Writing about the
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 given
61% (225-45-18-W)
Driving on
mostly motorways for 10000
average miles
I've always fitted Michelin tyres - I've gone through Energy Savers, Pilot Primacys, Primacy HPs, PS3s in all weathers. As a fleet driving instructor, I always fit what I consider to be the best tyres to my cars. However, after running Pilot Sport 4s for the past year, this will be the last time I buy Michelin.
I had four PS4s fitted in February last year. They arrived with only 7.4mm tread. When I contacted Michelin to ask why they didn't have 8mm tread like every other Michelin tyre I had used, they denied that my previous tyres had such tread, and offered no explanation as to the reduction in tread (I think it's called shrinkflation!)
After only 1400 miles, the front tyres were worn down to 6mm. After a year and only 10000 miles, the front tyres were worn below 2mm. I made a warranty claim and Michelin, without any hesitation, replaced the front tyres. After 1000 miles the new tyres are worn down to 6.4mm, so I expect them to wear out just as soon. This is on a Mazda 6 diesel estate which is used mostly on motorways and A roads, and rarely above the speed limit.
In comparison, the previous Goodyear Eagle As2s lasted 17000 miles, on the same car with the same driving style. The Eagles were quieter ( the Michelins have a slight howl when cruising), more comfortable, just as good in the dry and superior when worn in the wet. When worn below 2mm, the Eagles still cut through standing water at motorway speeds and felt safe in the wet. When worn to the same depth, the Michelins provided no sense of straight line grip.
In the Pilot Sport 4, it appears that Michelin is manufacturing a soft compound tyre in order to win tyre tests ( which they often do) with no consideration for the longevity of their tyres, which was for so long a strength of Michelin tyres. The wear is almost as bad as what I have experienced from Continental tyres.
Michelin tyres simply do not merit their premium price any more. I will be fitting Goodyears next time, as I have found they are slightly better tyres and better value.