Loved how he explained the tradeoff between tread life (miles) vs. every day performance, especially in rain. Larger groves = more siphoning but this also equals less road contact which increases the wear rate on the tread that does contact the road. These tires sacrifice this by having smaller and more groves, but equals a much longer tread life. Great, honest and simple review! Thank you!
Got these for my wifes Equinox and they are ultra quiet and very plushy. Almost like pillows or clouds on the road. Ill get a set for my Corolla when its current tires wear out. My old truck and father inlaws Bronco have large Defender Ltx Ms tires on them, they make the vehicles ride like luxury cars. Michelin Defenders are the best tires when it comes to daily driven vehicles
Have these tires on my Lexus Es350, and I will probably be buying them again. Very smooth quiet ride and never had an issue with traction in wet conditions
6 years ago I bought a Chevy Tahoe from a friend which had just put these tires on and I am still riding on one of them and they handle damn good at 80 mph in the rain no kidding I am return customer for life now
Bought 4 Defender 2's in April. Very quiet, excellent handling and no drop in mpg as some have claimed. Only issue (not just with Michelin)....I hate low-profile tires. '21 Avalon came with 235/40R19, and after queries to Toyota and other reputable sources, there's no way to move away from that size without possibly causing mechanical harm and incorrect instrument readings.
Have these tires as summer tires on my 15 honda odyssey 18 inch. Second summer and these tires perform better than the other brands I used. Due to my job I do a lot of driving and within the second season those tires will wear out fast. The defender 2 tires in my second season for summer looks as if it was never used. First winter before swapping out for my winter tires these defender 2 do well with light snow. Not recommended for all seasons if you live in a climate with significant snow. Thank God last winter was extremely light then other years.
@GrowthGangSid Only update is I think they are great tires, and I'd highly recommend them. Only twice since April have I needed to add a touch of air. With my Bridgestone Turanzas and Goodyear Eagles, it seemed like I was adding air every week or so. And no leaks were ever detected at the stems or anywhere else.
I just got these tires today for my 2022 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD. I only drove for about 10 minutes and in the rain, here in WA state, but cannot wait to test it out during my every day driving. But so far, I like these.
Nice explanation of the tire. Just bought a set for my Rav4 based on recommendation from Tire Discounters sales person. My criteria was: Long life, wet traction, under $225/tire. Looks like they steered me right.
Michelin’s are well worth the price if you are piling on the miles on your vehicle. How about some reviews on some Bridgestone truck tires. Keep the videos coming!
They really work too , igo back and forth between Greenville North Carolina in Raleigh NC and let me tell you You're awesome in the rain 80 mph no lie, still riding on one of them 6 years later
I have the same question. Firestone is suggesting the bridgestone quiettrack. Discount Tire says get the Michelin Defender 2. Now, you mentioned here that this tire might not be so good in wet weather but will last longer. Isn't safety more important than longevity?
@@Biggerbyte I’ve had no issues in the rain. I was burned by a set of Bridgestone Dueler’s a few years ago so I’ve been boycotting them ever since. I did break down and buy a set of Blizzak’s last season, deal was too good to pass up!
For longevity it’s a great tire. No question about that. However, for traction, comfort, noise - quite simply there are other more advanced tires available. Michelin designed these tires for long term mileage and longevity. They make other tires that don’t last as long but far exceed its traction and comfort capabilities.
Many thanks for the comment regarding less than best in class for rain performance, I live in Oregon. Regarding symmetrical vs non symmetrical groove patterns and their rotation issues, I've never heard anything about that. Any chance you think the issue might be worth a video of it's own? Many thanks for all the great work you're putting into the channel.
3hr commute every day, all highway miles. Trying to decide between the Defender and CrossClimate2 for a Mazda CX5 Turbo - seems CC2 is better traction and Defender is a softer ride.
Can we get a look at the new Cooper Stronghold AT? Also, in a past video you pressed down in the middle of the tires to show their strength. That is a good visual I think you should bring back.
I am about a year away from new tires. I currently have the GY Assurance Comfordrive. They have been ok but not much road feel. I am weighing my options between the Defender and Cross Climate 2 for my CRV.
@@drivewayhero I had the Crosscontact LX Sport on 2 separate CRV's (factory tires) and hated them. Possibly an unfair across the board judgement on my part but they turned me off on Continental as a future purchase.
