Tire problem - what type of tire should I replace with?

Michelin will be one of the most relaible, durable and smoothest riding tire. They are more expensive, but are well worth it. Bridgestone and Yokohama tend to very good tires as well. I would avoid Kumho, Firestone, Cooper, Nitto, Sumitomo, Pirelli, Toyo, BFG, Dunlop, Fusion, Hankook, Uniroyal and Goodyear some Goodyear are decent but overpriced). I worked for a NTB / NTW for 24 years and have seen alot more crap than good.

Thanks, Momba21. I'm having a hard time finding tires in this size. I was actually looking at some Nittos that looked good.... can you tell me what problems they tend to have? And any idea which Goodyears are good and which are not so good?

I am Assuming that you have an "SE" model w/ the size 215/45R17 91V. This size general puts more emphasis on sport handling and less on durabilty. With this low profile, you will be susceptable to sidewall damage. Any Goodyear in that size will tend to give a hard ride and will develop noise after awhile. If it were mine, I would go to www.tirerack.com and consider the following: Michelin Primacy MXM4 87V (NEW) $134; Yokohoma Advan S4 87W $147; Continental ExtremeContact DW Summer 91W $123; Continental ContiProContact Grand Touring 87H (NEW); Bridgestone Potenza G 019 91V $129 The Conti Extreme and the Yoko Advan S4 will handle the best. The Michelin Primacy and the Conti ContiPro will be the most durable and best ride (although the ContiPro will lower the performace rating from original). The Bridgestone Potenza will be a great handling tire and very durable, but may have more noise than the others. If you want to emphazie ride and durability, I would go w/ Michelin. If you want to emphasize sport handling, I would go w/ Conti. TireRack will ship to you or to a specified dealer for pre-determined priced installation.

I just bought a 2011 Elentra. It has 588 miles. I had one bulge first, then the front drivers side blew out 39 miles later after hitting a small pothole this week. I have driven Chicago Police cars in high speed pursuits and hit plenty of potholes. Did I bend rims sure? Blew a tire out ? Never. I'm starting to believe it's a combination of the tires and the suspension. My dealer, O'Hare Hyundai won't help me at all. I tried explaining my concerns on their Facebook page and all my comments, along with anyone else that commented about this problem also were deleted. This is my first Hyundai purchase and by far the worst car dealership experience I have ever had (and I have leased over 14 cars) The dealer still has my car. If anyone else is having issues with tires (or anything) on the Elantras please contact me at donbutch gmail com. Thanks

I bought a 2011 Elantra in March. I hit a pothole and got a flat immediately, as well as a bent rim - thank goodness I had purchased the tire insurance the dealer pushed (for good reason?). Yesterday, I got another flat with bent rim. I didn't even notice hitting anything. Two flats in two months less than 1500 miles. I am concerned that these tires are problematic. I have driven for thirty six years and never had this happen.

Hankook tires? If so, I talked with them in great length. "Off the record" they told me they didn't believe the tires belonged on the car. If they are not Hankook tires then we must deduce that it's solely a suspension issue with the Elantra with the combination of the wheels/tires Hyundai chose. I now have 988 miles on my car and had 3 separate tires issues. I'm finding several complaints about this already, but my dealer is denying ANY issues whatsoever with the tires/wheels or anything about the Elantra. I unfortunately was not offered the wheel/tire insurance at the time of my purchase, but the dealer is just now telling me about it. Please contact me directly by email donbutch gmail com so we can talk. Thanks. Don B.

I bought a 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring 14 months ago. I live in NYC. In less than 7,000 miles I got 3 sidewall bulges and never hit any bone jarring potholes...just the usual city uneven roads and raised manhole covers. The car is small so the total wheel/tire radius is too small for a low profile tire unless you will always drive on perfect roads. I had so little confidence in the car I had decided to get rid of it. In thinking it through, I decided to try replacing the 17 inch alloy wheels with 15 inch steel wheels. When you put tires on the 15 inch wheels you now have a lot more tire between rim and road. Problem solved...I don't really care about looks. I love the car now but this was clearly a dangerous design flaw.

bridgestones are ok until they get 20k miles on them and they ride and sound like crap. you want an honest answer, compare tires on tirerack.com and see what people who own(ed) them have to say.

I agree 100%. I too was thinking that the 17 inch wheel/tire combo is the problem with the Elantra. I also wanted to trade in my 17 inch rims for the 16 inch alloy wheels to see it that helped, but I leased the damn thing. I love leasing, but in this case it definitely hurts me. I'm paying enough per month to not have to buy new tires and rims with only 1000 miles on the car. Anyone having the same problems as us PLEASE contact the tires manufacture and Hyundai and tell them of any problems. When I call Hyundai they act as if I'm the only one with this issue. If there are any Hyundai executives or representatives reading this please address our concerns. Having a front blowout at any speed is potentially dangerous and a serious liability issue with your company, and as a cop for over 20 years I have seen what a blowout can do. Please keep any and all Elantra issues coming. Thanks. Don B. (Chicago)

I bought an Elantra 2011 on May 27th, just about a month ago. Today I was driving on the freeway and my left front tire blew out. I didn't hit anything that I know of. There were no holes or puncture areas on the tire when they replaced it. Now I'm scared that there may be a problem with the other tires. I travel Dallas to Austin twice a month. I've never had a tire just blow out and I'm 61. I was stranded because they don't put spare tires in the new vehicles so I had to wait an hour and a half for a tow truck to tow me to the tire store where I purchased a new tire and a spare tire and rim. Tomorrow I will go buy a jack.

buy tubeless yokohama tires or pirelli tires itll be the best for your old and useless car

Please contact Hyundai Corp about this and the tire manufacture. Let them know about this forum and feel free to contact me via email direct. There is something wrong with tires just blowing. I'm afraid to drive mine on the expressway these days. Also you didn't mention the size or make of the tire. It would help us all to know Don B (Chicago)

Husband just called and one of his tired blew out on his way to work. Because we paid cash for the car the Hynundai warranty does not apply to us - but we have AAA so they'll put on the temp. Now I'm beginning to wonder if these tires should have been RECALLED.

We had the 15' wheels with steel rims - and blow-out on front passenger tire. Unfortunately for us, the rim bent right at the tire pressure gauge. Means an added cost for the repair (major added cost). The tires on the car are Kumho. No tire warranty was pushed at the time of sale (we would not have taken it anyway) but I do see a piece of paper in the file that says that since we didn't finance the vehicle - one of the warranties do not apply to us (how nice is that). Going to finance only $1 of the cost from now on and let them stew.

I bouoght a 2011 Hyundai Elantra in February. In May, I got a bubble on the front passenger tire. Cost $245.00 to replace the tire by the Hyundai dealer. September, 2011 another bubble formed on the new tire. Again, had to replace the tire another $245.00. October, 2011 tire went completely flat. (Same tire) Had car towed to dealership. Towing company Hyundai roadside did not take car to dealership but to their storage facility and did not get the car there until two days later. Had to lease a car for three days to get to work. Hyundai said I keep hitting potholes. Not true. They should not have low profile tires on these cars. I have Contenental Tires and was blaming them also. I had the same tires on my Ford which I never had a problem with. Hyundai is horrible with any of their service. I am so upset that I leased this car for three years. Ford did tell me that I would be back to them in three years and they are right. I will never purchase or lease anyting from Hyundai again. I am afraid to drive the car and nobody will from Hyundai will step up to the plate. They need to change the size of the wheels and get rid of the low profiles. Completely disgused. D.Sullivan

Yep. I know. It's the Elantra though. My Sonata has been great. I now have 4600 miles on my 2011 Elantra and am still having tires issues. It's the low profile tires. You feel every single bump. I too leased and hate the Elantra. Multiple other problems too. First leased car that I really hated. And I leased a lot of cars. Hyundai won't do a thing for me. I called everyone I could, from the dealership to corporate. Nothing.

Oh and check around. The cost on that tire is about 140-150. My dealer also tried to charge me over $200 for them.

Not rocket science....low profile tires on a total radius that small is insane. The proportions don't work with this small scale. 17 inch alloy wheels are included on elantras as "a perk". They may get you killed. The amount of rubber between the rim and the road is ridiculously small.

I bought a 2011 Elantra as well. I am DISGUSTED with this car. I had a blow out on the right front tire (Hankooks) with less than 500 miles on the car. I had hit one of those yellow bumps they put everywhere in the city I live in when you take left turns at a light. I had that tire replaced. (No one suggested I purchase the tire insurance when I purchased the car!?!?!) Then the same thing happened with the front left tire. Same thing - yellow bump. Had that tire replaced. Now, the newer of the two front tires (left front), has two bulges on it and the back one on the same side has a bulge on it, too! I am totally frustrated and disgusted with this car. I loved the gas mileage and do not mind the car at all. It rides nicely and feels rather sporty. Now, I am about to invest in smaller rims with a larger tire - on all four wheels. I don't know if this is worth the investment. My husband just wants me to trade the car in or sell it. I don't know what to do?!?!?!

I bought my 2011 Elantra Ltd in May and now have 19,300 miles on it. Tires: Continental Conti Pro Contact 215/45R17 During a routine oil change today, it was brought to my attention that the front drivers side tire has a bubble in the sidewall. To my knowledge, I've hit nothing to cause this (the dealer said that the mfg. would say that I did.) I've got plans to have the dealer put on 2 new Conti Pros, but after doing research, I'm really scared! I drive 50+ miles per day at highway speeds as well as weekend trips throughout the midwest. I've got to get to work and family, but now I'm afraid of a blow out. On tirerack.com, it seems that all of the tires in this size are listed as "would not buy again." What are people running on their Elantras that they like? The only good ones I see are the Michelin Primacy MXM4 ... to replace all 4 would cost me $800+ ... ON A NEW CAR! I need to make the decision tonight, so I can get them put on tomorrow.

It's not really the BRAND of tires. It's the size. You would need 16" rims with higher profile tires. The low profile tires just don't belong on that car. The car has just too stiff of a front suspension. You have NO idea how many emails I have received about this problem. But yet Hyundai corporation says they don't have ANY problems that they have heard of about this. I know it sucks. I'm stuck with this car for 2 1/2 more years due to a lease.

Ditto to the man just above this post. I just went ahead and put new rims (16") and 4 brand new tires (Michelin) on my 2011 Elantra at Discount Tire. That's where 2 Hyundai dealerships told me to go and see if they would warranty the original tires - Kumos (sp?). They only reimbursed me for 1, even though I have replaced 2 already and had 2 more that needed replacing. It cost me $1100 with a $70 rebate for the Michelins (including four new - 16 inch rims @ $89 each and 4 Michelin tires). I have also contacted Hyundai Customer Connect and started a case file. I am not sure what good it will do, but they "promised" to contact both dealership Service Managers and see what they told me to do and they'll go from there; it's been over 24 hours now so I am not holding my breath on them contacting me. I doubt they will reimburse me for what I have spent but I could not wait any longer as 2 of the tires were bubbled and unsafe to drive on. It is IMPERATIVE THAT EVERYONE WITH A 2011 HYUNDAI ELANTRA CONTACT HYUNDAI CUSTOMER CONNECT AND TALK TO A "SPECIALIST" (DON'T LET THE FIRST PERSON YOU SPEAK TO TELL YOU TO GO TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR TIRE WARRANTY)..... THE MORE THEY ARE CALLED, THE GREATER NUMBER OF THESE CASES THAT WILL FLOOD THEIR PHONES, THE GREATER THE CHANCES OF SOMETHING BEING DONE. My husband and I are thinking of a class action lawsuit actually.

