I was hoping someone could give me some advice about tires, as I am a complete noob about things like this. The tires on my Fit are near the end of their useful life, and since the car will be used for a 9,000 miles road trip this summer, I thought it would be a good time to replace the tires. I've done some research on the forum and went to a couple mechanics/dealers, and the best option I have as of now is OEM tires @ $135 per tire + labor, taxes, etc. I can also get Hancock tires in the OEM size for roughly $110 at local mechanic. Third option would be to look at a different size, and the size I see most recommended here on the forum is 205/50R16. The thing I'm most worried about with the different size is that there will be some rubbing or some other problems. Especially since the car will be loaded with lots of equipment/luggage, it will probably sit lower. I beg thee for advice, you're my only hope

Just to clear up any confusion, even though the title says road trip tires, I am planning on keeping them until I need to buy new ones

 

I've been running Goodyear Eagle GT tires for a while now (about 16k miles on them), and I am pretty happy with them. Tires don't last very long for me with how I drive ( I was only able to get around 20-22k on the OEM tires), and the tires still have around 7/32 on them.

They have very decent traction in both dry and wet, nothing in the snow/ice (they aren't made for that though), and I've been happy with their noise - I don't really hear them at all.

I drive a 2008 sport MT, and I redline every single day, so I definitely push the tires (I used to drive an STi, so I like to accelerate as fast as I can since the car is so slow).

I definitely wouldn't get OEM tires as a replacement, I thought they were pretty horrible tires, and more expensive as well.

 

Check with Tire Rack for tires, the last time I looked they had the OEM Dunlops for only $89 each.

 

Discount tire direct has the OE dunlops for $95 shipped. They also have the Hankook Ventus in 205 width for $70 shipped after $40 rebate. ($80 each shipped with a $40 Mail in rebate for 4)

I've used both Tirerack & Discounttire and recommend both. TR will be cheaper per tire but you have to calculate shipping. DTD is slightly more expensive but shipping is included so they are usually almost equally priced. a decent tire shop will charge $10-$15/wheel for Mount/balance so you are looking at $85/wheel for tires installed.

~SB