@@raygowan1968 oh yeah shoot that would turn me from a brand too but just know that a lot of stock oem tires are garbage. Continental does make some better models like the extremecontact dws06+ or the crosscontact ltx25. People rave about those extremecontacts...
@@raygowan1968the LX Sport tires are not comparable to the LX25. It’s like comparing apples to bananas. Completely different line of tires with different metrics. The LX25 is one of the best tires on the market. However in your case I’d avoid the Defender 2 as they are a mediocre to average tire at best. The Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your best bet for comfort, traction, and noise.
What is going to be softer riding between this, General Altimax RT45, Cooper Endeavor? I need an all season that is going to absorb as imperfections of the road to help with my back pain.
Out of those choices you’d need to consider the Cooper Endeavor Plus. Not the regular Endeavor, must be the Endeavor Plus. They are very soft and quiet. The General and Michelin Defender 2 are good tires but have a much firmer and less refined ride than that of the Endeavor Plus.
@@SRPGshopContinental without hesitation. As a Subaru owner myself, I follow the forums constantly and there’s a bizarre love for the Defender 2 on those forums. The problem is that the Defender 2 tires are mediocre to average at best. They are long lasting but comfort, noise, and traction are significantly worse than the LX25 tires. The difference is very noticeable. I’m a consultant for a large marketing firm and work with engineers and aftermarket research and development firms that specialize in the automotive industry. The Continental tires are hands down the better choice.
I love these type of vids. Also you're not lying michelins are pretty much the most expensive tires i was curious i look up the price for ps4 all season vs the continental dwso6 plus the 06 plus is 100 dollars cheaper with a longer mile warranty
The Defender LTX M/S 2 has a little more rugged tread pattern compared to the Defender 2. There is also an LTX M/S 2 (non-Defender) version. Can get confusing. The Defender LTX M/S 2 is only available in XL load, no SL. Defender (tire in this video) is available in both SL and XL depending on size/profile. XL may ride a bit harsher due to a 2 ply sidewall, compared to 1 ply for an SL rated tire.
@@Nick91768 thanks for the clarification on the tires. I just ordered the defender ltx ms2 from Costco for my half ton Chevy last week. Told them just wanted regular passenger tire. Didn’t even notice the xl on my invoice I don’t know I even need this tire now lol. I only tow small boat on occasion and carry an atv in the bed as well. And certainly don’t need to be losing any mileage too! Thanks again.
I think you ordered the correct tire for your application, you are better off with the extra load so you can increase the PSI for towing.,Let me know how the tires ride at OEM PSI (36?), I may be getting the same ones for my 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee.@@Cornpop-xh9wp
Man i really fell into thebrabbit hole with these videos you make. I was not interested at all in tires but I needed some found your videos and you really make it interesting. I have a couple of ideas for you for future videos: explain whatbthe 3peak mountain snow symbol really means.. do all tires with it work better in snow? I imagine a non 3pms rated winter tire would be better in the snow vs an all season tire with the rating..? So how do we compare. Also i love the comparison vids and would really love to see one for cargo vans. Ypu could also break down e and c rated tires and how they ride differently and how the rating might inform a tire choice, maybe a certain tire is great in a c rated version but the e rated version is stiffer than the compation or something. Also i would love to see a video on budget brands, hiw thry stack up but also why they often aren't worth it. And finally. I would REALLY love a video about if brand names are important quality indicators vs product lines, like comparing a budget brand or mid tier brands high end model, vs a top tier brand's budget line. Is there some logic there that is fairly universal innthe industry or not? Again, i really love the videos, honestly i still wouldn't really care much about tires if i hadn't stumbled upon your videos breaking down what those tread blocks mean and why.. Thanks for making them!
Great questions! The 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol means a tire meets the standards for severe snow traction, but there’s a difference-dedicated winter tires (like the Blizzak WS90) will always outperform all-season 3PMS-rated tires because of softer compounds and deeper tread. All-weather tires are a solid middle ground. For cargo vans, E-rated tires are stiffer and handle heavier loads (best for towing or hauling), while C-rated tires offer a smoother, more comfortable ride for lighter loads. When it comes to brand names vs product lines, premium brands like Michelin and Bridgestone offer better technology, consistency, and durability. Their budget lines are still reliable, while mid-tier brands (like Cooper) balance performance and value. Cheaper budget brands often sacrifice longevity or safety, so it’s important to weigh your priorities.
