Tire replacement...
 

I have a 2017 GLS 550 with 23K miles on it. Since 20K, the stock Continental Cross Contact UHPs do not drive well & can't be balanced because they're cupped. I'm pretty unhappy that I need to buy tires at about 25,000 miles. I've had other vehicles recently that went 70K on the stock tires. Apparently, only a couple companies make tires in 295/40/R21. Continental made a tire called Extreme Contact that had a 50K tread guarantee on it. But now, I see on Tire Rack that they've changed to ExtremeContact DWS 06.

Has anyone installed a set of these. If so, please share your thoughts about them.

Welcome to the "Buy tires every 20K to 25K" club. The GLS is a heavy vehicle and you'll find that you will be buying new tires often. This is my third GL/GLS and I found that a quality alignment is needed every time I purchase new tires. I stick with the OEM Conti's as they provide the best ride. A set of 4 with an alignment ran me $1,400 two months ago.

I am extremely happy with the DWS06 on my GL63. Goes and stops in snow. Handles great in dry and wet. Quiet and smooth. I put them on day 1 and pulled the summer tires off (they are still sitting in my garage).

If you live in an area with more than occasional light snow I would not use the DWS. Its a very good all season but no replacement for dedicated snow tires.

I haven't had issues with up to 6 inches of snow, but we don't get more than that very often. I do agree that dedicated snow tires are a better solution in heavier environments.

Hi everyone, I have an 18 GLS450 - 16K miles and I have bare tires! I have the standard Continental 4x4 Contact 275/55 R19. We almost got into a major accident because we were hydroplaning on the PA turnpike today. I was floored - got home tires to have virtually no tread. Is this a common issue? I think 16K miles is ridiculous to spend 1K plus on new tires. I did check my tire pressure (came directly from the dealer) I have never changed it - I am at 43 for the front, and 49 (left rear) and 46 (right rear). Pressure gauge in the gas tank reads 32psi for a normal load and 41 for a max load.

Thoughts?

Thanks, Kristen

The OEM tires went 34k miles. We replaced them with 4 Michelins from Costco which were too good to pass up at $1000 all-in (including install, road hazard warranty, taxes, etc.) So far great handling and traction though have not done any serious winter driving yet. My wife blew out a tire when she hit a curb and costco replaced 2 of them (to keep them matched on the axel). Costco has limited selection but is the way to go if you want Michelin or Bridgestone.

Hi Kristen, I had the same problem you did. The original tires only lasted about 20K. I also found out the tires were bad during the winter when my wife couldn't stop on 2 inches on snow. We switch to Michelin Pilot sports, and we love them. The ride is smoother, and quieter then the continentals. we have 11000 miles on them so far and they still look great. Hope this Helps.