Hyundai Customer Connect number is 1-800-633-5151

the very first day i had my 2010 grand touring i knew something was wrong. turned out to be a bad front tire. dealers fix add some air.drove it i kilometer still pulling to the right. got a mechanic to come for a ride with me in my new car with 17 kilometers on it. hands off the wheel pulls to the right.he agreed. dealer fix put the bad tire on the back the right fix replace the tire.but they didn't i should have pushed the issue after reading all these reviews. i will change tire brand for sure.

I purchased a 2011 Hyundai Sonata and within 6 months, blew out the front driver side tire twice. The "potholes" were not even 1/2" and they were the Kuhmo 17" Tires. They are terrible and I don't know what to do about it.

Go back to the dealer and ask for the tire/wheel protection insurance. Mine offered me the tire/wheel, door ding (up to 6) and windshield chip insuraance for 250.00 each car for a 3 year coverage. I got both my Elantra (which is MUCH worse with the tires blowing) and our Sonata covered. It's those damn low profile tires/rims. They don;t belong on those cars. That's why I didn't get the Sonata with the 17" rims ..I KNEW they would blowout or bend. As for my Elantra Limited...I will never make that mistake again. Hate that damn car.

I have a 2012 Elantra Limited, took ownership Feb. 22, and yesterday, sidewall split. I just got off the phone with Hyundai's customer service line. I pressed the issue of this being directed to the "Powers That Be," as I am not the only one and that I am about to join in on a class action suit. She gave me a case # and told me that I could call back anytime to check on this. However, she did say that I need to take the tire to the dealership to make sure that the tire was not defective. I told her that tire isn't defective (that's a different story), it is that a low profile tire using 17" rims do not belong on this car. DEFINITELY CALL and get a case # (1-800-633-5151) - the more complaints they receive, then maybe they will make the suspension better so they won't have to try and make up for it with low profile tires. I will probably call every week or 2 weeks asking about the status of my "case."

I didn't care for the traction on original tires, so I replaced them with Continental ExtremeContact DWS at Discount Tires; I have the 17" Allloy wheels and am really pleased with them.

I have a 2011 Sonata and starting hearing a noise about 5 months ago so I took the care into be checked. I have 21000 miles on my car and was told I need all new tires they are dangerous to continue to drive on for fear of blowouts. I am so baffled by this and all I got from the dealership was tires are not covered under any warranty but we can put 4 new tires on the car for $890 - I think a class action suit against Hyundai should be started - I AM IN!!!

I am about to replace these tires on my 2011 Elantra Touring SE with a little over 10,000m on them. I am worried about having a blowout on the thruway. Can anyone additionally confirm that it is safe and advisable to move to a 16" rim on this car? If so, what tire seems to be the most successful? I have looked at the Michelin Pilot Sport and also the Continental Extreme Contact. Once I get all this done I will contact customer service, but I am more worried about my safety now. Thank you.

The more rubber on the tire the better. The car is better suited for 16" than 17" in my opinion. It seems only the Elantra's with the 17" rims and tires are having issues from all the emails I'm getting.

Thank you for answering so quickly. What I am finding it that this will change the sidewall dimensions from about 3.33" to about 4.33", about an inch more of sidewall and won't significantly alter the speedometer reading (it will read a little slower than I am actually going.) I have decided I want to do this and probably will go with the Continental tires. The next question I have has to do with wheels. We have purchased wheels/tires package from Tirerack (for a Toyota) before and my husband was not pleased with the wheels. Apparently these are generic wheels and there is a plastic spacer that is used to fit the wheel to the hub. I am looking at OEM wheels and I am finding that the tire pressure sensor will also (legally) need to be replaced when I go to a different size wheel. These two things lead me to believe I should be buying OEM wheels rather than after market wheels. Has anyone done what I am about to do and has some advice or experience they could offer? This is going to end up costing me $1,000 or more with all these extras. Anything I saved by buying this car will be negated by making my car safe to drive. There is something wrong with that.

I also have the Hyundai Elantra Touring SE. It's a 2012 with 611 miles on it. Hit a pot hole in Pittsburgh yesterday. Car drove fine the 5 additional miles home but while unloading groceries, I noticed the bulging sidewall of the front passenger tire. Never saw anything like it before. I did tons of research before buying this car and how I missed the tire issue, I'll never know. It never occurred to me that tires on a wagon could be such an issue. I just had Roadside Assistance put the spare tire on so that I could drive the car to the dealer tomorrow for a new tire (at my expense of course because I hit a pot hole). I've hit plenty of potholes in my years (age 57) and this is a first for me. I am now making myself physically ill trying to decide what to do about the issue. I'm having the exact same tire put on (Kumho Solus KH16 P215/45R17 87H) so that all 4 match until I can think clearly about the best course of action. I was thinking of asking the dealer tomorrow for an estimate to replace the wheels and tires with 16" so that the car will be safe to drive in Pittsburgh - a city with its share of pot holes. I agree - there is something seriously wrong with having to spend the $$ to replace wheels and tires on a new car in order to be safe. In my case, I only have 611 miles. It's basically a brand new car that can't handle a pot hole?!?!? Where's the NHTSA on this issue? How can Hyundai get away with putting these tires and wheels on this car?

Thank you for posting. It's honestly going to take someone having a blowout and someone getting killed before Hyundai will even recognize this serious problem. Every time I contacted Hyundai corporate about this issue they say the same thing "We have not heard of any such issues from our customers". I purposely stated this serious issue on here for informational purposes for either people that own a vehicle(s) with these 17" rim/tire combination or are looking at buying one of these vehicles. Also to above person (TSRJ) you're lucky to have had a spare. My car (2011 Elanta Limited) came completely LOADED with every single available option, including NAV package but yet NO spare tire. The company said it was to save weight for the gas mileage. Yeah, OK tell that to me AFTER I bought the vehicle from O'Hare Hyundai in Des Plaines IL. I had 488 miles on my car when I had my first of three (3) blowouts since. By far the worst driving vehicle of the over dozen new vehicles I have leased, and over 20 vehicles that I owned in my lifetime. Not only does the tires blow or bulge- the rims get bent as well. Plus you can feel every single bump in the road if the road is not completely new or flat. I might as well be driving a go cart because that's what every passenger that drives with me tells me they feel like they are in. The suspension on this vehicle is way too stiff, and the tire size only makes it worse. This car was designed to be a subcompact and they decided to add a bunch of sport features to broaden there customer base, making the car more appealing. It was never designed to be a "sporty" or sports type car and those wheels should have never been placed on the vehicle. Anyone that is having problems please contact Hyundai and free free to give them my name and email address and encourage them to read this forum because according to Hyundai, these problems "don't exist with any of their customers". Don Buczkowski donbutch@gmail.com

bubbles on my two front tires and bent rim on the back of one. my 2011 elantra purchased just a year ago... i can't believe the posts i'm reading, this really sucks people, we have to do something!

Contact Hyundai and tell them to read this forum. Also get names, dates and times to everyone you talked to from dealership on.

I have owned a 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring with 17 inch rims, since January of 2010, My problems began in October of that year and are still ongoing. I have had bulging tires, constant tire pressure loss, flat tires and bent rims. I carry a tire pump with me in the car at all times. I emailed Hyundai concerning my problem and due to their lack of concern, I now own the last Hyundai that I will ever own. A class action lawsuit is the way to go.

Update: I didn't get the 16" rims and tires from Tire Rack. The Hyundai dealer technician talked me out of it, said the tires were safe and he would trust them for his own family. My life is too busy to spend hours each week worrying about taking care of a new car. Two months ago I got a flat tire and they came out with a bolt and said that had been in my sidewall but they fixed the tire. I pay them and rush back to work. Did they make this up? I had an oil change and rotate tires Thursday. After leaving I immediately noticed a loud left tire and pulling hard to the right. I made another appointment for Saturday to make sure this dangerous issue was corrected. The first thing the service agent says is"You have 14K+ miles on your Elantra Touring and have never rotated your tires until now." I say, "Yes I did rotate my tires at around 9k at this dealership." He acts "pretend" surprised but finds the record and says something like that is a long time to go before rotating tires. So first he tries to pretend I never did it, then he is trying to convince me that going 5,000 miles before rotating tires is dangerous! After waiting an hour he calls me up to the desk. He showed me a fancy print out and says there is cupping and toe in problems and you need to do an alignment and it is $85. I just spent $28 the other night rotating them and now I am spending more just so I won't drive off the road. I could tell they he was very worried, he was nearly white with fear. They live for these perfect 10 scores when we fill out our surveys. How can I justify giving a 10? It's tough to separate out the difference between issues with the car and the dealership and what these guys have to do for a living. It's not their design, but they have to deal with irate customers all day long. I was not irate and never said a word, but I certainly was very mad. I guess this is time to call the customer service number? What would you do?

Get 16" rims and Michelin tires. I have had them on for the past 8 months and have NEVER had a problem since. If you want to call Customer Service for Hyundai, that would be great. It never hurts to get as many people as possible to contact them with regard to this terrible design flaw. I am not sure anything will be done for you, but it will add to Hyundai's hearing from a s many people as possible with the hope that something will eventually get done.

Great answer

I have a 2013 elantra with 17" Continental tires and the tire noise is terribly loud. The dealer acts like no one has ever had an issue with the noise, but I find it hard to believe when on the freeway, I can't hear my cell phone ring. I complained immediately and the dealer says it will replace the tires with Michelins at cost. But we will see. I wish I would have found this site before I bought the car.

Just wait till you hit a hole more than 2" deep.

I put on the Michelins, by recommendation from just about everybody. The dealer, Tirerack (don't listen to those guys, they just want to sell tires) and the noise is the same, waste of money. It all comes down to wrong tires, 17" low profile, on a small car. If your deaf, you'll be happy with this car.

