Brandon593

I own a 2003 ES300 and I'm starting my research for new tires. I have the stock rims (I attached a photo) which were standard on all 2002, 2003, and 2004 ES models. I believe they are 16" rims. I drive the car in New York, so I do need to take into account all four seasons and weather conditions I will be driving in. I hear the Michelin's are good, though pricey. I'd like a tire that's definitely good in the snow/rain, as well as one that complements the marshmallow ride of the car. I currently have Bridgestone all seasons and they're not bad, however, I feel like they don't have the best traction (although that can be because they need to be replaced by my next oil change). Any recommendations would be appreciated!

PFB

Based on the latest "Consumer Reports" tire testing, the Top Rated all season tire is the Michelin Defender at $130.00

The second Best Rated is the Continental ProContact EcoPlus at $100.00

Apart from the price, the main difference between them is that the Michelin has a much longer life, while the Continental has a better wet braking performance, better snow traction, and a more comfortable ride.

Note that these ratings apply only to those specific models. As for example, Michelin makes other models theatre not as good. Don't bother with any other makes or models.

I suppose that the Continental ProContact EcoPlus is a better choice in your case.

Phil

Chocolate

Michelins, Toyo, Hankook, Yokohama <-- all good choices.
Michelin is my first choice. Overpriced a bit but you get what you pay for.

Recommend spending a little time on TireRack and reading the reviews.

Chocolate

I hear a lot of problems with Continental tires. Not saying you would have a problem with them but there certainly seems to be a higher problem rate with them than with many other comparable brands.

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

I have a set of those Continentals on the es330 and they are great, good in snow the one or two times they've seen them (Have a set of dedicated snow tires), but I have Continentals on the GS300 and they were extremely loud.

Oro

Our 02 has Yokohama Avid Touring S on them. Shocked how good this tire is. Seattle area and the wet performance is outstanding. Summer is good, though it never gets hot here. Very few snow excursions were as good as you can expect for all season (I used to live in VT and NY and have experience here). Very long lived, too - performing great after 35/40k miles.

Downside is that on grooved or very pebbled pavement, they are a bit loud. Fresh smooth pavement, quiet. Trade off is acceptable in my book.