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ricardo's avatar
ricardo
Explorer
Nov 16, 2013

Toad Tire Troubles

I have a 2008 GMC Envoy that I have towed since 2008. The first 2 years behind a Revolution LE and since 2010 behind the Tradition. Same tow bar for both. Last year after 40,000 driven miles and approximately 40,000 towing miles it was time to get new tires. For me it was a know brainer I wanted to replace them with the same brand due to what I thought was very good performance. On went new Firestones same as OE and off I went. To stay brief they started cupping almost immediately. The car was aligned when first mounted and rechecked with rotation as well as thorough suspension check. The cupping continued to occur. Due to towing Firestone will only offer replacement at cost approx. 600.00 total. Of course I have no plans to use Firestone again but the original tires had worn so well I was wondering if anyone else had a similar experience. I can't believe the car/coach is the problem as no other changes have occured. Any thoughts other than poor tire quality. Thanks

8 Replies

  • Perhaps the alignment was (is) faulty...that is the only change to the suspension components you mention.
  • If they continued to wear the same tires after rotation I would suspect defect in tires.
  • The only real change noted was having a new alignment done and an area of suspicion if I'm understanding correctly and doubt seriously if the newer tires are of lesser quality. In fact, I would expect the them to be better. I do know that my OEM BFG replacements on my F-150 ride and handle better than the originals.
  • I would suggest getting your towbar checked/serviced. If it has started to pull unevenly, which could be caused by several issues, that could cause the issue you're having.

    Jim
  • You don't say how many total miles are on the Envoy, both towing and not towing. Bad shocks/struts will cause "cupping". This occurs because the tire does not maintain contact with the road surface. Some tire designs are more prone to "cupping' than other tires.

    Ray
  • Running Firestone tires with no problem. Both toad and MH.
    Could it be a different style tread? Tire pressure?