I just got a bubble in one of my Blizzaks LM-22 so I had to replace it. It's the front passenger side tire. I had to get a replacement tire so I could drive back to Boston from NYC, and I ended up spending $185 on a Nitto tire. Do you guys think I can last through the winter with heavy snow and lots of driving on 3 LM-22s and a nitto tire? The treads are obviously different (the front tires are the same sizes); should I be worried about snow traction and regular driving grip? Would it be worth it for me to shell out $250 on another LM-22? These tires are only my winter set...I have S-03s during spring-fall.

 

As a rule of thumb, the tire size and the tread pattern on each axle should match, they also should have about the same wear. On a high performance automobile like ours, where the driver may try some agrressive maneuvers, because different tire compounds and tread patterns may not react in a complementary fashion to each other, it is best for all four tires to be of the same make and tread pattern.

Lou

 

You should be ok, but I would feel better buying the LM22. It would be safer, then you wont be worrying about it.

 

can you get the tire with the bubble replaced under manufacturer warranty? bubbles on new tires are defects. usually don't see that until 8+ years.

 

i never heard of that. well its too late, because I believe the tire is on the way to recycling at this point....

any other thoughts on whether or not i'll be OK with 3 LM-22s and 1 nitto?

 

you won't have the best grip on the nitto but if you drive conservatively you should be ok, unless the snow is really deep. just brake earlier and turn slower when the nitto is on the outside of the turn.