Hi, I have a 2023 RX 350 premium + and at 26,000 miles my mechanic recommended changing two of the tires that were most worn. The factory tires would be a total of $500 but he said I could choose an offbrand for $350 for two. He did say that the quality and road noise could be increased with the cheaper tires. Thoughts? Recommendations?
(also I really think it’s ridiculous to have to change the tires at that mileage!!). Update: I do rotate the tires every 5000 miles with the oil change. But I do think it’s slightly out of alignment, and do plan to get an alignment done when I get the tires changed.

 

Have the tires been rotated every 5k miles as per the Lexus recommended service intervals? If so, I'd be worried that the alignment has been knocked out of true.

If you like the current tire, I would just get a pair of those. Otherwise, I'd replace the entire set. I would not recommend a different brand or model of tire if only replacing two

 

Why cheap out on tires??

 

You've already spent the $350. So it's only another $150 for quality.

 

Too bad we cannot delete post on this forum.

 

You need 2 quality new tires and a 4 wheel alignment. I’ve always considered OEM tires to have been good if they can last 30k. But, even if you did rotate them every 5K one could get far less mileage if they had been out of alignment. At this stage and with this many miles on them, I would just replace all 4 of them.

 

The OE Bridgestones made it to 35k on our RX450h+ with 5k rotations, but had inside edge wear from the alignment getting knocked out of spec. They could have easily made it to the 40k they are rated for if not for the alignment.

 

My 2023 RX Luxury was equipped with Goodyear. I replaced all 4, with like Goodyears, at 40k miles. They were about $385 each. The old ones still had good tread but I had a tire vandalized in a parking lot. I know to replace in pairs but, I decided I might as well just replace all 4. Nobody in the area had 21-inch Goodyears or Michelins, so I had to wait 2-3 days to get them.

I prefer a softer tire, even if they don't wear as well. Some people prefer a firmer tire. It's all a matter of personal preference and driving style.

 

There were three different manufacturers for the factory tires in 2023.

 

Geez, we're driving Lexus, not Nissan, please get good tires. I always get the best tire for the application. They last for a couple of years at least. $150 won't even buy a steak dinner for 2 these days vs. something you and your family are riding on. The only time I've gotten cheap tires is on lease turn in

 

Honestly, 4 years in and it is still mostly the OEM tires plus some all seasons tires like the CC2 from Michelin that are available. Still not getting away too cheap at least for 21" tires although the OEM Goodyear Eagle Touring are $189 each at Discount Tire. They don't appear to have a treadwear mileage warranty interestingly.

 

That 'best tire' opinion is a variable.


EG, the manufacturer often fits low rolling resistance tires. These provide better MPG on the government tests, but won't last as long.

A 'performance' tire with a 200 tread wear rating is going to grip MUCH better, but will be dangerous under 40F...and again, the more frequent replacements will increase the cost of ownership.

The 'knobby' tires could look cool, but will reduce MPG and be noisy after a while.

 

FWIW, in my lifetime I've purchased over 15 new vehicles. It's been a rare occasion when I've got more than 20,000 miles from a factory tire. It's my humble opinion that factory tires are made with a softer rubber compound so the vehicle rides quieter and handles better out of the showroom. After that.....you're on your own.

 

I always go for the comfort/quiet tire instead of harder riding tire that never wears out.

 

Has any one looked at Yokohama Geolandar X_CR. Tire Rack has them for $318.99 each for a 50k mile tire . While the Bridgestone Alenza are $318.23 for the 40K mile tire which are on my 350h now,