It's really the 17" rims that should never have been put on that car in the first place. The car was never made to be a sports or "sporty" car. It is a subcompact or mid size car at best. They added all the features on the Elantra to get more money out of people. Yeah they look good on there, but drive like crap and are dangerous. It will take a death for Hyundai to listen. The entire suspension needs to be changed/modified to accommodate those 17" rims and low profile tires. Period.

hello, i may be having a similar problem. i leased a 2012 hyundai elantra in sept of 2011. The car currently has 11,700 miles on it. I brought my car to the dealership to be inspected. They told me I had a bubble in my front right tire and it needed to be replaced. They told me that I probably hit a pothole. Well, looking at my rim, there seems to be a little scuffing, so perhaps yes i did hit a pothole or curb? Not sure, can't say i remember anything that would cause damage. They also told me that i should replace my left front tire as well because it was worn. So my question is, is it normal for tires on a car with only 11,700 miles to be "worn" and should it be expected that hitting a pothole could cause a bubble in my tire? I don't know what to think and reading everyone elses experiences kind of worries me. Also, i do not have 17'' I have 16''... and the brand was continental... Hey if I did the damage thats one thing.. i'll do what i have to do to fix it (which i already did) but i'm just wondering if this is normal?

I bought an 2013 Elantra in August. In October front tire tire blew out and now November 7th I have another flat. To top it off the vehicle has less than 3000 miles on it, =( No one seems to want to help. I've paid for both tires and called the tire warranty company....surprisingly they say it only covers wear and tears. I'm so dissatisfied with this vehicle and the Hyundai personnel. Called into customer connect and have a claim#. Wished I knew all this before I leased this CAR!!!!

We all got screwed buying this car. If you can go back to the dealer and ask for the tire/ wheel protection plan. They back dated mine after I threatened them a bit. Oh and here's our new problem if you have not heard. The 2011-13 Elantra's MPG. Hyundai claims they were a "little" off (3%). I drive 15 miles (each way) to work each day. 7 Chicago city miles and 8 highway miles. Hyundai claimed 40 MPG highway / 29 city. I reset my dash meter with every fillup and log my gas reciepts in my phone. Hyndai clamed a 34.5 MPG combined fuel rating. Since I bought my car in 06 Apr 11, I ranged from 24.2-25.4 combined MPG every single tank. Hyudai just admitted in the press that they were slightly off (3%) with our Elantra's. 3%?! Now I'm only a cop and don't have a Major in Math, but that's way more then 3% off. But they are willing to reimburse us. I did there lousy calcalations on a program they sent me. Im getting back like $61 (including the 15% inconvience fee they are giving all us on top of the 3% gas calcaulation mistake) I calculated over $400 lost already not including the extra "bonus" they are giving us. I really hate this car.

I did hear about that and I completely agree. My gas mileage is nowhere near what it should be according to Hyundai. After I replaced those 2 tires I called continental tires because I was completely dissatisfied. Well initially I called hyundai and they told me there was nothing I could do and to call the manufacturer. Continental not only told me that there was no way tire should be "worn" according to mileage but upon further investigation by continental, there was no reason for my tire to he replaced in the first place because (excuse my lack of proper car tire knowledge) according to my paper work that was faxed to continental, my tire tread count was at a 6 and apparently to fail inspection it would have to be a 2. In other words I was taken advantage of .. Completely disgusted over the whole situation.. However continental is going to reimburse me for my tires.

We've had a terrible experience with tires on a 2013 Elantra, with about 500 miles on the odometer. Hankook tires. My wife brushed the curb while parking.Immediately 2 flats and dented wheels (that had to be replaced). Like the wheelsare made out of SIlly Putty. She called the Hyudai Roadside Assistance, but they said they'd only tow her to a Hyundai dealership 5 miles away($$$ to replace tires and wheeels). She was 2 blocks from an American Tire Co. where we usually go for tire work. So she called AAA, and when the guy came he said the Hyundai Roadside Assistance is just a profit center for them, they'll only take you to a dealer who will charge Extra Bucks for everything. Pluswhen you buy the car they don't provide a spare tire, just a "Re-inflating Device" which doesn't do any good if your tire(s) are blown out.. Interesting to see all the other comments about tires on Hyundais. Not a good sign, can we get a major recall?

I replaced my 2012 Elantra Touring SE tires and wheels when the car had about 625 miles on it. I posted about 6 months ago when I had the problem and wasn't sure what to do. I was either going to trade the brand new car in, or spend the money on 16 inch wheels and 55 size tires to replace the original 17 inch wheel and 45 size tires. I spent the money on new tires and wheels for a brand new car. How ridiculous is that??? However, I now have about 5000 miles on the car and have had zero tire issues since. I used Tirerack to buy the wheels and tires (16 inch painted alloys to replace the Hyundai 17 inch alloys) and Michelin Primacy MXV4 205/55R16 (all season tires) to replace the Kumho Solus 215/45R17 (spending about $1100 of my own money after rebate). I was honestly too afraid to drive the car with the 17 inch wheels and 45 tires after the bulging tire issue. Now I can drive like a normal person. Tirerack shipped the tires (mounted tires/wheels with tire sensors on) to the Hyundai dealer who then installed on my car (and programmed sensors) for $39.95 plus tax. I use a different Hyundai dealer for service (not the one that sold me the car). This is basically for location reasons after a move. However, I don't think I would go back to the selling dealer anyways because of the tire issue. I think they had to know the wheel/tire combination was a problem. I didn't expect that Hyundai would offer to reimburse me and they didn't. Two things to note about the new tires: Reviewers of the new tires stated that they do reduce your gas mileage by about 2 miles per gallon. That is true. In my combined city/highway driving, I get 22-23 mpg. I was getting 24 mpg with the 600 miles driven before I replaced the tires.... Perhaps the issue is complicated by Hyundai's error in gas mileage estimates... not sure if the Elantra Touring is included in their error or not. Also, the Hyundai Elantra Touring SE had a pretty harsh and bouncy ride with the 17 inch wheels and 45 tires. With the 16 inch wheels and 55 tires, the ride is definitely not as harsh but I still experience a somewhat bouncy ride on certain roads - generally rougher freeways) likely due to the stiff suspension of the car. I think I read that the Touring's suspension is stiffer than the Sedan; the 17 inch wheel combination made the car unsafe as well as harsh (in my opinion). I wouldn't recommend this car to anyone unless they replaced the 17 inch/45 wheels. With the 16 inch/55 wheels, I would recommend this car as a safe, fun car for a younger drive, but still not really for the over 55 crowd. I do actually like my car a lot now that I've replaced the wheels/tires, but I still wish the ride was a little smoother. I'm not sure if 15 inch wheels would have helped more or not; it might, but I was told that I would lose some handling ability that is a plus of the car, if i went to the 15 inch wheels. Anyways, I hope this info is helpful for others having the same problem.

Wonderful info. Thanks for responding. I live in Chicago and just read the paper today and see someone here just filed a class action lawsuit about the gas issue. They are asking for 10K per owner that purchased these POS's. Hating this car more and more every day.

I have a 2011 Elantra Limited and have ~80K miles(long commute, mostly highway). I just had my oil change and tire rotation done and was told my tires need replacing again...this will be the 4th set. It can't be the tire mfr as all three sets have been different brands and I am not even getting 30K out of a set. With my 2005 Elantra without the low profile, I was getting 40-50K miles per set of tires. I am also considering new 16 inch rims before I get the new set as this is ridiculous. Oh, and I did get a flat(sidewall blowout) while on a 500 mile family trip with a 3 year old in the car and snow squalls out side. I will send Hyundai a letter about this, but can;t wait for them to do anything and honestly don't expect them too. Does anyone have an email address for Hyundai Customer Connect?

consumeraffairs@hmausa.com, by the way....

does anyone know the bolt pattern distance? I am also moving down a size because of everything described here.. i am so glad i found this page.. I was feeling like it was my driving although i have never had a problem like this with tires in any of the cars i have been driving over the past 20 years!....

Another tire blown again last month for those of you following my posts the past two years now. Dealer finally admitted that they have had more than several complaints about the 17" inch rim/tire issue on the Elantras. Don B (Chicago)

I went to Town Fair Tire and bought four 16 inch rims and four Toyo Extensa tires in a size that made the circumference almost identical to the original 17 inch rims with low profile tires (can't remember the size right now). Only 5K miles so far, so can't speak to the endurance, but boy does the car handle wet pavement better than the low profile originals. I will report back after I hit 20K. FYI, the 4 new rims and 4 new tires cost me ~$1150, but it will be worth it money wise if the tires last the advertised span of 40-60K miles since future replacements will be in the ~$500-600 range(tires only). I was paying ~$700 for a set of 4 low profiles that would only last ~25K miles(3 different brands tried, so fairly sure it is the design/mismatch).

Thanks to all for your straight-forward, non-whining, information filled replies and responses. We just purchased a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT , and at 1,200 miles, with the Nexen brand 20/55/16 tires, the left front tire blew after running over a small recessed manhole cover. As road noise and all weather handling (we get lots of snow) are the primary concerns, looks like the Michelin MXMs are what we need. As always, you'll get what you pay for.

Well I got another tire bulge on the 2011 Elantra Limited. I couldn't take it anymore and traded it in. I had 10 months left on the lease. Yes I lost a little on the trade in turning it in early, but with the residual value on the Sonata lease being so high, I was able to get a 2013 Sonata (pretty well equipted) for no money out of pocket and $54 a month LESS than I was paying on the 2011 Elantra for a 36 month lease. For $225 a month- you can't beat the Sonata. So we now have two 2013 Sonata's and couldn't be happier. No more rough ride and worrying about blown/bulging tires. Please keep the comments coming so I can see if a class action lawsuit will ever be filed on the Elantra's. I still have to file for the money back Hyundai is offering on the MPG the Elantras never got. Anyone know the site for that?

I have a 2011 Elantra GLS w/16" rims and have had to replace my tires twice and only have 50,000 on the car. No blowouts but bald tires w/wear pattern even across so not really an alignment issue according to my mechanic. I won't go back to the dealer I bought my car from, Barry Sanders, as the whole buying issue was frustrating to say the least. Bought this car for the gas mileage and have buyer regret. Am a single mom so money is tight and having to replace all 4 tires each year is hard on the budget. I like the way it drives but not sure I'd recommend it to anyone. I drive 90 miles a day for work and worry about the safety. Glad I'm not the only one with issues

I have a brand new 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring SE. I love it!!!! I just HATE the 17inch alloy wheels. In the first week of driving I noticed how hard bumps felt. I felt no cushioning between the tires and the road. Sounds terribly rough over bumps. When winter hit I discovered that my 17inch wheels didn't perform well on snow. They are the worst performing tires on snow ever. I love my Elantra Touring but what should I do about the tires. A Mr. Tire mechanic told me to stick with the 17inch alloy wheels but get them in a Michelin Primacy mxm4. He said they'll make all the difference. Not sure if I agree. My wheels would still be shitty low profile 17inchs. I assume they'll still be lousy even if I get a Michelin. Should I have the dealer replace them(at my cost ofcourse) to 16 inch wheels?? Would that be bad for the car if I reduce the factory size wheels. Should I just go with 17inch Michelin or have my dealer reduce them to 16inch Michelins ? Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks, T

Touring12, I changed to a 16 inch rim with tires that makes the circumference about the same(can't recall the size right now). I did that in the spring after a sidewall blowout in the low profile tire, so I haven't driven in much snow yet, but they are MUCH better in rain. The original 17 inch rim and low profile tires did not perform well when it rained and were bad in snow. I tried three different brands of tires and all were bad in snow. I did not try the Michelin's, but I did not get no-name brands either. I am not a tire expert, but so far, the suggestion to change to the 16 inch rims and a slightly narrower tire has helped in poor weather.

