Considering the Firestone WeatherGrip for your vehicle but not entirely sure if it’s the right tire for your driving needs? You’re in good company. With so many options available, narrowing down the best tire can be tricky. This review will cut through the details and give you the straight facts about the WeatherGrip, helping you make an informed decision.
The Firestone WeatherGrip is on par with leading competitors in wet and winter conditions but slightly lags behind in dry performance and treadwear longevity. It’s a solid choice for those who need reliable all-season performance with an emphasis on safety in rain and snow.
In this article, we’ll explore the key features, performance metrics, and real-world feedback on the Firestone WeatherGrip. You’ll discover how it compares to top competitors and whether it’s the right tire for your driving style and needs.
Firestone WeatherGrip
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
8.4 of 10
Wet Weather
8.9 of 10
Winter Weather
8.4 of 10
Treadwear
7.7 of 10
Dry Weather
9.0 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.3 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: 640
UTQG Traction Rating: A
UTQG Temperature Rating: A
Mileage Warranty
5 Years / 65,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Hydroplaning: 8.8 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 8.9 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.1 of 10
Responsiveness: 8.8 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 8.9 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 8.3 of 10
Ice Grip: 7.9 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.6 of 10
Road Noise: 8.0 of 10
The Firestone WeatherGrip is a solid choice within the Grand Touring All-Season category, designed to provide year-round traction with a particular emphasis on wet and winter performance. This tire is geared toward drivers who encounter a variety of weather conditions and need a reliable, well-rounded tire that performs consistently, no matter the season.
Firestone has crafted the WeatherGrip to handle everything from dry summer roads to snowy winter conditions. The tire’s tread design incorporates a silica-enhanced compound and full-depth 3D sipes, which contribute to its strong performance in wet and snowy conditions. The tread pattern also features open shoulder slots and a continuous center rib, aimed at enhancing traction and stability.
One of the standout features of the WeatherGrip is its ability to maintain excellent wet performance, paired with commendable snow traction, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize safety and control in adverse weather conditions.
WET PERFORMANCE
The Firestone WeatherGrip performs impressively in wet conditions:
- Hydroplaning Resistance: With a rating of 8.8, the WeatherGrip effectively resists hydroplaning, ensuring stability and control in heavy rain.
- Wet Traction: Rated at 8.9, this tire offers excellent grip on wet surfaces, providing confidence when driving in rain-soaked conditions.
DRY PERFORMANCE
On dry roads, the WeatherGrip offers reliable performance:
- Corner Stability: With a rating of 8.9, the tire provides stable cornering, ensuring safe handling even at higher speeds.
- Dry Traction: Rated at 9.1, the tire delivers strong grip on dry pavement, which is critical for quick stops and sharp maneuvers.
- Steering Response: At 8.8, the steering response is precise, offering drivers a confident connection to the road.
WINTER/SNOW PERFORMANCE
When it comes to winter driving, the WeatherGrip doesn’t disappoint:
- Light Snow Traction: With an impressive rating of 8.9, this tire provides strong performance in light snow, making it a dependable choice for winter driving.
- Deep Snow Traction: Rated at 8.3, the tire handles deeper snow well, maintaining traction and preventing slippage in more challenging conditions.
- Ice Traction: With a rating of 7.9, the tire offers adequate traction on icy surfaces, though it’s not as strong as in other winter conditions.
RIDE COMFORT AND NOISE LEVEL
Balancing performance with comfort:
- Ride Quality: Rated at 8.6, the WeatherGrip offers a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing most road imperfections with ease.
- Noise Control: With a rating of 8.0, the tire manages road noise well, though it may not be as quiet as some of its competitors.
TREAD WEAR AND LONGEVITY
The Firestone WeatherGrip’s tread life is rated at 7.7:
- Durability: While it provides good overall treadwear, its longevity may not be as high as some competitors in the same category. This could be a consideration for those seeking the longest-lasting tire for their money.
PROS
- Excellent wet performance, particularly in hydroplaning resistance.
- Strong traction in light and deep snow.
- Comfortable ride quality with reasonable noise levels.
- Good overall dry performance, with solid cornering stability.
CONS
- Not the best in terms of tread longevity, which may impact overall value.
- Ice traction, while good, could be stronger.
- Noise levels, though reasonable, may not be as low as some higher-end competitors.