I would like to see a comparison between Yokohama geolander A/T GO15 vs Michigan Defender 2 for my 2wd F150. Highway dry and rain conditions. Thank you
The Defender 2 is not typically a truck tire. It’s more of a car and crossover tire with average ratings for traction and comfort. The Yokohama tires you speak of will be notably noisier as it’s an all terrain tire. While it will have decent traction, its focus is more for off road ability. My recommendation is the Continental TerrainContact H/T. It is one of the quietest and best traction you can get in a tire for your truck.
How do these compare to the Michelin Primacy MXV4’s? I drive a 2018 Nissan Altima 2.5SL and they had the Primacy tires when I bought it new. I am trying to determine which one has a quieter ride, more grip, and best overall performance. Thank you.
I really thought all tires are the same, it just the price difference. When I bought 2x the price that I regularly bought. The feel of it is quite different, I can feel the comfort that comes with it. I might get these Michilen tires, it has a positive reviews from the consumers.
I know you are not a huge fan of Falken tires but I would like to know your opinion on the wildpeak ht02 and if any one has ran these tires I would love your feedback on them
Saw this tire on my coworkers ram 1500 size 275/55/20 i have 22 inch rims so I'm looking to get the 285/45/22 i do city driving no off road and it hasn't snowed in few years here in NC but this tire still says rated for mud/snow
Hard pass on these for a truck. The shallow tread depth and tread design is not really manufactured for a truck. I’d recommend a good highway terrain tire, not a car touring tire.
Because this tire doesn’t focus on traction. Its focus is longevity. This tire is merely average at traction, noise, and comfort. If your focus is quiet and excellent traction the Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your best bet.
Recommendation for quiet/comfortable highway tire for 2022 4Runner. Michelin Defender, Toyota OC, Cooper, Continental?? What is difference between the Defender mS2 and LTX MS??
The Continental TerrainContact H/T. That’s the answer to your question. Best highway tire on the market currently. Noise, traction, comfort are all phenomenal and exceed Michelin.
I have been lookn at these but Walmart site says they're XL rather than SL ! (Only Walmart claims this ) Also the Nokian One's have almost identical design! Any thoughts? And of course there is the Continental corss contact lx25 ! Its for a 2021 fwd Chevy Traverse lt 255/65/18 Please advice me to choose im lost ! Thank you in advance, Sir.
The LX25 is a MUCH better tire is nearly every metric. Traction, comfort, and noise are significantly better on the Continental. The Defender 2 is a mediocre to average tire at best.
Guess I am old school, but the tread depth on these and other tires like this is not what I want for my money. Just seems so shallow. Thank you for the review.
If a tire can save your life on a rainy day but gives you less tire tread wear vs one that gives you double tread wear but doesn’t save your life from an accident then which one is a better tire.
Not well. These tires do NOT focus on traction whether it be on snow, ice or rain. These tires are designed for longevity. If you want winter traction, the Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your tire.
It’s not. It’s a mediocre to average tire with a focus on longevity. It has lower than average ratings for traction and comfort. I’d avoid these tires unless you want a long lasting tire. Even then, there are better long lasting tires available.
Look for the Primacy all season tires as something that will give you significantly more traction in every degree, at some compromise of long life and a bit of comfort/noise, but without the need for a short-life summer tire that gets dismal mpg and generates tons of noise. It's a more well rounded tire for sports sedans. I'd stick with Defenders for more low performance motoring vehicles that don't have much power.
People that understand tires know that the Defender series of tires are just an average tire. Nothing great about them. Michelin does make GREAT tires, the Defender 2 just isn’t one of them.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 My understanding of tires is below average. My personal experience with Defender 1 LTX on my Suburban 2013 was amazing. Quiet & smooth. I now have 2022 Suburban. Which tires would be better for my SUV. Better than Defender 2? Thanks for your help.
@@radiohead2206 it’s important to know that the Defender LTX series are different than from what is being reviewed in this video. The Defender LTX are great tires for your Suburban. The other choices I’d consider are the Continental TerrainContact H/T, and Bridgestone Dueler LX. All 3 of these tires are pretty much neck and neck for performance as they are all highway tires designed for trucks/large vehicles.
