AboutBarry Smith Expertise I have over 30 years experience in the design, manufacturing, and
testing of tires. I have served as the technical advisor to the "800"
number. I have authored or co-authored many publications - usually
without credit. I can answer almost any technical question, but
please don`t ask me to compare brands. I probably have prejudices because of
my work experience.
Experience Member SAE (Society of Automotive
Engineers)
Member Tire Society (Tire Technical Organization)
SCCA Regional Competiton License holder
Authored many training manuals on tires, their care and use.
Expert: Barry Smith Date: 6/18/2008 Subject: Toyota 4Runner tires
Question I have a 2006 Toyota 4Runner purchased new with Dunlop tires. At 18,000 I have had the car back to the dealer 8x now for vibration at 60-63mpr. The dealer now wants to replace all 5 tires with Bridgestone. I don't know if this is a mistake? Can you give me your opinion please?
Answer Heidi,
I suspect the dealer is trying to get out of this situation as best he can.
Diagnosing vibrations can be very difficult - particularly if the problem isn't tires - and after 8 times, it probably isn't. Putting on new tires would do 2 things:
1) Show that he is trying to do everything he can think of to fix the problem
2) It gives you some sort of compensation - 18,000 miles worth of free tires.