Easy answer. Get the 16" rims and just buy REALLY good tires. I live in Chicago and as you know we get lots of snow. I like the Michelin's Primacy MXV 4's on one of my many "older" cars. By the way, for those following my posts the past few years. I'm going to be leasing another SONATA. This will make (3) 2013's we will have. Only thing I'm worried about is that this one will be an SE with 18"s. I heard the Sonata's 18" rims and tires for the 2013 year and up, are supposed to be better. Anyone know of someone with a 2013 Sonata SE and how the rims held up? As for me, the Sonata was a much much better choice than the Elantra Limited I had for over 2 years. Never a single problem with ANY of our Sonata GLE's over the past 4 years. BTW two dealers now admitted they have had so many customers complain about their Elantra's with the 17" wheels. Hyundai is supposed to redesign the Elantra with the 17" combos next year. Suspension and rim/tire combo. After 6 tires in 2 years with the Elantra- I'm done with them.

Thanks for the responses! Well I called Hyundai customer service and asked if it was safe to go from 17inch alloys to 16 inch steel wheels. The rep did some research and told me it would mess up my cars warrenty . She said the car was made for that type of wheel and changing it can throw things off. My warrenty would not cover any problems that might come from the modification. I don't want to mess up my cars warrenty. I'm still going to call my dealer and see what they say. I imagine they'll back up what the rep said. So if i'm stuck with these awful low profile wheels is it possible to find a safer and better performing kind. The factory wheels are crap! I've been told that the Michelin Primacy mxm4's are good but does anyone know of an even safer and better 17inch low profile alloy wheel? Thanks again, T

Janet, I forgot to ask in my last post if your dealer warned you about the warrenty issue. Was your car still under warrenty when you switched to the 16inch wheels? I hope your new wheels continues to do well for you!! Thankyou, T

I was at ~80K miles and about to purchase my 4th(!!!) set of tires, so I was not as concerned about the warranty at that point. I did exchange emails with Hyundai telling them about the problems and they kept giving me stock answers, not really addressing my specific concerns, so it was rather useless, in my opinion, except that there is another complaint in their system. When I asked about changing tires, they wrote to me:"For any vehicle modifications, we recommend you consult with the Service Manager at your preferred Hyundai dealership, as they are the best-trained and most-qualified to provide support for your Elantra. ". So, I called my dealer to ask about pricing for OEM rims that are smaller and used on the other Elantras and was given an estimate of well over $2K for just the rims and sensors, tire not included. They quoted the sensors and didn't even mention they could be re-used and reprogrammed. It is at this point that I went on my own with the change. I do want to add one more general note to this thread.

Wow...thanks Janet. What frustrations you had to go through. Atleast your car is finally performing a bit better for you. Well I called my dealer and they said that my warranty wouldn't be voided at all. They then gave me very expensive quotes to change them out to 16inch wheels. I decided it's too darn expensive and i'm just going buy the best 17inch low profile tires possible. I think Michelin Primacy might be my first choice. I'll bet though that it wont help much. I also decided that i'll most likely trade my car in in about 2 years. I Hate to do that but I really don't want to be stuck with those lousy low profile tires and 17inch wheels. I love the car so much but I can't accept the awful tires on it. Next time i'll be sure to buy a car with standard tires. Well thanks again Janet and good luck with those new wheels!! T

The cost for decent rims(not the best, not the worst and the ones I thought looked similar to the original) PLUS tires PLUS extras(alignment,road hazard, etc) was a little over $1100 at Town Fair Tire. Hyundai quoted me more than $2K for just the cheaper rims and sensors, no labor/tires/extra. Other tire places could have similar pricing less than the dealership.

You might want to try The Tire Rack. I buy most my tires and rims through them.

I have a 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT. Took our first road trip Seattle to Eugene Or. The road noise at freeway speed was the worst of any car I have ever been in. The mpg at freeway speeds was not that great. I am very disappointed in the car. My tires are Nexen brand. So far no problem, but I will check them ever trip. With all the problem I have read about this car is for local use only. I now will use the big v8 4x4 for road trip. Terrible gas mileage but I know it is safe and no road noise.

So I just read some reviews on the Michelin tires I wanted to put on my 2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring SE. My tire sizes are 215/45-17. The reviews weren't good and now I don't know what tires to buy. My issue is that I live in a heavy snow area and need a great all season tire that will give me better traction and control over snow. I refuse to buy snow tires. Anyone know of a decent ALL SEASON tire in 215/45-17 that will perform well on snow? I just don't know what tires are proven to work well on a snowy surface. Thanks to anyone who can help. T.

I have a 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring SE (well in Canada it's called the GL with Sport Package). When I bought the car I immediately noticed it was a very rough ride with the P215/45R17 Kumo's that came equipped. Every time I even hit a small bump I really felt it and tar strips hit consecutively made me feel nauseous. I complained to the dealer about the suspension and they told me it was the tire size/low profile. My owner's manual said the car can also support P195/65R15 and P205/55R16. I put on used winter tires - Blizzak's P205/55R16's and noticed a difference in the ride comfort. Still not the best but better than the originals. I've had my car for 4 years now and have put on the winters from Dec - April every year. This year I left them on for the summer as the those crappy original 17 inch tires are already bald! My car only has 64,000 kilometers on it with more than half the kilometers being but on my winter tires. I haven't had any blow outs, sidewall, or rim issues that the other posters noted on my 17" alloys and I do go over a lot of bumps and potholes here in Toronto's rough roads. After 8 winters, the Blizzaks finally need to be replaced. Now I'm thinking of purchasing new All Season tires that I can perhaps drive through the winter (if you have heavy winters like we do, it's always best to get winter tires but can't afford 2 sets of tires this year). I was going to put them on the 17 inch alloy rims but now you guys have me thinking twice. Perhaps I should just replace my winter steel rims with the All Season's and then get new alloy rims later. I read a lot of reviews and the "Michelin Primacy MXV4", "Hankook Optimo H727" and "Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus" tires seem like good tires for my purposes. I had Michelin Xice before the Blizzak's and loved them! The Pirelli are the only one of the 3 that come in the 215/45R17 if I did decide to go with my original alloys

frankandmia check out the reviews for the Pirelli if your set on getting the All Season in the 215/45R17 http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp? tireMake=Pirelli&tireModel=Cinturato+P7+All+Season+Plus http://tirereviewsandratings.com/pirelli-cinturato-p7-all-season-plus- review-rating/

Also frankandmia, the Nokian WRG2 appears to be a good tire for snow as an "all season" really "all weather" tire. Check out these reviews... one has a great link to a video a guy did driving on them in snow. I think I'm going to go with these. They come in both the 215/45R17 and 205/55R16 http://tires.about.com/od/buyers_guide/tp/The-Best-All-season- Tires-For-2013.htm http://forums.redflagdeals.com/nokian-wrg2-all-weather-tires- my-winter-experience-675868/ http://www.vimeo.com/2511350

Thank you so much to BToronto!! Your response was very helpful to me:D Good luck with your winter driving. T

same problems with my 2012 Elantra Ltd. bought it in Jan. 2012, drove on a bump. tire lost air had to have it fixed... same issues with dealership (Hanlees Hyundai Hilltop Auto Mall) eve if my car ws barely a week old then they said warranty does not cover road hazard...$50 to fix , went to PEP boys instead and paid $20. Had two or three incidents where tire alert lit, inflated the tires in gas stations... Last week, hit a small pothole and immediately burst my left front tire...same as most you, no spare tire, and the emergency inflate kit didn't work. My Elantra was towed, good thing I was still close to home and was only about to enter freeway as this is very dangerous.. I checked I have the Hankooks tires too, the damage was also on the sidewall the rim "sliced" the tire. I joined this forum because I have the same sentiments and wheel opinions about the Elantra. Its like driving a road roller with thin inflated rubber, any road unevenness will damage or deflate the tires. I didn't want these tires but it came with the Limited as a "perk" as one member here said. Should you have any actions against Hyundai, or updates I would like to be informed. (rgmatch24@yahoo.com) I have a case number now at Hyundai consumer affairs, I really want this addressed because its a safety issue. Tires get recalled, even floor mats and pedals have malfunction and need recall. This issue seems obvious to the lay person's eye. too many metal, not enough rubber in between road and car.

Having same issues! Tires w chopped worn places! Tire place looked at them and said they've never seen anything like it before. Bently huyndai of huntsville Alabama said rotate every 3000 miles and add air to tires (35 pd) don't go by what the book tells you! Why should I have to do that? beverlymmmm@gmail.com

I found this blog while looking up complaints for my Elantra Ltd. 2012 "Model Car of the Year" I have calls in to the 2 brothers who own the largest Hyundai dealership in the country. This is my 3rd Hyundai. I had 2005 Sonata (loved it), have a 2007 Azera (LOVE IT), but now I have the Elantra. Just dealt with my 4th or 5th tire issue. Just like all above posts the service dept. tells me there is more junk on the roads!! I have been driving for 50 years and maybe have had a total of 2 or 3 flats. Not 4 or 5 in 15,000 miles. Since the flats are all damaged on the side of the tire can't be repaired! I have 4 new tires on this car. I am petrified to drive it. During this last cold spell the tire pressure gauge went on and I had to bring it in to get it turned off. All other cars seem to just turn off when the weather warms up. As it turned out they put the car on a lift and show me a "nail" in the tire, I told them to "keep the car" I was done!! Anyway, it turns out it was just the head of a tiny thumbtack and had nothing to do with tire pressure. But I did need some air in that rear tire because it got cold??? And, as others have said here, the dealer looks at you as if you are the only one with the problem. I never thought of getting a case number but I will do so immediately. I do not feel safe driving this car and need to trade it in. However, I can't and won't do so without major help from my dealership on the price of new car and trade in value of my Elantra (which I love if I wasn't afraid of dying everytime I get on a Highway)!

Service manager in Hville al said to add more air 35 psi and rotate every 5 to 6,000 miles. The tires that came on my car continental are crap. Not enough rubber between rd and body of car. New tires on front just to see and the back ones within a week dropped from 35 psi to 29 psi. There's a problem with the design of the car... Period! Won't buy another one! Good luck !

