Source for Tyres - 225/45/R17

[JonFB]

Hi Peeps.

Finally took the plunge and bought some 17" MB alloys for my W203 estate. Now I've come to look about for tyres and really am clueless.

Ran out of money so really only want to spend about £200 on four new or used tyres. My trustworthy local garage can get me some for about £65 each inc fitting but I've never heard of the brand (and since forgotten it).

Should I use eBay to source some second hand Continentals or should I try another source for new (blackcircle or mytyres.co.uk etc).

Have searched a bit on the net but when you've never heard of any of the brands it makes it kinda tricky. Maybe I'll just get the local ones as it would be easier.

Or there are some called "Colway" on eBay (item 140107570162) which are just down the road from me... http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/4-x-Brand-New...62QQihZ004QQcategoryZ9891QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem and they are currently VERY cheap.

OHHHHHHHH - Just seen these http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/4x-CONTINENTA...29QQihZ017QQcategoryZ9891QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem - Which may be worth a punt (say £230 tops)...

What do you think is the best thing for me to do? I only do about 15k miles a year, mostly with the car unladen on A roads - so don't need anything fancy!

Thanks for your help.



Jon

 

[brandwooddixon]

I've used Blackcircles myself - their prices are pretty good.
It's worth checking out their agent in your area though. I made the mistake of selecting one which was in a peugeot dealership. They just put the car in their standard workshop - 4 tyres required 4 hours to fit!

I'd suggest going for one based at a proper tyre fitters.

Main point to remember is to make sure that the tyres are the correct speed and weight rating (or better) otherwise if you have a prang your insurance could use it as an excuse not to pay out. Oh and you'll probably have to mention to them that you've changed the wheels too.

 

[Parrot of Doom]

Tyres are a critical part of your car. You shouldn't be skimping on them, or you'll rue that decision when you find yourself embedded in that wall on a damp day.

Don't buy cheap makes, and don't buy second-hand. You have no idea how old they are, and how they've been stored.

My advice is to hunt around, but stick with Michelin or Continental. FWIW I like Continentals.

 

[JonFB]

Thanks Guys.

Heeded some of your advice! Bought some Continentals "Sport Contact 2s" with 6mm tread from a decent eBay seller (2000 feedback plus).

If they don't last, they don't last - but at least I have heard of the brand!

Will also ensure I notify the ol insurance company that I've moved up to 17" - Thanks for the tip.

Hoping the ride won't be too badly compromised - but may also let the chiropractor know of the switch to low profile tyres in case I have to be winched from the car and have walking ability returned after a quick spinal click!

Many many thanks for the help.



Jon