2017 AWD Snow Performance

[leftoverture]

15 hours ago, 17MKZ3.0TT said:

Well, finally got a little snow for a test drive, and the traction is amazing compared to the OEM, but to be fair, we're also comparing NEW Blizzaks to 30k miles OEM. Steering, and braking with the front ones is everything I hoped for, and the added traction from the rear when the power shifts back makes you smile. As with any 4WD or AWD vehicle, I'll just have to use my head to remind myself I'm not Superman, ice can still beat me, and awesome traction often masks, "worse roads than I thought, officer". The only downside is the noise. Seriously, pulling out from a stop into a turn on dry pavement, you'll think you have two grinding wheel bearings to the point where I tossed the OEM fronts back on just long enough to go around the block and the front wheel bearings were suddenly healed ? Just like with my 134k mi. 1966 Fairlane-based 287 wagon in the mid '70s-use your radio for load noise abatement. Actually, I never notice it except for slow, turns with the tunes off, life is good and I'm ready for more snow (but not in a hurry, flurries in March would be fine).

Perhaps you're exaggerating a bit, but the snow tires should not be that loud. I would expect only a small difference from stock. So if you are truly experiencing such a loud noise, you may have a defective tire. I'd suggest visiting the tire shop where you purchased and discussing the noise with them.  Have them go on a test drive with you. Whether it's a defective tire or you are just dissatisfied with the noise level, they should work through it with you up to even allowing you to choose a different set altogether. 

[17MKZ3.0TT]

On 12/18/2020 at 11:42 AM, leftoverture said:

Perhaps you're exaggerating a bit, but the snow tires should not be that loud. I would expect only a small difference from stock. So if you are truly experiencing such a loud noise, you may have a defective tire. I'd suggest visiting the tire shop where you purchased and discussing the noise with them.  Have them go on a test drive with you. Whether it's a defective tire or you are just dissatisfied with the noise level, they should work through it with you up to even allowing you to choose a different set altogether. 

I am exaggerating, but it's certainly not anywhere's a quiet as OEM. That said, such an aggressive tire pattern by definition won't be quiet, and rotating the closest tire to me (the one I hear most, natch) from front to rear made no difference in sound heard from the driver's seat, and my passenger claims her front tire is the one she hears. In short, the tire noise is noticeable but IMHO the snow traction is worth it. It's possible I'm running a pound or three high, but I'll address that with a new post to see what's recommended.