2007 GL320 tire discussion
 

I love this vehicle however, it is greasy as hell in slightly wet or snowy/ice roads. For all, suspension, links, etc. all updated and fine (I have 210,000 miles so lot's replaced or updated). Currently, riding on 255/60/R19 Nokian all-seasons. What would you recommend for a studless winter tire and/ or size recommendations. Thank you.

Interesting that you're running smaller tires than stock. It's not a huge difference so that's not the problem - just curious. There must be an issue with those particular tires - or maybe they're just really old - the vehicle, itself, is very stable. Or maybe the tread is really low?

Searching will get you lots of threads about tires - do that. Keep in mind that much of this is opinion based, though. But Toyo CUV's were very good (I had a set), but they don't make them any more - not sure of what the replacement is. I know have different brand and am happy with their wet performance, as well. Michelins are always good - just a bit pricey.

However, none of what I said was a "winter" tire. You originally talked about wet performance but then went on to say something about a winter tire. Which are you looking for? They're really two different things. FYI, I've been happy with both my sets in snowy conditions, as well. If you're looking for a true winter tire, I've used Blizzaks on my BMW and am very impressed with them. They definitely live up to their hype.

DennisG01, apologies for the confusion. I live in Upstate NY and especially at this time of year you do not know what you are running into water, ice, snow, mix etc. You are correct about the sizing (I think two OEM options were available at the time and the original owner purchased the smaller set). I typically average about 28-30K/set with rotation/balancing/alignment. If I slowed down a bit (corners and straights) I might get a bit more. I have been running the all season Nokian Hakkapelitta's for 3 sets now.
I am due for a rotation and have roughly 12K left on the front and 15k on the rear. I am considering getting a dedicated set of snows and "all season" tires. I posted here as it is specific to the GL class. Thank you for your response.

Ah, gotcha. I didn't realize there were two sizes available - you could be right. That's what I do with my BMW - two sets - one Blizzak and one regular, all season.

I believe it must be an issue with the tires or you have a suspension issue. What do you mean by you have updated the suspension? My truck was squirrelly (in Summer) when I needed rear hydraulic shocks. I also replaced tie rods and bushings and truck was back to normal.

Regarding tires, I currently run Bridgestone Revo 3 on factory 20s. They have done very well in all weather.

I also have a set of Blizzaks on factory 18s. They haven't been on the vehicle in about 5-years, but the truck is a tank when they are on. Chicago winters, so they got a workout when on. Weather doesn't typically justify putting them on now that I'm on Long Island.

I have been using Nokian winter tyres on various vehicles for over 10 years now, cannot recommend them highly enough. I think there is a big difference between All Season and "proper" Winter tyres.

Hopefully just tires! I've replaced the airmatic (pumps/bags to an after market higher quality), both front control arms/tie rods (@205K), both rear level links (commonly seize in Northern Climes-road salt use). I haven't replaced rear shocks but I don't "think" that is the issue. Thank you for the tire recommendation. FYI-if your Jonesing for a deep dish on LI try Umberto's in Wantagh.

I run Goodyear Wranglers on the 18” standard wheels - very happy. While snow isn’t my primary problem except for one week a year in the Puget Sound, they have great snow traction, are ok in muddy grass, and also don’t explode at 120mph.

I forget to get back to you about what I have on the car, now - they're Kumho Crugen HP71's.

I looked back at what you wrote about the greasy thing and that this is the third set of Nokians that you're on. Is it a safe assumption that the greasy thing is new? I mean, if it was an issue with the first set, then you wouldn't have bought two more sets, right? That info leads us back to an issue with the car or the tires, themselves... yes, hopefully the tires! It doesn't sound like they're excessively old - are you sure about the amount of tread depth left?