I have the defenders 2 on my wife's suv and Defender ltx m/s on my truck. They are both very quiet and comfortable and they both have great wet/dry traction. For everyday use the Defender2 are great tires and I will be getting them again for my Corolla once it's current tires wear out.
@@mr.boostang2064 you picked two great tires for most people’s needs. The Defender 2 is a very long lasting tire so you’ll be in great shape! Thanks for commenting.
I bought a set of these and I was really disappointed they did not last 35,000 me and I had them rotated on my 2014 Dodge 2500 truck and I even bought oversized tires and I sucked
BEST tires I've ever owned for most all conditions .. for deep snow I simply use cable chains. WET traction is superb. ... Only problem is that they are very sensitive to wheel misalignment; and, if not 'watched' continuously; thus, are easily subject to 'cupping' on the outside margin. The correction/prevention is to rotate them every ~6k miles. My vehicles all have front and rear differentials; so, to prevent adverse differential wear is (for me) to rotate FIVE tires to ensure that I always have an ~equally worn tread depth (on all five !!!). There is NO difference in the prior direction of rotation; thus, fully compatible with rotation of FIVE tires. They do get somewhat 'noisey' at the end of their in-service life.
Loved how he explained the tradeoff between tread life (miles) vs. every day performance, especially in rain. Larger groves = more siphoning but this also equals less road contact which increases the wear rate on the tread that does contact the road. These tires sacrifice this by having smaller and more groves, but equals a much longer tread life. Great, honest and simple review! Thank you!
Got these for my wifes Equinox and they are ultra quiet and very plushy. Almost like pillows or clouds on the road. Ill get a set for my Corolla when its current tires wear out. My old truck and father inlaws Bronco have large Defender Ltx Ms tires on them, they make the vehicles ride like luxury cars. Michelin Defenders are the best tires when it comes to daily driven vehicles
My girlfriends has them in her Honda civic and she said the same thing. They feel like plushy clouds.
Have these tires on my Lexus Es350, and I will probably be buying them again. Very smooth quiet ride and never had an issue with traction in wet conditions
We have seen these glide over a foot of fresh powder after a blizzard
My Defender 1’s are just about to hit 100k miles. I hope the D2’s can hold up.
This guy knows his stuff. Great video and very informative analysis of what makes up a good (Michelin) tire
6 years ago I bought a Chevy Tahoe from a friend which had just put these tires on and I am still riding on one of them and they handle damn good at 80 mph in the rain no kidding I am return customer for life now
Can't wait to use these tires. Michelin does an outstanding job and the longevity is isane!!
Got a set for my wifes 2012 Toyota Camry . The ride is quite smooth and handling is real good. I will get a set for my Toyota Avalon when its time
I have on my 2012 honda accord lx and man oh man my gf sleeps like a baby when I’m driving on the highway cause it’s so quiet and smooth
Bought 4 Defender 2's in April. Very quiet, excellent handling and no drop in mpg as some have claimed. Only issue (not just with Michelin)....I hate low-profile tires. '21 Avalon came with 235/40R19, and after queries to Toyota and other reputable sources, there's no way to move away from that size without possibly causing mechanical harm and incorrect instrument readings.
Have these tires as summer tires on my 15 honda odyssey 18 inch. Second summer and these tires perform better than the other brands I used. Due to my job I do a lot of driving and within the second season those tires will wear out fast.
The defender 2 tires in my second season for summer looks as if it was never used.
First winter before swapping out for my winter tires these defender 2 do well with light snow. Not recommended for all seasons if you live in a climate with significant snow.
Thank God last winter was extremely light then other years.
I believe the answer is generally yes. But ask your dealer or mechanic because it may be a problem with some suspension systems.
@GrowthGangSid Only update is I think they are great tires, and I'd highly recommend them. Only twice since April have I needed to add a touch of air. With my Bridgestone Turanzas and Goodyear Eagles, it seemed like I was adding air every week or so. And no leaks were ever detected at the stems or anywhere else.
I just got these tires today for my 2022 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD. I only drove for about 10 minutes and in the rain, here in WA state, but cannot wait to test it out during my every day driving. But so far, I like these.
