From what I've heard, Discount Tire is so-so. It depends on the shop. I'd personally watch every move they make. Mag wheel machine, proper balancing, and I'd check the tire pressure with my own gauge when they were done. Also, you may want to find out the proper torque specs for the lug nuts and have them mount the tires to spec as opposed to just raming them on there. I always did that with the S2000. Another thought to add...when it comes to tires, I have found it worth the extra $100 or so for the proper rated tire from a reliable manufacturer. I'm not sure which tires come OEM from Lexus, but I'd bet that the OEM are quality tires.

Don't forget the alignment. Again, I'd watch them closely. I've learned from experience not to settle for "well, it is in the green which is acceptable". If one wheel is in the green to the right and the other in the green to the left, I found it makes a difference in handling.

 

Is the head supposed to be completely covered? Or just partially? If it's only partially, it looks like you're still good to me...

 

First off, 06Lex, from those pix your tires don't look bad. W/out seeing all 4 and how each is wearing, looks like you have time and don't need to panic. Regarding a tire shop, check out Tire Rack, they have recommended installers in every city. Pick the top 5 that are closest to you, call each one and speak to the manager. Ensure that they can handle the Tpms, 18" alloy rims & 40 series hi perf tires. As for tires, definitely don't skimp, IMHO tires are the only contact b/w the car and the road, so you'd want the best available for your specific driving habits/style . . .

 

it's down to the core! go replace it now!

if you keep on driving, the core will wear out and the tire will eventually explode......

 

i know they are capable to do TPMS stuff but i dont think they do alignment.....

 

if the top of lincoln's head shows on the penny test, you need new tires.

if the top of lincoln's head is covered, you're still good.

and if the steel belts are showing (a la Hartawan's), you're past due for new tires.

Hartawan> you need an alignment job. that right there's uneven wear...

 

My car is bone stock, non sport package. About 2 months ago it started showing and my wheel shop told me that the rims I ordered was coming in about a week so I didn't bother to change. Unfortunately, that didn't happen and there was a big problem.
So I reordered different rims that would only take 1 month to wait, so I decided to wait and not drive the IS that much (only about 300 miles in the past 4 months). Rims should be coming soon.

 

Agreed. I've received good prices and good advice from the Tire Rack. Plus they help support many online car forums, including (I think) Club Lexus.

 

Your alignment is screwed up. If you don't have it checked, that'll happen to your new tires. Take it in.

 

I agree. I would use those through the summer and change them out for the fall.

 

Damn! Mine, too. I've been lazy when checking my tires, but your picture made me actually *turn* the wheels and check again. Can't upload a pic right now, for some reason, but my right front looks just like yours, Hartawan! Have you checked the price of an alignment at Lexus dealers, yet? Guess I'll get all new tires, now, too.