Adventures in tires.

Just before the latest travels I went to Discount Tire in Mankato as the tires I had only just barely passed the penny test. Unfortunately the Mankato shop only has a rather limited selection and I was stuck with the choice of delaying (not a real option), going to Discount Tire in the Twin Cities (more time and I only recall it was a royal pain to get to last time), or Goodyears then and there. I hemmed and hawed and grumbled, but since I only had one realistic choice I went with the Goodyears. I was assured that there was a 30 day time for me to "change my mind" and I could try them out and at least have decent tread for my trip.

I made the trip on the Goodyears and while they had no problems (and were quiet, I'll give them that) I felt uneasy. Today I called Discount Tire and told them to get me the tires I really wanted (which are less expensive and if I recall correctly have a slightly longer warranty). The guy I talked to seemed to have a bit of disbelief that I was simply uncomfortable with the make.

What it comes down to is that I when bought the car, it had Goodyear (Integrity) on it. They weren't very good and didn't last long at all. While "Integrity tires are crap" may be fairly well-known, the first impression I came away with is, "Goodyear makes crap." Maybe the ComforTread or whatever they are are fine, but it doesn't matter. I don't have confidence in them just because of the name on the sidewall. I recall the earlier Goodyears and as a result of that experience I have no confidence in any Goodyear product now. As is said, "There's no second chance to make a good first impression."