As we all know, the OEM tires are a disaster on snow. But since there are practically no tire sizes that come in 225/45-18 (for ALL-WEATHER), how will mazda deal with tires that are not to spec? I called mazda and the rep. was like: "nope, if they are not to spec, we will not honor it". The Pirelli Nero are my choice of tires, but since they come in 225/40 -18, that would be a no no. Has anybody had mazda accept the damage of the Nero (as in a flat tire/road hazard situation) and replace them under warranty? Thanks!

Al

 

Warranty on tires? Since when.....?

 

mazda does not warrenty any parts that didnt come with the car at all including any tires you choose to use in place of the oems. i think what you are asking is if roadside assistanc ewill be free if your "aftermarket" tires go flat. i dont think so but you'd have to check the fine print or get them to put something in clear writing for you. it is an excellent question since roadside assistance is supposed to be for the life of the warrenty and everyone who has the re040s knows they aren't going to last that long. the tires themselves would have whatever comes from the manufacturer and/or seller of the tires.

 

i think he might be right
but you had to see it coming :D

 

Actually, I might have been vague when I said warrantied. I have the total care (ie it includes towing, rental reimbursement, lodging, tire & wheel), so my tires/wheels are actually covered should anything happens to them (as stated in the contract).

So, if I'm reading the contract correctly (and like the rep says), as long as I'm within the specs, I have to be reimbursed for them. But if I would get a lower profile, hence 40, then I would not be in spec and I would be denied. I asked my dealership and "supposedly" the advisor said it would be no problem and that he would replace them (but I doubt it, should anything happen). So, I can see that I'm royally screwed and either: 1. Have to buy a winter set that are the same specs or 2. Suck it up and be able to avoid all pot-holes in NYC (yea, like thats possible) or 3. Garage it for the whole winter until warmer weather comes.

Kinda sucks that the tires are only warrantied if you have the same specs, is not like I'm going for 275/35-18. Wish they had an alternative option to accomodate these problems.

Al

 

yeah they should really allow for witner tires of different sizes. the most popular winter tires all seem to be 17s. they should do like a recommendation so that we could make sure we stayed "in-spec".