Scenario - and thanks in advance for any input.
Have to replace OEM tires on my Highlander and considering two options and have to take into account the factory TPMS system. I am not considering getting an additional set of rims, just the tires:
1. Nokian WR GC SUV tires - Cost per tire including install = $412 - Total cost: $1648 (kal tire prices)
Pro:
Install once and leave on with expected lfetime of 4 years.
Have snowflake sysmbol on them and better performance in snow than an all season tire.
Con:
Compromise vs a direct winter or all season tire
Cost to replace 2 if I get a non-repairable flat
2. Buy a seperate set of all seasons and dedicated winter tires. Cost is about $200 per tire (Costco prices). Total cost for 8 tires = $1,600.
Pro:
- Tires better suited to seasonal driving and temperatures
- longer lifetime expectancy becuase i'm switching out tires (expect winters to last 4 seasons and all seasons to last 5-6 seasons).
- Same cost for tires initially without the compromise in performance.
Cons:
- Will cost about $400 per year ($200 each time), I have to switch out the tires (Spring and Winter) and taking into account cost of parts for TPMS system each time (was told this could be $25 per wheel).
- Factory wheels will get scratched with tire replacement happening 2x per year
What would you do? And i'm open to options I may not have thought of...