These reviews are amazing sir genuine tire information and it’s not just regurgitated A+
Never tried these but heard lots of good things about Michelin Defenders. I hope they handle as good as they comfort the ride experience.
amazing review, comprehensive, expert knowledge, great detail(well done). Promote this man!!
Excellent review, no fluff all business! 👍
review by looking at the tire NOT driving it? I pass.
Sold...ordering from Costco now. LOL! Thank you brother.
I just got these from Costco today! Best decision. Plus these are my first Michelin tires. So I'm excited to see how long they will last!
Nice explanation of the tire. Just bought a set for my Rav4 based on recommendation from Tire Discounters sales person.
My criteria was: Long life, wet traction, under $225/tire. Looks like they steered me right.
Love this style of reviews
Absolutely. No crap, no music. Get it done dammit
Michelin’s are well worth the price if you are piling on the miles on your vehicle. How about some reviews on some Bridgestone truck tires. Keep the videos coming!
Love the wide circumvential grooves for deep standing water.
They really work too , igo back and forth between Greenville North Carolina in Raleigh NC and let me tell you You're awesome in the rain 80 mph no lie, still riding on one of them 6 years later
Man knows his tires! 🫡
just bought for my honda accord 2012 LX . So excited!!!!
I got these tires for my 2023 tesla model 3.. what an upgrade!
Did you lose much range
@@rondavis2791 nope.. even think it might be a little better, its hard to tell, because we went in to cooler weather..
Still waiting for the Michelin Defender LTX M/S2
Same here
Why? That’s the tire I’m looking at, but was just curious
the ltx ms is better
Best overall tire out there
Put these on my Honda Accord last May. Great tires!
Should I put them on my 2012 honda accord? Debating whether I should get these.
@@eriksalgadoalvarez8209I’m really pleased with them!
@@eriksalgadoalvarez8209just did and it’s awesome
I have the same question. Firestone is suggesting the bridgestone quiettrack. Discount Tire says get the Michelin Defender 2.
Now, you mentioned here that this tire might not be so good in wet weather but will last longer. Isn't safety more important than longevity?
@@Biggerbyte I’ve had no issues in the rain. I was burned by a set of Bridgestone Dueler’s a few years ago so I’ve been boycotting them ever since. I did break down and buy a set of Blizzak’s last season, deal was too good to pass up!
Very helpful video. Subscribed. thanks for posting! :D
Got almost 90k on first set. 60 on my truck and 30 on my buddy. Hands down the best truck/suv tire.
For longevity it’s a great tire. No question about that. However, for traction, comfort, noise - quite simply there are other more advanced tires available. Michelin designed these tires for long term mileage and longevity. They make other tires that don’t last as long but far exceed its traction and comfort capabilities.
can you do a video on the crossclimate 2? they are kinda reinventing what a all season can be even has the 3 peak certification.
Many thanks for the comment regarding less than best in class for rain performance, I live in Oregon. Regarding symmetrical vs non symmetrical groove patterns and their rotation issues, I've never heard anything about that. Any chance you think the issue might be worth a video of it's own? Many thanks for all the great work you're putting into the channel.
It's not as good as the Michelin CrossClimate2 in the rain. That tire will stop you sooner. But this isn't no slouch.
The first model was very reliable and performed well but my my size was expensive. These are probably more expensive.
Love you channel, can you do video on Toyos HT02 , Falken HT02 and Michelins
3hr commute every day, all highway miles. Trying to decide between the Defender and CrossClimate2 for a Mazda CX5 Turbo - seems CC2 is better traction and Defender is a softer ride.
Can we get a look at the new Cooper Stronghold AT?
Also, in a past video you pressed down in the middle of the tires to show their strength.
That is a good visual I think you should bring back.
What a nice review
Thank you, I learned a few things
I am about a year away from new tires. I currently have the GY Assurance Comfordrive. They have been ok but not much road feel.
I am weighing my options between the Defender and Cross Climate 2 for my CRV.
I've had the defenders on a 97 lincoln town car, and they where awesome. I had no complaints. I live in the snow belt 😊
Get the crosscontact ltx25
@@drivewayhero I had the Crosscontact LX Sport on 2 separate CRV's (factory tires) and hated them. Possibly an unfair across the board judgement on my part but they turned me off on Continental as a future purchase.
