Writing about the
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 given
61% (225-45-18-W)
Driving on
mostly motorways for 10000
average miles
I've always fitted Michelin tires - I've gone through Energy Savers, Pilot Primacys, Primacy HPs, PS3s in all weathers. As a fleet driving instructor, I always fit what I consider to be the best tires to my cars. However, after running Pilot Sport 4s for the past year, this will be the last time I buy Michelin.
I had four PS4s fitted in February last year. They arrived with only 7.4mm tread. When I contacted Michelin to ask why they didn't have 8mm tread like every other Michelin tire I had used, they denied that my previous tires had such tread, and offered no explanation as to the reduction in tread (I think it's called shrinkflation!)
After only 1400 miles, the front tires were worn down to 6mm. After a year and only 10000 miles, the front tires were worn below 2mm. I made a warranty claim and Michelin, without any hesitation, replaced the front tires. After 1000 miles the new tires are worn down to 6.4mm, so I expect them to wear out just as soon. This is on a Mazda 6 diesel estate which is used mostly on motorways and A roads, and rarely above the speed limit.
In comparison, the previous Goodyear Eagle As2s lasted 17000 miles, on the same car with the same driving style. The Eagles were quieter ( the Michelins have a slight howl when cruising), more comfortable, just as good in the dry and superior when worn in the wet. When worn below 2mm, the Eagles still cut through standing water at motorway speeds and felt safe in the wet. When worn to the same depth, the Michelins provided no sense of straight line grip.
In the Pilot Sport 4, it appears that Michelin is manufacturing a soft compound tire in order to win tire tests ( which they often do) with no consideration for the longevity of their tires, which was for so long a strength of Michelin tires. The wear is almost as bad as what I have experienced from Continental tires.
Michelin tires simply do not merit their premium price any more. I will be fitting Goodyears next time, as I have found they are slightly better tires and better value.