Although you are correct about the Elantra having serious tire concerns, as I had so many myself, unfortunately it's true that a tire will expand or detract depending on the temperature. I have five cars in Chicago. The ones that the tires are filled with just air have the same issues as our weather dramatically changes. Although I would love to just blame Hyundai for this natural issue. It's just not the case. When it got to a high of -7 here last week (not windchill, mind you) my 2003 Toyota's airbag light started blinking until the car warmed up about a good 20-30 mins. Once I shut it off and started it again the light went away. It did this all week long as we had days of zero or below in a row. I thought this was just because the truck was 10-11 years old. As I was talking to my wife about it, she said one of our 2013 Sonata's was doing the same thing. These extreme colds affect our vehicles in many ways. Try putting hydrogen in your tires instead of just compressed air and you shouldn't have the problem of the huge difference in increase and decrease of pressure in the tires. Keep informing us on the Elantra low profile tire issues though. I'm glad I wasn't the only one they went through so many tires in about 24 months and about 21k miles (can't remember exact amount now since I traded the tire blower in for my second 2013 Sonata and never looked back). Don- Chicago

Don.. Don't you me nitrogen ?

Yes. I'm sorry. Running on about 3 hours of sleep and speed typing on my iPhone. And from the studies I have been reading nitrogen is not a HUGE giant factor, but I have noticed that my two vehicles that to have it, tend to stay more stable during the extreme temperature changes. Sorry again for the typo (or more mind slip I guess). Not enough sleep at all and too much Red Bull this morning.

I think any 17" rim is a problem. I had a PT cruiser with skinny tires (little rubber between the road and the rim) and had two sidewall failures within a month - due to hitting broken pavement. I'm looking to replace 2013 Elantra Limited original tires after 30,000 miles. My primary criteria will be noise reduction. Noise is not Elantra's strong suit, so I am looking for tires most likely to quiet this car at highway speeds.

I have about 3200 miles on my brand new 2013 Elantra GT with 17" wheels. I drive a lot and put those miles on in 2 months. I know I have hit a few potholes lately but nothing that previous cars would have handled without damage to the tires. In the past week, I discovered a bubble on the left front tire, ordered a new tire from tirerack.com and then Firestone discovered a smaller bubble on my right front tire. So I ordered another tire from tirerack. I got the road hazard insurance on both, but will be getting either a different brand the next time or converting to 16" wheels and tires at a hefty expense (looks like about $1000-1200 for all four). I loved my car but this is a major bummer and I guess I will be checking all kinds of reviews before buying another. Never thought to look into tire reviews prior to purchase.

You have no other option. I either blew or had bubbles in about 6 tires in less than 24 months.

I called Hyundai and the supervisor told me to report my issue to the National Highway Safety Administration. She said if there are enough reports they may issue a recall. BTW before I could replace my second bad tire, I got a full blown flat when I hit yet another pothole today. I am looking into the 16" wheels and tires now. Unbelievable having to spend around a ton of money on wheels/tires for a brand new car.

The supervisor at Hyundai Customer Connect told me it was a tiure issue not a Hyundai issue! He told me they sell cars NOT tires! I told him I bought a car with the BAD "FREE" tires you put on it!! He told me to call the tire manufacturer and take it up with them. I told him I had no idea what my original tires were due to the fact that every one had been replaced already. He tried to find out the tire brand that was on my car at time of purchase. My dealer was unable to give him that info. Even if they could what proof of flats would I have. I did not save tires, who knew all would be bad? I am not dropping this just taking a short break to plan my next step.

That's the reason we kept our tires . We will not buy another hyundai . They are aware of the crappy tires they are putting on their cars.

Again it's NOT the tires no matter what brand you have or ever put on. It's the low profile rim/tire combo. If you look at my over a dozen posts here I did exactly the same thing with contacting Hyundai multiple times and the tire company. The tire company said the rim/tire combo doesn't belong on that car. The car was never meant to be a sports or "sporty" car. It's supposed to be a mid level compact car. Hyundai started to add options after the car was designed to add extra cost to the car and appeal to a different buyer. There's nothing wrong with Hyundai's other cars. I traded in the Elantra Limited for a Sonata and now have owned 3 Sonatas. ZERO and I mean ZERO problems with any of them. But they do need to recall the 17" rim/tires on the Elantra. It's too stiff of a suspension for that size of rim. I can't ever tell you the dozens and dozens of emails I already received about this same exact issue, along with friends that still own the Elantra with that rim/tire combo. They constantly are getting bubbles or blowing tires.

Sorry Don... That's pretty much what I meant. Tire/ rim problem! I agree w you. Anyway.... I'm over it!

Update on my 2011 Elantra limited. With the original 17 inch rims, I was almost about to buy my 4th set of tires at 80K miles(at about $700 each time). I had the original set for ~25K and then two other brands/mfrs over the next 55K, so Tire mfr had nothing to do with the early wear-out issue(also, none were discount brands). At about 75K I had a sidewall blowout and had that one tire replaced. At 80K I went to Town Fair tire and bought 4 16 inch rims and 4 tires that brought the circumference to about what the same as the original. It cost me about $1200 for the rims and tires and installation. I have had these for a little over 25K now and my last maintenance showed that there is still decent tread left, so already looking better. Additionally, the car handles much better in the snow than with the original wider tires. And, when I do need to replace these, it will be more like 5-600 for a set of 4 instead of $700.

If anyone decides to get a lawyer involved and start a class action suit, let me know. In the meant time, thank you. all of you just saved me a bunch of time, money and aggravation. I will be getting my 16 " tires and wheels next week and will keep you posted on how my Elantra does with them.

Those who have followed this question and postings, might be interested in reading "how does a hyundai elantra drive in snow? Asked by sharpaul Dec 25, 2012 at 10:34 AM about the 2011 Hyundai Elantra GLS , on this site. You will see that most if not all answers relate to dis-satisfaction with the car's original tires and the car's horrible handling in snow and winter weather. I would LOVE IT if someone started a class action suit...just wish I knew of an under-employed lawyer who would take it on pro-bono! I really don't know how these things are done.

I would be first on board. That car was a nightmare.

OK, well I started slowing up on my new wheel and tire purchase but placed the order 2 days ago because....(you guessed it)....I now have a bubble on one of the new Nexen tires that I just purchased two weeks ago. That's 3 tires in 3 wks. (this time my hubby hit the pothole) I bought some 16" Sport Tuning wheels and Michelin Defender tires from tirerack.com and will have them put on this week. I will keep you posted and let you know if the problem is solved!

I don't have an answer, yet; but I will have one, once I decide what to do. I have a similar problem listed here several times. i bought an Elantra 2013, last year and it came with low profile 215/45r17 tires. Within 2 months I brushed a curb on an access road to main street and the tire popped like a cheap balloon with a 2 inch hole. Cost to replace was $169. I asked the dealer if I could swap out the low profile tires for 'regular' tires, and he said they don't do that. Besides, he said, the tire pressure sensor light will always be on because the pressure will be different than the Hankook low profile tires that came with the car. I thought that was BS because I thought the computer in the car could be set to accept a different tire pressure that accommodates the regular tire with smaller wheels. Am I right? Also, I just discovered a "bulge" in another tire on my Elantra. I want out of this problem without spending mucho dinero for tires and/or continuing to use low profile tires and watching them blow out randomly.. Anyone got some good advice? If not, I was thinking about getting some used wheels (smaller size) and some regular tires and taking my chances with the air tire sensor and gas mileage loss. Thanks for any advice or recommendations.

I paid for my own 16 inch rims and tires as a package at a major tire retailer. They are able to reprogram the pressure sensors to match the requirements.

This is really simple. This car should definitely not be on the road with 17" rims. It most likely should not be on the road with 16" rims. In 2010 I bought an elantra touring because it was a really cool car. Over the next 2 months I had 4 flats without any reasonable "trauma"--all side wall 'bubbles'. I liked the car so much that I paid to have 15" wheels put on the 2010. Problem solved....but at my expense. I have since bought 2 more elantra tourings for family members but have always insisted on 15" wheels. I have always gotten push back--"you're making no sense"...."we don't have them"...somehow in the end they have come up with what I wanted. Cash is King. The cars have been more than fine. Tiny cars with low profile wheel are ridiculous. They know it...you should know it.

Janet, may i ask what major tire retailer you went to for that kind of package? What was the total for that 4 tire package? I'm asking because I live in a smaller town area in upstate NY and I suspect that the retailer you used is not anywhere close to me...but there's always a chance. I can't find any available wheels anywhere around this area, either. Am I seriously out of luck (SOOL)? Thank you for your help, again! :-)

Take at look at Tire Rack online. I have bought quite a few tires and rims from them in the past. Decent prices and fast delivery. Plus if you're looking for rims they have to program to allow you to see what they look like on most vehicles first.

I got my new 16" Mich. defender tires and Sport Tuning rims from TireRack.com for $1090 and that included road hazard protection on the tires. I had my regular mechanic install them one month ago on my Elantra GT 2013 and I have had no tire pressure indicator lights on. And I have had no bubbles so far. Hope that helps.

I went to Town Fair Tire. I paid ~$1100 for 4 tires and 4 16 in rims. They re-used the pressure monitors and re-programmed them. My only reservation is that I still might not be getting good tire life, but I am at 32K now and the 17inch tires would only get me to 25K. Better handling in the rain and snow with the 16 inch though, in my opinion.

Thank you Janet, Janine333, and Don for your help. Janet: Town Fair Tire is too far from me, as the closest stores would be in Connecticut. I'm in Endicott, NY which is the southern part of Upstate NY. I do appreciate that you were able to get a pkg deal, however. Don and Janine333: TireRack.com seems to be a cool place to go. Now I need to figure out what is the best weight, best brand, and best finish to go with my "silver" 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe SE. The choices are somewhat intimidating to me because I am not very well informed about wheel brands and wheel weight. I suppose "silver" wheels would go best; but that's a minor decision, really. I thought it might be a good idea to see what the weight and brand of the existing 17" wheels I have on there, are now. It's a place to start for me. What do you all think? I think I also need to understand the "programming" thing in regard to see what my choices would look like on my make & model vehicle. Sorry I keep asking questions; but all of you have been very helpful, and I appreciate your experience with this. Thanks again for your help :-)

I am not a tire expert, so I don't won't to give bad advice. I discussed it with the guys at Tire Fair Tire to make my choices of tire and rim. I didn't go cheapest and I didn't go most expensive or high performance.

For all people who have this problem. Let your voice be heard! Its not you, its the tires. https://getsatisfaction.com/hyundai/topics/do_you_have_problems_wit h_the_tires_on_your_hyundai_elantra?rfm=1 (please go there and press the +1 button) http://www.arfc.org/complaints/2012/hyundai/elantra/tires/problem.aspx (please enter your complaint)

Hi all, I have a 2012 Elantra Touring with 17" wheels and P215/45R17 tires. I have owned the car for 2.5 years and the tires keep blowing out on me or my rims get damaged. I've spent well over $2000 and countless hours at the shop. I am in agreement with some other people above. There is just no enough rubber between the wheel and the road. If there are potholes where you live, then you are going to be unhappy. If your car is newish, just suck it up and get new wheels and tires. The problem will never go away. If you plan to replace your 17" rims, I noticed that the standard Elantra comes with 15-inch alloy wheels with P195/65R15 tires. Hyundai doesn't make the Elantra Touring anymore. They replaced it with the Elantra GT. That car comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires. I am no expert, but I think either one of these is a good option if you have the 45 tires. Here is a great explanation of tire numbers. http://www.yokohama.com.au/Footer/Useful-Links/How-To- Talk- Tyres.aspx If you want to get rid of your car, please know that in 2011 and 2012, Hyundai was offering Trade In Value Guarantees. I have called around and its a great offer. Please please refer to the above posts and register that you have having a problem. I am hoping that an attorney will start a class action suit if there is enough interest.