@@raygowan1968 oh yeah shoot that would turn me from a brand too but just know that a lot of stock oem tires are garbage. Continental does make some better models like the extremecontact dws06+ or the crosscontact ltx25. People rave about those extremecontacts...
@@raygowan1968the LX Sport tires are not comparable to the LX25. It’s like comparing apples to bananas. Completely different line of tires with different metrics. The LX25 is one of the best tires on the market. However in your case I’d avoid the Defender 2 as they are a mediocre to average tire at best. The Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your best bet for comfort, traction, and noise.
What is going to be softer riding between this, General Altimax RT45, Cooper Endeavor?
I need an all season that is going to absorb as imperfections of the road to help with my back pain.
Out of those choices you’d need to consider the Cooper Endeavor Plus. Not the regular Endeavor, must be the Endeavor Plus. They are very soft and quiet. The General and Michelin Defender 2 are good tires but have a much firmer and less refined ride than that of the Endeavor Plus.
Will you please review the new tires below:
Cooper Discoverer Stronghold AT
Yokohama Geolandar AT/4
Thank you! You are awesome at reviewing tires!
what is the difference between the defender 2 and the defender 2 cuv?
Got them. Buyer Beware. Got two made in Mexico and two made in USA mounted on my car. We shall see how this works out. Thanks Wal Marts....
Dang, wish companies payed closer attention to sets of 4 tires being shipped
Mexico has a large tire productions and warehouse HQ for the entire North America.
I have these as my first replacement set on my 2021 Subaru Forester. Installed at 57000 miles. The OEM tires were Falken Ziex
Are they quieter
@@markt3440 I haven’t heard much road noise.
Trying to decide between these and the continental crosscontact lx25 for my forester
@@SRPGshopContinental without hesitation. As a Subaru owner myself, I follow the forums constantly and there’s a bizarre love for the Defender 2 on those forums. The problem is that the Defender 2 tires are mediocre to average at best. They are long lasting but comfort, noise, and traction are significantly worse than the LX25 tires. The difference is very noticeable. I’m a consultant for a large marketing firm and work with engineers and aftermarket research and development firms that specialize in the automotive industry. The Continental tires are hands down the better choice.
Had these on my F150 ,probably the best tire bc KO2 that I have now beats these only in looks
I love these type of vids. Also you're not lying michelins are pretty much the most expensive tires i was curious i look up the price for ps4 all season vs the continental dwso6 plus the 06 plus is 100 dollars cheaper with a longer mile warranty
You get what you pay for... that's all I'll say here.
Where are they manufactured?
US
So, this is a different tire from the defender ltx ms2? I’m losing track of all the acronyms for these tires that are so similar to one another
The Defender LTX M/S 2 has a little more rugged tread pattern compared to the Defender 2. There is also an LTX M/S 2 (non-Defender) version. Can get confusing. The Defender LTX M/S 2 is only available in XL load, no SL. Defender (tire in this video) is available in both SL and XL depending on size/profile. XL may ride a bit harsher due to a 2 ply sidewall, compared to 1 ply for an SL rated tire.
@@Nick91768 thanks for the clarification on the tires. I just ordered the defender ltx ms2 from Costco for my half ton Chevy last week. Told them just wanted regular passenger tire. Didn’t even notice the xl on my invoice I don’t know I even need this tire now lol. I only tow small boat on occasion and carry an atv in the bed as well. And certainly don’t need to be losing any mileage too! Thanks again.
I think you ordered the correct tire for your application, you are better off with the extra load so you can increase the PSI for towing.,Let me know how the tires ride at OEM PSI (36?), I may be getting the same ones for my 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee.@@Cornpop-xh9wp
Do you have a review compared to the Defender Platinum and comparison against the MS?
Man i really fell into thebrabbit hole with these videos you make. I was not interested at all in tires but I needed some found your videos and you really make it interesting. I have a couple of ideas for you for future videos: explain whatbthe 3peak mountain snow symbol really means.. do all tires with it work better in snow? I imagine a non 3pms rated winter tire would be better in the snow vs an all season tire with the rating..? So how do we compare.
Also i love the comparison vids and would really love to see one for cargo vans. Ypu could also break down e and c rated tires and how they ride differently and how the rating might inform a tire choice, maybe a certain tire is great in a c rated version but the e rated version is stiffer than the compation or something.
