking at the tires yourself since you aren't giving us photos and/or actual mileage on them to consider. Look for the wear bar indicators.

It sounds a bit early on the belt and pretty expensive too but you can probably have a look to see if it is dry/cracked or worn. It's not an area to scrimp on if it looks questionable. My '04 has 31K and the belt is fine.

Driving on winter tires in the summer months reduces your car handling performance and significantly shortens their life.

 

It's possible that your winter tires are worn enough to be replaced, since you mention that you do drive on them into the summer. I'd say find a good aftermarket set. Avoid the dealer for that--you can get them much cheaper somewhere else...

 

If pics are available, please provide a shot of your tires.

I just had all my belts replaced but that was at 98k. I would get another opinion from another shop.

Like RBull stated, don't be driving on your snows in the warmer weather. You're just looking at premature wear....just a waste of $$$ on your end.

If you are looking for a good independent shop, check out www.simoneperformance.com. He( Vic) is in Newmarket. Very reasonable, great work and a great guy to deal with. He is highly recommended around here.

 

Does 300 a tire sounds about right?

 

What brand of tires? Is this including rims?

Sounds a little on the pricey side. I would shop around for a better deal.

Have you considered purchasing from the US?

 

Just the tires, 300 a piece. He said I only have to replace the back two. Is there a place you recommand where I can get cheaper? The dealer said the tires are yokohama I think. Any help? I'm from Toronto

 

yokohama's use a technology much like the bridgestones. that special tread comprises only 50% of the total depth of the tire and they should be replaced sooner than other winter tires.

winter tires also need more tread depth to deal with snow.

on top of that, winter tires are made of a very soft compound to be able to stay soft in very cold weather, driving them in the warm temps will cause them to wear quite quickly.

all these really do point to them probably needing a replacement earlier than you expected.

 

Did the dealer say how much tread is left on the front tires?

IMHO, I would be replacing the entire set including a set of dedicated rims strictly for the winter season.

You will pay the most going through a dealer. If you are not willing to travel, you will have to shop around the local shops in T.O.

Try Steelcase Tire and Mag.

Personally, I went to a Firestone garage and purchased my snows for my sedan. Many of us here are using Bridgestone Blizzaks. I picked mine up for just over $1000 including a set of steel rims, mounted and balanced....mind you that was 5 years ago.

 

Or buy a nice used set of rims w/ snow tires from someone on here. You'll save a ton of money, and if you get a good set, it'll last you quite a while longer. I bought mine used a year ago for $500 (rims + tires shipped) and have been happy with this setup... Good luck...