OK, I apologize in advance for the Subject line---but it is factual.

I came out from an errand Saturday to hear a hissing sound. Went to the nearest station, pumped up the tire and could see a lag screw sticking its head from my driver side front tire. Put enough air in to get to the tire store.

Their comment, "it's right where the tread and sidewall meet, besides, with 3/32 left we really can't fix it."

So the Element now is wearing new Yokohama Avid TRZ tires in 235/60x16 size. Only drive a few miles, but the handling feels solid and the noise is down, especially on coarse surfaces. These tires are rated for 80,000 miles. Time and rotation will tell.

Thanks to everyone that commented in my other posts. This Board serves a great purpose to share information that would not be available to most of us.

Sorry to hear about your bad luck.

But please keep us posted on how you like the new tires.

Best of luck.

I had a similar thing happen. Had sidewall damage, ruined the tire. Couldn't fathom buying just one Goodyear Wrangler so I used it as an excuse to get a set of Destination LE's. I have over 35k on them now and still going strong with a quieter ride and better handling than those Wranglers.

...So the Element now is wearing new Yokohama Avid TRZ tires in 235/60x16 size. Only drive a few miles, but the handling feels solid and the noise is down, especially on coarse surfaces. ...

I think these are a good choice for the E. I have a set on my other car and find them very quiet (they will get even quieter after about 500 mi if my experience is any indication) and they provide a good balance between performance, ride and longevity.

I just purchased new tires. You had 3/32 left on your tires? I wish mine did, my factory tires were almost bald until I bought new ones.

I was extremely unhappy with the stock tires Absolute rubbish.