Also i would love to see a video on budget brands, hiw thry stack up but also why they often aren't worth it.
And finally. I would REALLY love a video about if brand names are important quality indicators vs product lines, like comparing a budget brand or mid tier brands high end model, vs a top tier brand's budget line. Is there some logic there that is fairly universal innthe industry or not?
Again, i really love the videos, honestly i still wouldn't really care much about tires if i hadn't stumbled upon your videos breaking down what those tread blocks mean and why.. Thanks for making them!
Great questions! The 3-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMS) symbol means a tire meets the standards for severe snow traction, but there’s a difference-dedicated winter tires (like the Blizzak WS90) will always outperform all-season 3PMS-rated tires because of softer compounds and deeper tread. All-weather tires are a solid middle ground. For cargo vans, E-rated tires are stiffer and handle heavier loads (best for towing or hauling), while C-rated tires offer a smoother, more comfortable ride for lighter loads. When it comes to brand names vs product lines, premium brands like Michelin and Bridgestone offer better technology, consistency, and durability. Their budget lines are still reliable, while mid-tier brands (like Cooper) balance performance and value. Cheaper budget brands often sacrifice longevity or safety, so it’s important to weigh your priorities.
I would like to see a comparison between Yokohama geolander A/T GO15 vs Michigan Defender 2 for my 2wd F150. Highway dry and rain conditions. Thank you
The Defender 2 is not typically a truck tire. It’s more of a car and crossover tire with average ratings for traction and comfort. The Yokohama tires you speak of will be notably noisier as it’s an all terrain tire. While it will have decent traction, its focus is more for off road ability. My recommendation is the Continental TerrainContact H/T. It is one of the quietest and best traction you can get in a tire for your truck.
How do these compare to the Michelin Primacy MXV4’s? I drive a 2018 Nissan Altima 2.5SL and they had the Primacy tires when I bought it new. I am trying to determine which one has a quieter ride, more grip, and best overall performance. Thank you.
Do they really last 6 years/80K miles??
I really thought all tires are the same, it just the price difference. When I bought 2x the price that I regularly bought. The feel of it is quite different, I can feel the comfort that comes with it. I might get these Michilen tires, it has a positive reviews from the consumers.
I know you are not a huge fan of Falken tires but I would like to know your opinion on the wildpeak ht02 and if any one has ran these tires I would love your feedback on them
It would be nice for you to review the Patagonia AT Pro
Saw this tire on my coworkers ram 1500 size 275/55/20 i have 22 inch rims so I'm looking to get the 285/45/22 i do city driving no off road and it hasn't snowed in few years here in NC but this tire still says rated for mud/snow
Hard pass on these for a truck. The shallow tread depth and tread design is not really manufactured for a truck. I’d recommend a good highway terrain tire, not a car touring tire.
Why would Michelin make a tire with a “B” traction rating? Seems like a step backward from the prior version.
Because this tire doesn’t focus on traction. Its focus is longevity. This tire is merely average at traction, noise, and comfort. If your focus is quiet and excellent traction the Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your best bet.
Would this work well with the GX550?
Not recommended.
Recommendation for quiet/comfortable highway tire for 2022 4Runner. Michelin Defender, Toyota OC, Cooper, Continental?? What is difference between the Defender mS2 and LTX MS??
The Continental TerrainContact H/T. That’s the answer to your question. Best highway tire on the market currently. Noise, traction, comfort are all phenomenal and exceed Michelin.
I have been lookn at these but Walmart site says they're XL rather than SL ! (Only Walmart claims this )
Also the Nokian One's have almost identical design! Any thoughts?
And of course there is the Continental corss contact lx25 !
Its for a 2021 fwd Chevy Traverse lt
255/65/18
Please advice me to choose im lost !
Thank you in advance, Sir.
SOME sizes will come XL and others SL. Check out TireRack and look at the specs for each size.
Trying to decide between this or the Continental CrossContact LX25. Any thoughts?
Me too. Cross contact LX25 is $50 cheaper per tire right now.
@@robertmullennix9534 ended up going with the crosscontact. Little cheaper and better rated for rainy conditions from what I’ve seen.
The LX25 is a MUCH better tire is nearly every metric. Traction, comfort, and noise are significantly better on the Continental. The Defender 2 is a mediocre to average tire at best.
