tgara

I'm looking to outfit the IS250 AWD with some winter tires. The car has 225/45/VR-17 Dunlops on there now, but I can just tell they're going to be no good in the winter.

First, since our car is leased, I'm NOT planning on buying a second set of rims and TPMS sensors. Rather, I want to mount the snow tires on the existing rims. Secondly, is there any advantage to using a slightly narrower tire with the AWD (for example going from 225 to 215)?

I did a search and the Blizzak LM-25 comes up a lot, but it seemed to be attached to IS350s with RWD. What are some suggestions for a 250 AWD?

Many thanks for the input!

jacky28

i'm planning to get 205/55/R16 Michelin PA2 + steel rims (minus TPMS) for my AWD...

clubfoot

There are two reasons for installing the TPMS. If you run low profile winter tires in the snow and experience a cut tire you will at minimum, damage your rim. It actually wokrs well at catching slow leaks like nails. Also the warning lights in the dash are really annoying after a few days of driving. Just my opinion from experience.

jacky28

^ you think TPMS will work with steel rims? the tire shop (green bay tire) that i usually go to don't seem to want to install them?! i also asked speedy... they have no clue! and the dealer wants $3000 for tire + oem alloy rim + tpms + install...

if tpms works with steel rims, i'm all for it... just don't want to spend $1800 for oem alloy rims for the winter...

tgara

Anybody using Blizzak Revo 1, or Dunlop SP WinterSport 3D?

Please chime in.

Torii

I am but it hasnt snowed yet here (blizzak revo)

Jatt

Just stick some velcro on the tires

TorontoIS

I am ordering the Blizzak Revo's with my IS to be delivered next month. I'd love to hear some reports on how they are as well.

phatboyc

From what I read the top performers out here are Michelin X-Ice, Gislaved SoftFrost 2 and Nokian Hakkapeliitta RSI. The latter is what I have purchased. Can’t wait to try them. Let it snow!

http://www.consumersearch.com/www/au...fullstory.html

TorontoIS

I think the Blizzak REVO's are a newer design. From that article it doesn't look like they tested that particular model. I've heard good things about the Nokian.

phatboyc

I like the thread on those Revo’s. Less aggressive than the RSI but probably bigger contact patch for handling? What drew me to the RSI is the R rated instead of Q. Only 10 km/h difference but I’ll take it. It will be hard staying below that speed all winter.

clubfoot

$1800.00 is too high even in Canada for oem wheels should be closer to CN $1400.00. There was a group buy from Sewell at US$760.00 for all four oem wheels! If you can find steel wheels that clear the IS350 brakes then give it a shot. However, to maintain the factory balance of the car you should go staggered,...just my opinion. Check eBay, Clublexus and my.is for a used set of oem wheels.

TorontoIS

MSRP for the 17" OEM alloys and Blizzak REVO's is 2795. How much do you think one should be able to negotiate off the price ?

phatboyc

I’m paying 1128$ for tires and 800$ for aftermarket 17" rims. Plus tax and TPMS. I shopped around and this was the best deal I found at a local speed shop.

Lexus dealer wanted 1475$ for the 17" rims. You can negociate 10% off easy.

jacky28

I have a 250 AWD, so 16" all around will (should) do. But yes, I think the dealer is trying to rip me off... and they said that's on promo too...

Which dealer is that? I think I'll give them a call...


So far it looks like I'll spending $1000+tax for tires & steelies...