Try this link https://getsatisfaction.com/hyundai/topics/do_you_have_problems_with_t he_tires_on_your_hyundai_elantra?rfm=1

Everyone - thanks for your answers and thoughts here. I wish I had found this page before making my purchase, as I would not not have purchased this car. I've had FOUR replaced tires: front-passenger (Nexen OEM), front-passenger again (Hankook, sold to my by the dealer), front-driver (Nexen OEM), and just this weekend, front-passenger a third time (Nexen, different model). I bought the tire warranty from Tire Barn (Munro Muffler affiliate) on all of the tires, which they sold me at $15 per tire. Now, they'll replace the tire for the cost of the warranty on the new tire. I have the 17" wheels (245/45R17) and would go to the 16" wheels if it made a difference. For now, I'm filing a complaint with the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. For all the complaints here, I only find one over there with my model year. That said, if you haven't, please file one: https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/index.xhtml

I find it strange that you all have 17" tires on your Elantra Tourings. My 2011 was sold new from the dealership with 15" tires. At 65k miles I am just now replacing them. I have had them rotated with each oil change at 5k miles. All was included in my purchase price. I am replacing them with better all weather tires as I am moving from AZ to CO.

Kerry, there are some posts that are mixing up the overall issue, but the 17 inch tires were standard on the Elantra Limited model in 2011. That is what I got and wish I didn't.

I have a 2012 Elantra Limited with 17,000 miles and 17' alloy rims. The front passenger tire has 2 bulges, and the front drive tire has 1 bulge. I'm not sure if I should get 15" or 16" rims. How will this effect the gas mileage?

I have a 2011 Elantra Touring SE with 24000 miles and r17 tires and I already have bulges. I drive around NYC and they blame the bulges on potholes, but I realized I'm not to blame.

I have had no issues with bulges since replacing my 17" wheels with 16" wheels and the appropriate tires in April. (Elantra GT 2013) Prior to that I had gotten 3 bubbles in 3 wks. with about 3000 miles on the car. I now have about 13K on the car and I am still hitting just as many potholes as I did before. No bulges. I might be getting slightly worse gas mileage, but I really had no choice. Report your problems using all the links provided above if you haven't already.

Thanks janine333! What kind of tires did you get, can I ask? BTW, I live in NYC where I wonder if its worse - pothole-wise- than other places. I imagine Chicago or anyplace in the Northeast or midwest to be a real weather nightmare. I am not looking forward to even worse mileage. The car struggles to maintain 23 mpg in NYC.

actually, I am getting the impression that larger tires = better mpg http://www.caranddriver.com/features/effects-of-upsized-wheels-and- tires-tested

I am considering writing a letter with my attorney to address this situation to Hyundai USA and Hankook (maker of the OEM tires). Neither is taking responsibility for this situation. If you wish to be involved with this project, please contact me at noodles56 at gmail.com by 8/25/2014.

I am not sure the fault is with Hankook. I had purchased 4 sets of tires by the time I hit 80K mile and all three different brands(good names, not discount ones) only gave about 20-25K miles before needing replacement in my case. It was the last set that had a side wall blow out and that's when I purchased 16 inch rims on my own and got 25-30K on the 16 inch rims.

I'll leave Hankook out of it then. But no one has.responded and I don't think there's any interest on this board maybe I should just replace the tire giving me trouble and get rid of the car :(

I have "interest" as I think it is a valid complaint. And I will say that my 2012 Hyundai Elantra came with 16 inch tires and I still had problems with a sidewall bulge and flat, and had to replace all the tires well before I should have if they had been better quality. They were crap, and a real safety hazard! I bought two new Hankooks after the flat last June, then 4 new snowtires after getting stuck in the snow on a hill, then 4 new regular tires after taking off the snowtires, because I didn't want to put back on those crappy Hankooks. Hyundai should be ashamed of themselves for putting those awful tires on the car on the production line, and not taking any responsibility for the extra expenses and safety hazards that they pose.

I think we have to decide what we want. Do we want new tires do we want new cars? Do you want to be paid for mileage for the tires, or we want to be paid before the expenses we use already have paid? I was thinking about approaching the law firm who won the class action lawsuit against Hyundai for the fuel economy suit (which Hyundai lost. ). People, what would make you whole? I'm also thinking that based on the previous lawsuit, no one will see.more than a few hundred dollars after.attorneys fees.

I am also looking into NY states lemon law, which might cover this.

I don't know what I want. I do know that my Elantra will be paid off in Nov 2015, and I've invested in 2 new sets of tires (winter + non-winter) which make me feel a lot more secure driving the car, so I will probably keep mine at least until it's paid off. The likelihood of me purchasing another Hyundai is small to none. I think we all need to report the issues to the links that have been posted earlier. Some sort of compensation for having to purchase new tires much earlier than "warranty" would be nice, but I really want Hyundai to acknowledge the problem and fix it on future models (not that I'll buy one!). Also I just got an email from Hyundai a day or two ago, a survey asking how satisfied I am with my car, and I completed it truthfully.

I am thinking that Costco has an awesome tire Hazard Warranty as part of buying tires there. It includes bulges and everything else for the entire lifetime of the tire. I'm thinking of saddlng them with the expense(and I'll go through with the inconvenience. )..... Or getting a Prius, which is what I really wanted...

I just spoke to Kumho Warranty Services. I have to send a tire inspection report to Kumho. They might reimburse me for part of this,provided that I rotated my tires. I will keep you posted.

Kumho said the warranty is non-transferrable, and they're not liable. I got a set of Michelin Pilot A/S 3 (and an alignment) but I'm looking to get rid of the vehicle. The guy at the tire place said that he alignment was horrible due to driving on the Belt Parkway, last winter and horrible city potholed roads.

I've had the 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT Hatchback going on 13 months now and it's been one headache after another since I bought the car and I'm convinced it's either jinxed or a lemon. I've had to replace 3 tires in the span of 4 months and all I get is the run-around from my dealership trying to point the blame elsewhere. So much for my buying winter tires...I just spent $700 and change on replacing brand new crap tires and feel paranoid about having another flat/blow-out and fear for my safety especially come the slippery winter conditions. I actually considered trading it in for another vehicle and taking a loss!

I have the exact same car, same problem last winter. 3 bubbles and 3 tire replacements in a matter of weeks. The dealer will not help you. Hyundai will not help you. Take all of our advice. Report the problem to Highway Safety, and go spend $1200-1500 and get 15" rims and tires to replace the inappropriate 16" rims and tires on your "upgraded" GT model. Some tire people told me this would not make a difference and some at Hyundai said it would not make a difference. They are all dead wrong. It makes sense to have a thicker tire on the car. I have not had another tire problem in the last 6 months since doing this. It took a while, but I do like my car again. You will take quite a hit on a trade-in. Get new tires and enjoy your panoramic sunroof, your leather heated seats and all the other reasons you picked this car like me. Good luck!

I have the 2010 Elantra Touring SE. Pretty sure it came with the Kuhmo tires everyone has mentioned...but that was so many tires ago it is hard to remember. I complained initially about the ride shortly after buying the car new. They said it was the stiff suspension and would get better with time. For the last couple years I keep getting slow leaks, having the tire sensor come on and been putting air in my tires multiple times a week. I took it elsewhere and the guy said that 3 of the 4 aluminum rims are bad, 2 are bent, and third one is cracked! $400 PER RIM, I've been quoted. Everyone saying the profile size with 17 inch wheels starting to make sense to me. Explains why I have had such longstanding issues. Dealer says they can change to 16inch steel wheel/tire combo for $1,900...or just 3 new replacement rims would be $1,600. Even they told me to go to tire rack and buy them and even ship to them and they'll put then on for me. I want to make sure I make the right decision, it seems like I should go with the 16 inch from tire rack. If I get the tire rack tire/wheel combo I hope I can get the sensors included and save more. Dealer says they are $150 each to change with them. I live in the Boston area with lots of snow and notorious potholes. I have hit many and they are bone-crushing. No wonder the aluminum rims are bent/cracked

Looking to buy a 2013 Elantra GT with 1.8L engine, from another brand dealer-- it was traded in. Not sure what size wheels/tires it has on it, but REALLY GLAD I found this discussion-- THANKS! My specific questions-- Do the mileage adjustment issues for Elantra GT have more to do with the 2.0L or 1.8L engine, and is that adjustment significant for the Elantra GT? If it has the 17" wheels/tires and I decide to put 16" regular profile wheels/tires on, will that do anything to the warranty, and to be sure, will that solve any tire/handling problems? What would work best, steel or aluminum wheels? Does anyone have experience with Les Schwab here in the Northwest? Thanks in advance.

A few more questions-- do the wheels/tires combinations relate to the different reports of mileage (some poor, some great)? Also, would there be any improvement in handling with different rear struts?

All I can answer about now is the ride. Which is greatly improved since I chucked the 17 inch aluminum wheels and put on the 16 inch steel wheels (with hubcaps so it still looks good). I suffered with a terrible ride for so long with this car, I wish I had found this discussion sooner. I took other people's advice here and put on good Michelin tires. Michelin Pilot All Season 205/55/16 speed rating V. Town Fair Tire did this for me without any hassle, saving about $850 from what the dealer quoted me. The ride is SO much better now, I can't believe it.

I just replaced a tire today on my 2013 Elantra GT. Last winter was terrible and I went through about 7 tires - I am dreading the upcoming months. Thank for all your info above, I will be looking at replacing the wheels with a larger size tire - or getting out of the car completely if I can do that. It's a fun car to drive and get great gas mileage, but the tire issue is terrible.

I'm glad everyone is taking our advise on the rim size. So how many of you have received notices about the class action lawsuit of the misrepresentation of the gas mileage on the Elantras? I know it's a different topic, but I'm still curious.

Not sure if I got info about the class action or not, does it apply to 2010's? And I wouldn't say it is completely unrelated...maybe very marginally related. With the old tires/wheels the on-board computer said I got 29 mpg, now it says I get 30mpg....

