Hi! Is there a problem with the 2004 Mazda3 being hard on tires. I have had two sets of Michelin tires (Harmony & Energy) become scalloped and very noisy. We were able to reduce the noise considerably on the present set (Energy) by putting a front tire on the back but I don't think the problem is solved. My other car (Toyota Camry 2007) has the same tires and they ride noiselessly.
Thanks for any suggestions or advice.
Ernie

 

How many miles on the car? The alignment on mine is such that the rear inside wears - a common issue.
An alignment issue or worn parts can cause this to happen too, try checking the alignment and steering linkages first. And listen for clunking over bumps that could be a sign of worn parts.

 

Hi!
Thanks for your quick response. It's good to know that this is not a trait of all Mazda3's. My mechanic, I feel, keeps the car including suspension, etc. in top shape, but there could be problem as you mentioned. They are apparently feathering on one side in the rear. But the car still feels very tight. Mileage: about 80,000 miles (and still a very tight cat). Would just like to resolve this

Ernie

 

Might sound stupid, but do you check your tire pressure often?
I'd also like to see a printout of your alignment from your mechanic.

Once your tires a worn, then your pretty much screwed until you get new ones and do the above.

 

Mine too.
One of the reasons it wears on the inside on the back is because the tires are not 90 degrees to the ground. I fixed mine by adjusting the cams on the lower suspension arm. It took all the adjustment it had and now my back tires do much better.
However, the front tires are a different story.
The original tires (my 3 is a 2004 2.3 liter 5 door) lasted about 15,000 miles. The Michelins (80,000 mile guarantee ha ha) lasted about 25,000. I just put the Falken 512s on it and they lasted 10,000 miles.

My wife drives this car most of the time and she is 62 years old and drives like an old lady.

From reading other forums it looks like the Goodyear Gt is the best lasting, followed by the Dunlop Sp Sport.

Any one do better on miles???

Bob the Builder: