I found a really really good deal on two blizzaks(an older model) locally. I know I should run 4 snow tires, but my question is would it be bad to run two different types of snow tires. These blizzaks are ws-15s that were mounted as snow racing tires but never used. I can't find any more of that type of tire so I am thinking about buying two more snow tires but they would be a different type. Is this a bad idea or would the fact that they're all snow tires still work in my favor? Thanks in advance.

 

As you're obviously already aware, the ideal is to use four tires of the same make and model. Where that is not possible or practical - and yes, sometimes it's because you find a deal on tires - the closer the tires are in performance and handling characteristics, the less likely you'll encounter any problems. I would think you would be okay mixing those with two other studless winter tires; even better if you choose the Blizzak WS-50 or WS-60 to mix them with.

 

I drive all day for a living. I have a set of spring/summer/fall wheels/tires, and a set of winter wheels/tires. I have gone thru a set of snow tires up front and regular all season in back. This set up helps getting moving thru the snow, but your rear end can easily slip out if not careful enough. I also had a set of mixed snow tires on another car worked well enough. The beefier tires up front the older ones in the rear. This year I got all 4 blizzaks so I assume it'll be better. I would assume any tire guy would reccommend all 4 identical tires so you get consistance performance. But, a little bit of something is better than a whole lot of nothing. Saying, snow tires even if mixed seem to do better than 4 of the same all season regular tires. I would also say take your car to an empty large parking lot and get to know the handling characteristics of the car with this set up in a light snow fall. Just be careful.

 

Thank you very much for the replies guys! I think I'm gonna pick them up because I'm getting two new blizzaks mounted and balanced on the wheels for $80. I figure I'll just use two of my older wheels and get some other snow tires. I'll get used to the way the car handles and it should be better then what I've got. As long as I have good enough grip in the rear so it doesn't slide out on me I should be fine. Thanks again.