Hi , hit a pot whole the rims completely cracked. Everyone said this shouldn't happen. They also said it's going to cost a lot and they can't believe it wasn't a worse situation. I just bought my elantra gt 2013. What's the best advice and who to go too

From Hyundai-Forums.com. My post and replies: Hi, I have a 2014 GT with 8700 miles and I have to replace my 4th Nexen tire (215/45-17) due to pot holes here in Long Island, NY. The first tire blew out and the subsequent tires ended up with side wall bubbles to the present day. A local tire shop said it's really not the tires, it's a low profile issue. Tire Rack said pretty much the same, but they recommended a 225/45-17 with an XL rating and V rated speed. The Nexen's are H rated. I saw your post and Okie Rich's about switching to 50 series tires. Does your car have issues with tire rubbing or bottoming out. Specifically if the car is fully loaded (4 people and stuff in the hatch) Also, do the tires rub if the steering is locked in either direction? ...and what about the dreaded Warning from 1010tires.com http://www.1010tires.com/Tools/Tire-...5R17/215-50R17 "WARNING! When changing tire sizes, we recommend staying within 3% of the diameter of the original tire. Any more than this and you face the risk of brake failure." Furthermore, my previous car of 9 years was a 2005 Mazda 3 5dr. which had 205/50-17 V rated tires and I never had a blow out or bubble from a pot hole, and I've driven over many and I went through 2 sets of tires in my ownership. (Goodyear, Dunlop) I feel the 50 series tires would provide more rubber and give if I drive over a pot hole like my Mazda 3. Thanks for your reply, I really appreciate it as I'm so done and frustrated with these Nexen tires. ...and replies: No rubbing whatsoever with 50 tires with some 2 people and heavy equipment. But don't go for 225/50, 215/50 is maximum I would suggest which I currently have. It still has nice handling, and yet has much better comfort. Since you and me both lives in snow belt, 50 tires give enough space to cover the rims as well. Also, it gives excellent ground clearance up to 6 inch. But if you go with 225/45; the difference may or may not be enough for your comfort. In that case of 225/45, I would suggest Michelin primacy MXV4 style expensive grand touring tires that promises good comfort not regular cheap all seasons. There will be a small mpg penalty for having bigger tires but I would definitely take that trade off. Your mpg number will be a bit off on odometer because of calculations are different. Don't believe the statements like your ESC, ABS is going to be off etc. I drove extensively this winter, and my tires handled with charm all conditions I threw at including fully covered snow packed roads etc with no issues with ESC ,ABS. You can also go with 205/50 but it is harder to find tires for it. Replaced continental extreme contact DWS with 12000 miles on them. Snow traction was great but the noise and the ride comfort were terible. The Elantra calls for 215/45/17 tire size, I replaced the continentals with Pirelli Cinturato P7 all season plus (215/50/17) This tire is a little taller, had no trouble with rubbing like some suggested. These Pirelli tires made this elantra feel like a Lexus in ride comfort and noise level. Taller is better. I am so happy to cross over few parking curbs without worrying about clearance, and also not micromanaging ever pothole. So for me, mpg trade off paid off very well. My tires are XL and V rated. Pirelli p7 is very nice tires and it is very comfy, I considered them also but ended up with Nokian All Weather one since it comes with snow flake, and rated for winter use. I am absolutely happy on their snow traction, handling etc.

I filed a complaint on the NHTSA website also at this link: https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/VehicleComplaint/index.xhtml If enough people do this, they will investigate the complaint and a recall may be issued. If everyone who posted on here does this, it is definitely a possibility. PLEASE REPORT TO THIS AGENCY RATHER THAN HYUNDAI WHO WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS UNLESS THEY ARE DIRECTED TO BY A GOVERNMENT AGENCY.

I did file with them on 10-06-14. I also filed with Hyundai. Thanks.

Replaced all 4 tired with Hankook Ventus S1 noble2(Ultra High Performance All-Season) 215/50ZR17. The ride is smoother, but no potholes yet.

i purchased a new 2013 hyundai elantra limited december,2013. over the next several months in noticed the rough ride and excessive road noise. i received no good answer from my local hyundai dealer. at 13,000 miles the hyundai service manager showed me the cupping and tire wear on my hankook tires. no help...i could hear every rotation of the tires,but no vibration. bought 4 new michelin tires and had alignment checked at hyundai dealer. in specs. michelin tires are good (hard rubber and tread),but noisy. at 39,000 miles michelin tires starting same rotation noise. read blog about 17 inch wheels and low profile tires being the problem. (need more rubber on the road). he suggeted changing to the pirelli cinturato p7 all-weather in oversize 215/50/17. others were worried about rubbing. i recently purchased 4 of these tires from discount tire ( $158.00 ea). the ride is great,low road noise. does not look oversize on vehicle. most bumps are cushioned. speedometer reading not changed. gas mileage about 1-2 miles less. extremely pleased after 1,000 miles use. also read about dangerous side shift of rear end after hitting large bump. bought 2 rear KYB shocks online and had them replace factory shocks. works great. another problem was crappy gps software. mounted small garmin gps above steering column using sticky back velcro. works great (10 times better than hyundai gps). the gps/sirius radio screen was useless if the sun was shining on it due to the angle. made a shade out of cardboard (about 12 x 4 inches,angled on front corners (shaped like bat-wing),with square tab in center on back,4 inches wide x 1 inch. this tab sticks in cd slot without activating cd function. widthof cardboard holds shade in place. spray painted flat black. looks ok. now my elantra is like it should be.

Hi Wagener, Glad you are having success with the P7's I almost bought them, but went with the Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 as you read above. So far not one issue. My gas mileage is the same, but it's summer now and that will change in the winter, no fault of the tires. I been thinking about the KYB rear shocks for the reasons you mentioned. What did you pay, where did you buy, and what did it cost? Nice job with the GPS and DIY mount and shade. My 2014 GT does not have the GPS, my smart phone does all that.

I bought the two rear shock for my 2013 hyundai elantra limited from partsgeek.com @ $65.63 each total $131.26 KYB parts #554384 no tax and shipping free. i had to pay a local garage $40 to install. the origial blog that i read stated that the factory shocks felt good,until compressed halfway,then suddenly give way. when hitting a big bump,the first shock to give way,would cause the vehicle to shift that direction.

Hi Wagener, Do you notice a difference with the KYB shocks? Thanks for all the information, I appreciate it.

i traveled some highways with really bad expansion joints that made the rear end slide sideways with the factory shocks. after changing the rear shocks to KYB,i noticed more control over the same bumps. i was only going 55 mph hpoe this helps

Thank you sir, I appreciate your answer and input.

I have a 2011 Elantra Touring, which has under 30k miles on it. We have just have our 3rd tire bubble in need of replacement. The dealer is useless. I spoke to their customer service, and escalated to the floor supervisor, and as all above said, they implied I was the only person with this problem. Clearly the low profile tires are unsafe and if there were a class action suite, I would be there in a flash. With under 30k miles 2 of my tires are worn nearly all the way down to the wear bars. Did I mention that the dealer said there were so many bends and dings in the rims they had to be replaced and could not be balanced properly? So first a question, is there any tire out that that can be put on the current 17 inch rims that is so sturdy and durable that it will not bubble under normal north eastern US use with normal pot holes, so to spare the expense of also replacing the rims? Anyone find a tire so good that they stopped getting sidewall bubbles? Second question, if the only option to insure safety is to get a smaller rim, the help center floor supervisor said I could go with 16 but not 15 inch rims as the car is not rated for 15 inch. Tire rack told me 15 inch would be the best, providing the maximum increase is space between the rim and the road, as well as the maximum air cushion. Will 15 inch tires kill the warranty? Others of you out there who changed rims, did you go to 16 or 15, and if 15, have you been able to do warranty work after? Has anyone switches to 16 inch rims and still have sidewall issues? I guess the bottom line is what is the most cost effective way to make this car safe and prevent side wall bubbles. New 17 inch tires are about $550, will any solve the problem? New tires and rims (16 or 15) are about $1100 (don't forget if you change rims you need new tire pressure sensor gauges and then have to pay to reprogram your car to receive those new signals). I bought this car for the long hall, MANY YEARS to come, what is the most cost effective way to make it safe?

The Pirelli tires in oversize 215/50/17 on my factory 17 inch rims are working great. Now have 6,000 miles on them. Had my free 5,000 mile rotatea and balance at discount tire. no problen found. Ride feels cushioned. My gas mileage is still excellent at 36 mpg average. no problem with tire air presure sensors. speedometer is still accurate. even though tires are oversize,looks great and no rubbing. LOVE my Pirellis.

I'm glad someone had some relief. I ended up selling my Elantra Touring 2011 after a horrible winter of NYC potholed highways. for a loss of $10k. Those potholes required the car to get constant alignments. I gave up hope when I realized a class action lawsuit wouldn't get my $10K+ back. Other Hyundai Class Action Lawsuits netted people at best a few hundred dollars each. I drove Toyotas before my Hyundai, and this experience convinced me to never buy any other brand ever again (for driving in NYC.)

I haven't posted in a while but I get e-mail updates so let me try to help out Happy Jogger. I have the 2010 Elantra Touring. I wanted the heated seats which meant I had to get the SE - sportier version. No problem I thought. I went through so many tires...finally to learn that 3 of my 4 wheels were cracked or bent. I took peoples advice on this blog and went from 16 inch down to 15 inch and bought good Michelin A/S Pilot tires. BUT - I think the most important part, for me, was buying STEEL Wheels, and chucked the bent and broken Aluminum ones. My ride was better for a while, until I found out my struts were shot. I'm happy to say that finally I have a good ride. Get good tires and forget about aluminum wheels - buy steel wheels. After the 8 feet of snow I had in a 21 day period last winter I wasn't fooling around with new england potholes. Around here we have Town Fair Tires and they were fabulous to deal with . Good Luck (oh- my car is closing in on 100k miles!)

Thanks Marco and BlueRain, I'm leaning towards 215/50/17s, and not replacing the rims (due to financial constraints) BUT getting them somewhere with an unconditional road hazard warranty. With a warranty, there will only be annoyance replacing tires with bubbles at no cost. Also, I searched out the names and locations of ALL of Hyundai's executives and with a little help from mail merge sent letters to 11 executives in South Korea, and 13 US executives in CA. I did get one call from a manager in CA who said if I did not like the 17 inch wheels I should not have gotten them and that it was my fault. Totally useless. BUT in addition to contacting the NHTSA, you could consider also writing the following. The first group of executives can be mailed at 12, Heolleung-ro Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-938 South Korea Dr. Mong Koo Chung Hyundia Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer Mr. Byung Kook Lee Hyundia Director Mr. Choong Ho Kim Hyundia Chief Exec. Officer, Pres and Internal Director Mr. Eui Sun Chung Hyundia Vice Chairman Mr. Gap Han Yoon Hyundia Chief Exec. Officer, Pres, Sr. Exec. VP, Director Mr. Jung-Dae Lee Hyundia Chief Financial Officer, Vice Chairman, Ethics Committee Mr. Se Bin Oh Hyundia Director Mr. Sung Il Nam Hyundia Director Mr. Uk Im Tak Hyundia Chief Operating Officer and Exec. VP Mr. You Jae Yi Hyundia Director Mr. You Jae Yi Hyundia Director and for the US executive in CA P.O. Box 20850 Fountain Valley, CA 92728-0850 Dr. Mircea Gradu Hyundia Director of Engineering and Quality Mr. Christopher Chapman Hyundia Chief Designer of the Hyundai Design Center Mr. Christopher Hosford Hyundia Director of Communications Mr. David L. Zuchowski Hyundia Chief Executive Officer and President Mr. Dean L. Evans Hyundia Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President Mr. Frank Ferrara Hyundia FRANK FERRARA Mr. Gilbert Castillo Hyundia Senior Group Manager Advanced Vehicle Strategy Mr. Jae Li Kim Hyundia Group Executive President Mr. Jerry Flannery Hyundia Executive Vice President and General Counsel Mr. Michael J. O’Brien Hyundia Vice President of Corporate and Product Planning Mr. Peter Schreyer Hyundia Motor Group President Mr. Ron Haughey Hyundia Executive Director of Finance Operations Mr. Tom Vanderford Hyundia Tom Vanderford Ms. Ruth Eisen Hyundia Assistant General Counsel, Executive Director Still, after sending those 25 letters, same letter to each, I only received 1 response, telling me it was my fault for purchasing a car with 17 inch tires. I will never purchase another Hyundai again.

