DDGS350

Hello all,
I have a question regarding the tires. I need to replace the tires on the GS350. The original tires are 245-40-18. Can I replace them with 245-45-18 tires? Will the tires hit any sides of the plastic panels when you turn the steering wheel the whole way? I just wonder if it's okay to replace them all without having any disadvantage (harmful) to the car.

Thank you for your help,

Dh.

istundra

iTrader: (2)

1st question: Are you lowered?

DDGS350

Hi,
The answer is NO, I just want to replace the tires only.... Couldn't use the summer tires in Chicago's weather.

Thank you,

Dh.

dunnojack

245 45 is not a problem.

do it.

EyeKutr

iTrader: (5)

I have it and you can see pics of my car with it, see sig. There is a bit of rubbing in the front when wheel is turned about 30 degrees, rubs on a piece of plastic, I took a heat gun to it and it is much improved. It would probably do little damage over time anyways but there you have it. I had a thread on this a while back around 6/07 when I bought new tires...

Rexus300

iTrader: (1)

I have 245/40/18 with michelin primacy MXV4. They don't rub at all during driving. Only when you turn the steering all the way to one side and reverse from a parking spot. Its very little rub.

jane12

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

passnu2

iTrader: (33)

I figured it wouldnt be a problem if you are not lowered. Probably wise with the roads as is here in IL right now.

noncom23

Rexus, my SA is recommending Primacy MXV4's for my GS. Can you review your experience please. I want something quieter and better ride. Also how they look on the car. SA says this is the only tire they stock at Plano Lexus in Dallas for my car with 18", RWD. Thx ahead!

Rexus300

iTrader: (1)

I like the Michelin Primacy MXV4 very much. Very quiet, smooth, great handling. Amazing in the snow!!! Almost better than my Audi and Mercedes in the snow with AWDs. The primacy absorbs all the bumps with confidence and makes the car feel very solid. I would recommend tire pressure of 32 or 31 PSI since 34-35 makes the car a bit rocky and stiff on some bumpy roads since these tires have a very good structure compound that allows it to last long so the tire pressure i found gave me a comfortable ride at 32 psi and it looks high compared to the other softer rubber tires at 32 so it is fine.

DO a road force balancing at your dealership to get a smooth ride also!

noncom23

Thx Rex. I am concerned about the size also. But it seems 245/45's work for you all and the dealership, so i think I will try them.

EyeKutr

iTrader: (5)

there are alot of people who figure they should be fine, you are going to rub....whatever psi you put them at...

Lexus_Star

I'm curious of this too...thinking of putting on some 245 45 18 tires to reduce the stiffness in the ride. any thoughts?

bigred88

I have the 245/45/18 michelin primacy mxv4 and they ride very smooth. very little rubbing only while backing out.After I used the heatgun like Eyekutr, there is no rubbing at all.
My car now runs very smooth with these tires.

Bavaria

I just came home after rotating the tires at 20,000 miles. I have the 18" Michelin Primacy's that came on the car, and am very impressed with all aspects of their performance. It appears they'll easily get another 20k before needing replacement. Early on I spoke with a retired tire store owner who has an IS 350 - he recommended 40 psi all around and I followed his advice, although I had reservations at first. I know the Michelin's are pricey, but feel at this point I will probably be inclined to get Primacy replacements when the time comes (IF they're still available).