2008 MB GL CDI 350 CDI: Went throught the factory installed Continetal tires in 18,000 miles Michelin replacement tires laste abotu 13,000 miles. I can not belive that this is expected. Obviously it is not the tires falt. Waht can I do?

Two thoughts:
1; Your tires may not be correct for the vehicle. Look at the tire, get the ratings off of them, and look that up on the Michelin website. Your tires may not be able to handle the extra weight. The rating should be something like "Load Rating B" or something like that.
2: While looking at the tires, they should also tell you the minimum and maximum tire air pressure.

I had the same problem with my new Defenders. Turns out I had a bad batch of tires. Not only had vibration, it caused the car to pull. I had the tires tested for roundness, and three were out of round. Additionally, two of the tires were causing what is known as radial bias pull, which made the car seem like it was out of alignment. Three alignments, four rebalances and rotations later, and with still a lot of of resistance, they replaced all four tires as defective, and the problems ALL went away. You need new tires.

The Continental ExtremeContact DWS tires have great handling characteristics, quieter than the Michelin and more durable tread. Will easily get 2x the tread life over the Michelin.

Tires offer a number of trade-offs. Loud tires provide superior tread wear and a harsher ride, are loud. Soft tires provide a smooth ride, quiet operation and usually fewer miles.

Please go see your Goodyear or Firestone or Continental (or other major brand) tire professional and discuss your concerns with him or her to find the best tire for your application and driving style.

Thanks for your interest in FixYa.com

Tires have many variables that affect drivability and safety...Depending on how you use your Uplander...like most things...you get what you pay for...It is usually best to stay with original tire size...ie...225/60/R16..(This confirms speedometer accuracy and tire wheelwell clearances). Comparison by mileage warranty will help assure good quality. All season tread pattern is best overall...For best ride quality the Michelin Harmony is hard to beat. Yokohama tires have proven to be great performers, but do not ride as soft as the Michelin...Goodyear design and quality is not the leader as they used to be in the 1980's...still OK but harsh ride and poor performance in slippery weather...Bridgestone is good also, but not as good as the Michelin or Yokohama...You will be pleasantly surprised with either the Michelin or Yokohama...Tire sidewalls are required to show the USDT rating for temperature and treadwear comparison...Last but just as important is tire air pressure...35 lbs psi is best for everyday driving, handling, and tread wear...Hope this helps.

Hello,
I do agree with the person who mentioned
" Tire Noise". A few moments spent with a knowledgeable tire dealer will help
in your choice when it comes time for replacement,
Enjoy your Benz. A little homework will quiet it down real nice.
Wayne

these cars came from the factory with a michelin energy. this is somewhat of an overkill performance oriented tire, and does not necessarily give you a good bang for the buck money to longevity. if you are not driving this car like mario andretti, i would recommend another michelin tire called the "hydroedge". excellent ride quality, very long life. certainly not the cheapest option, but will almost certainly last twice as long as most inexpensive tires.

PUSH LITTLE BUTTON ON ODOMETER

For a GS350 AWD : MICHELIN P225/50R17/XL 98V.

Michelin is the safest, "quietest" and best tire on the market. Once you get past the sticker shock the longevity and ride performance far outlasts anyting else on the market.

If you are not in a climate that has snow, choose the Primacy HP series 225/50R 17 94V.

Either will do but go Michelin for your vehicle.( no...I don't work for Michelin...just bought alot of them over the years)

15k and they are shot is terrible. Toyo did have lots of trouble with these tires. Check this site for more info-sounds like you will have to fight like heck to get them to do anything though. Good luck'
http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=304744