Good day Can Toyota Camry SE 2019 fit the Michelin defender 2? Thank you
Yes it can, but there are much better tires available. I’d recommend the Michelin Cross Climate 2 over the Defender 2.
Guess I am old school, but the tread depth on these and other tires like this is not what I want for my money. Just seems so shallow. Thank you for the review.
That's a good thing
Good day what tire would you recommend for a 2014 Nissan armada 265/70/18 daily driver CA weather.. thanks
Defender LTX M/S
The Continental TerrainContact H/T
I have a bad experience with this tires on rav 4. Bad driving on hot summer and rainy autumn!
I feel asleep three times during this video
THANKS
Anyone have these on a Ram 1500?
These tires are not designed for your Ram. I’d recommend a highway terrain tire such as the Continental TerrainContact H/T.
If a tire can save your life on a rainy day but gives you less tire tread wear vs one that gives you double tread wear but doesn’t save your life from an accident then which one is a better tire.
I’m sure you’re simply making a point, but traction and safety should always be a priority over longevity.
Can anybody give me a real world test on how well these tires grip on light snow and ice covered roads?
Not well. These tires do NOT focus on traction whether it be on snow, ice or rain. These tires are designed for longevity. If you want winter traction, the Michelin Cross Climate 2 is your tire.
Can you do the new Yokohama Geolandar A/T4 GO18
Have these on my truck now they aren't as great as people are saying they're alright. But overpriced and over hyped but decent
Great, but I can't afford them, so I'll stick with my Cooper's
Cooper makes a phenomenal tire. Some of their tires exceed the Michelin Defender 2.
these are rated 80k miles, wow. The compound must not be that grippy compared to a summer performance tire that lasts 20k miles.
It’s not. It’s a mediocre to average tire with a focus on longevity. It has lower than average ratings for traction and comfort. I’d avoid these tires unless you want a long lasting tire. Even then, there are better long lasting tires available.
Look for the Primacy all season tires as something that will give you significantly more traction in every degree, at some compromise of long life and a bit of comfort/noise, but without the need for a short-life summer tire that gets dismal mpg and generates tons of noise. It's a more well rounded tire for sports sedans. I'd stick with Defenders for more low performance motoring vehicles that don't have much power.
Really? Compared to Defender 1 most people hate 2.
People that understand tires know that the Defender series of tires are just an average tire. Nothing great about them. Michelin does make GREAT tires, the Defender 2 just isn’t one of them.
@@haroldbeauchamp3770 My understanding of tires is below average. My personal experience with Defender 1 LTX on my Suburban 2013 was amazing. Quiet & smooth. I now have 2022 Suburban. Which tires would be better for my SUV. Better than Defender 2? Thanks for your help.
@@radiohead2206 it’s important to know that the Defender LTX series are different than from what is being reviewed in this video. The Defender LTX are great tires for your Suburban. The other choices I’d consider are the Continental TerrainContact H/T, and Bridgestone Dueler LX. All 3 of these tires are pretty much neck and neck for performance as they are all highway tires designed for trucks/large vehicles.
I have the defenders 2 on my wife's suv and Defender ltx m/s on my truck. They are both very quiet and comfortable and they both have great wet/dry traction. For everyday use the Defender2 are great tires and I will be getting them again for my Corolla once it's current tires wear out.
@@mr.boostang2064 you picked two great tires for most people’s needs. The Defender 2 is a very long lasting tire so you’ll be in great shape! Thanks for commenting.
Made in the USA. Buy my product.
Nonsense..!
I bought a set of these and I was really disappointed they did not last 35,000 me and I had them rotated on my 2014 Dodge 2500 truck and I even bought oversized tires and I sucked
BEST tires I've ever owned for most all conditions .. for deep snow I simply use cable chains. WET traction is superb.
... Only problem is that they are very sensitive to wheel misalignment; and, if not 'watched' continuously; thus, are easily subject to 'cupping' on the outside margin. The correction/prevention is to rotate them every ~6k miles. My vehicles all have front and rear differentials; so, to prevent adverse differential wear is (for me) to rotate FIVE tires to ensure that I always have an ~equally worn tread depth (on all five !!!). There is NO difference in the prior direction of rotation; thus, fully compatible with rotation of FIVE tires. They do get somewhat 'noisey' at the end of their in-service life.