I'm sorry the line brakes got lost and my prior posting is one long string, versus separate line items for each executive, I guess that formatting is not an option, hope the above is useful anyway.

I decided to jump back on here after I first started talking about the Elantra tire issues I had over 4 years ago. Believe it or not I actually leased another new Elanta for my father since he was having issues at his age parking his 2013 Sonata. I, myself still own a 2013 Sonata and being my 6th I love it! The Elantra still not as much. This time I went with a middle of the road model and made SURE it didn't have the 17" wheels and tires on it. It's a decent car BUT although I haven't had a tire issue yet the drive is nothing like the Sonata. It's bumpy. So I finally concluded after all these years it's not ONLY the low profile tire issue it's their damn suspension. On perfect roads it's a great car! But here in Chicago we have horrible streets even in the summer. I feel every damn little bump in that car. It's another lease so I'm not spending money to put better shocks or whatever it needs to drive smoothly. We have about 1500 miles on it after 6 months now (yeah I know we rarely drive it) but it's good for my 80 year old father to go back and forth to the store. I'm so glad to see the revolt I started so many years ago about this car still being brought up. And congrats to the person that got ALL those major names to complain about this car. It really is a tire AND suspension issue. I'm just glad at least by going to a 16" tire we haven't had a bubble or tire blow yet, and I doubt we will unless it's a HUGE pothole this year. But it's still a very stiff riding car and I really don't recommend it to anyone doing a lot of big city driving. Get a Sonata. If it's a little out of your price range get one 2-3 years old. We've had 6 now and ZERO problems. NONE. But get the ones with the 16" wheels and tires on those too. The Sonata has a MUCH better suspension but I've heard the same issues with people that got the Sonata with the 17-18" wheels. Low profile tires do NOT belong on these type of cars. These are not sport cars no matter what type of low profile tires they put on or call them Sport additions or whatever. The Elantra really can't handle anything but smooth roads in my opinion. Even if I'm not going through tires they are still a rough ride on bumpy streets. Don B (Chicago)

I leased a brand new 2012 Elantra GLS in July 2011 & had to replace the stock tires after 7K miles. I never had a flat or bulge; they just wore out. I leased a brand new 2013 Elantra GT with the 17" rims in March 2014 because I got a great deal. My stepdaughter hit a curb at 35 mph and the tire went flat. I replaced all four tires with Continental ExtremeContact DWS & they have been wonderful - I live in southwest PA and have made it up hills around trucks and stuck cars. My complaint is after 14,000 miles they're all bald and need replaced. My lease is up in 11 months and as much as I love this car, the tire issue definitely needs resolved. My husband has a 2014 Sonata that still has the stock tires with 21K on them and no issues.

Here is my follow up report, 5 months, 5000 miles and a winter later. I did get 215/50VR17s as suggested stepping up the size a notch from the factory specification of 205/50VR17. Plenty of clearance in the wheel wells. But I took one other step in addition to the suggestion of increasing the tire size. I got XL rated tires for extra load. My rational was that if the tires could handle much more weight, they were less likely to be pushed down so far the rim would hit the side wall and cause a bubble. 5 months, 5000 miles and no bubbles. So between the increased size and highest possible load rating, no issues, and I made it through a NY pothole winter. I did also invest in the road hazard warranty for $16 more per tire, just in case, as extra protection, but have not used it and hope I won’t have to. For you information I purchased General Altimax RT42, rated for 65,000 miles, 700AA. Make sure you get the XL rated version, not the regular version. These tires were very highly rated by both TireRack.com and Consumer Reports. Got them at Mavis. Good luck everybody.

I have a 2012 Elantra touring SE which I bought used in June 2014 with 8000 miles on it. Currently has 26,000 miles and the original Kumho P215/45R17 tires. The car ride comfort is horrible - I feel every pebble in the road. And they are now to the point of needing replacement due to wear (even though I have had dealer rotate tires) and now one has a small bubble. In all my years of driving I have NEVER experienced such poor tire performance. Also the rear shocks were replaced (under warranty) at 16500 miles. When I questioned the short life of these shocks the tech said this car has a solid rear axle so when I hit a pothole on one side it affects both sides. In the old days most cars I drove (with rear wheel drive) had a solid rear axle and the shocks lasted a lot longer than 16500 miles. Anyway back to the tires - I want to downsize wheels to either 15" or 16" and mount appropriate tires to soften the ride without screwing up the handling. I have discussed with a dealer if this can be done since the GLS model had 15" standard and 16" optional and I was told I can do this. Has anyone gone to 15" wheels and what was the result regarding handling? Any other problems with alignment, etc? Any thoughts on Steel versus aluminum wheels as to which is better? I am a Cooper tire fan and currently plan to mount Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring - but does anyone have any experience with Continental Pure Contact? Thanks for any input on this.

After 1 blowout and 3 sidewall bubbles within 1 year on my brand new 2014 Elantra GT, I replaced all 4 NEXEN OEM tires with Hankook Ventus S1 noble2(Ultra High Performance All- Season) 215/50ZR17. The ride is smoother, normal potholes and regular road irregularities are no longer an issue. These tires fit the OEM rim without issues even though the sidewall height is slightly taller. (45 series to a 50 series) http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp? tireMake=Hankook&tireModel=Ventus+S1+noble2&partnum=15 WR7H452XL&vehicleSearch=false&fromCompare1=yes

Radaral - Hope this helps you out. I have a 2010 Elantra Touring. I felt every pebble in the road too, I also thought the ride was horrible. After a while it seemed like I had to put air in my tires constantly. I was told 3 of the 4 aluminum wheels were no good. 2 were bent, 1 was cracked through. I did a few things... I bought 4 new steel wheels, and 4 new really good Michelin Tires, and I went from 17 inch to 16 inch. I made all these changes based on a lot of research at the time and talking to my Hyunadai shop. I thought about going from 17 to 15, but they said that would be too drastic a change and would affect the ride. I have to say the ride changed dramatically and I went from hating my car, to loving it again, like I did when it was new. Here in the northeast we have an outlet called Town Fair Tire, and I think the 4 new wheels, 4 new tires, and all the tire sensors and balancing, alignment, etc, cost me about $950. This even included tire insurance which I used when I went over a nail and got the new tire very cheap (based on prorated use of the tire with a nail in it). Best $950 I ever spent. Wish I had done it sooner.

I first leased a 2012 Elantra and within 6K miles I had to replace all the tires - they were the cheapest Continental tires. I replaced them with Contintental Extreme Contact and they were fabulous. Never had another tire issue in snow, sleet, etc. I then leased a 2013 Elantra GT in 2014. My stepdaughter was learning to drive and went over the edge of a sidewalk and blew out the right front tire. I only owned the car two months. I decided to replace all four tires with Continental's again and I was very, very happy with them (the stock Nexen's were not good). I ran those tires for about 18k - the middle of the tires all wore down to nothing, but those tires had me passing 4WD vehicles up a snowy two mile mountain with cars stuck all over the road. I had every intention of purchasing this vehicle when my lease is up in March, but I'm in need of tires again before winter. I was going to buy 16" rims and 16" tires, but when I found out that the residual is 3K over the current value of the car (I have 23K miles, Tech package and every single extra item you can get on the GT - I am in love with this car). I'm in a dilemma because if I need tires now, but if they should work with me on the buyout, I'll be stuck with 17" tires again that will need replaced within a 15 months. I was going to buy the Michelin A/S 87V to see how they work. Living in southwest PA, I need all seasons that have high ratings for snow/ice - that's my priority over everything else. Anyone have any experience with these tires? I won't go with the MXM4's because of their low rating for snow/ice.

Hi Michelle, Which ever tire brand you go with I highly recommend going with a slightly higher profile size. As I wrote 4 entries above. 215/45-17 to a 215/50-17. This made a world of difference for the better. Hope this helps.

I need to replace the 17" wheels and tires on my daughter's 2013 Elantra GT. Can I have this done by a local tire shop or will it void my warranty if I do not have this done at Hyundai?

Hi Cynthia, No, it will not void your warranty. Just make sure the wheels and tires are the correct size. Make sure the tire installer is reputable and get a receipt. Also, Which ever tire brand you go with I highly recommend going with a slightly higher profile size. As I wrote 5 entries above. 215/45-17 to a 215/50-17. This made a world of difference for the better. Hope this helps.

Hi Jon. Do You think is it possible to put 215/55r17 or 225/50r17 on those 17 sport package rims on Elantra GT 2013. Thank You for Your help

Hi Piotr, I would think that both those sizes would be either too tall of a profile or too wide. If the tires fit the rim you may experience tire rubbing in the wheel well. More research is needed to see if those tire sizes will work. However, I do know that 215/50-17 does work. Hope this helps.

I'm joining the revolt. I had to buy new tires after less than 10K miles on a new Elantra GT ...17 tires. I bought top of the line all weather times and two & 20K miles later I need new tires. Ridiculous! I'm gonna trade this car in. There IS a tire AND suspension issue; and now I am concerned for my kids driving this car.

Hi all, I have a 2016 Elantra GT and have been having tire issues galore. I have over 89k miles, hwy 30+ miles each way to work, curvy Oregon coast road. Original tires on 17" rims went bald in under 18k miles. Dealer wanted over 500 for replacement, been going to Discount tire. Don't recall first tire brand I put on, although I ended up with Michelin Fire and Ice on 16" rims for winter. Fantastic tires, I can drive 40-50 in snow and pass everyone uphill with no issues. Fast forward a bit, put on some Falken tires per tire dealer advice and half way through warranty had to replace with more Falken tires. Have put on new front and back suspension, cat back exhaust and CAI for increased power and mileage. Now looking to replace tires and upgrade. You all have me thinking I should either go down to 16" rims, like the winter tires or 50 aspect instead of the 45. thinking Continental or Yokohama. Will update