VALUE
The Firestone WeatherGrip is priced competitively within its category. While it may not be the least expensive option, it offers strong value for those who prioritize wet and winter performance. However, its treadwear rating suggests that it might not last as long as some other tires, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Overall, it provides a good balance of performance and price, particularly for those driving in variable weather conditions.
The Verdict
The Firestone WeatherGrip is a dependable all-season tire, particularly well-suited for drivers who face a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow. Its strong wet and winter performance, coupled with comfortable ride quality, makes it a solid choice for many drivers. However, if longevity is your top priority, you might want to consider alternatives. Nonetheless, the WeatherGrip is a well-rounded tire that delivers excellent performance where it matters most.
Firestone WeatherGrip vs Competitors
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | Premium |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | Premium |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | Average |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | Budget |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.8 | 8.5 |
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.8 | 8.3 | 8.0 |
| Firestone WeatherGrip | 8.9 | 8.3 | 7.9 |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.5 | 8.1 | 7.7 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 | 6.8 | 7.0 |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 9.0 | 9.1 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.4 |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.8 | 8.9 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 | 8.0 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.2 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.4 | 9.5 | 9.3 |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 9.1 | 9.2 | 9.1 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.7 | 8.9 | 8.8 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.8 | 8.4 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.2 | 8.6 |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.9 | 8.7 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.5 | 8.2 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady | 8.7 |
| Michelin CrossClimate 2 | 9.1 |
| General AltiMAX RT45 | 8.8 |
| Laufenn G FIT AS | 8.0 |
Firestone WeatherGrip Problems
The Firestone WeatherGrip is known for its strong performance in various weather conditions, especially in wet and snowy environments. However, there are a few concerns raised by users and reviewers that potential buyers should be aware of. Understanding these issues can help you make a more informed decision.
Wet Performance Decline Over Time
- Reduced Wet Traction with Wear: While the WeatherGrip performs admirably in wet conditions initially, some users have reported that its wet traction starts to decline as the tire wears down. This issue seems to become more noticeable after about 17,000 to 24,000 miles, which could be concerning for those who frequently drive in rainy conditions.
- Longer Braking Distances: Compared to premium all-season tires, the WeatherGrip’s wet braking performance isn’t as strong. Some users have noted that the stopping distances on wet roads can be longer than expected, which may be a drawback for those who prioritize safety in wet weather.
Road Noise and Comfort
- Moderate Road Noise: While the WeatherGrip is relatively quiet at lower speeds, it tends to produce more noise at highway speeds. This has been a common observation among users who prefer a quieter ride. For a mid-range tire, the noise levels are acceptable, but they might not satisfy drivers used to quieter, premium tires.
- Comfort Balance: The WeatherGrip provides a comfortable ride overall, but some drivers have noted that it isn’t as smooth as other options in its category. The tire’s focus on winter and wet performance may come at the expense of some on-road comfort.
Air Pressure Issues
- Consistent Air Loss: A few users have reported issues with air retention, noting that the tires tend to lose air more frequently than expected. While this isn’t a widespread problem, it’s worth mentioning for those who might not want the hassle of frequently checking and refilling tire pressure.
Dry Performance Limitations
- Not Ideal for Sporty Driving: The WeatherGrip isn’t designed for performance driving, and this shows in its dry handling. The tire lacks the responsiveness and cornering grip that more performance-oriented drivers might expect. For everyday commuting and moderate driving, it performs well, but enthusiasts may want to look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
While the Firestone WeatherGrip offers excellent traction in wet and snowy conditions, potential buyers should be aware of some of its limitations. These include a decline in wet performance as the tire wears, moderate road noise at higher speeds, and some reports of air retention issues. Despite these concerns, the WeatherGrip remains a solid choice for those needing a reliable all-weather tire, particularly in regions with frequent rain or snow.
Firestone WeatherGrip Alternatives
While the Firestone WeatherGrip is a solid all-season tire with commendable performance in wet and snowy conditions, you might be interested in exploring other options that could better align with your specific needs. Here are three top alternatives, each offering unique strengths and advantages. We’ve included a budget-friendly choice for those looking to save some cash without compromising too much on performance.
Michelin CrossClimate 2
Overall Rating: The Michelin CrossClimate 2 stands out as one of the best all-season tires, especially in wet and winter conditions.
- Wet/Dry: This tire excels in both wet and dry conditions, with wet traction rated at 9.4 and dry performance at 9.4. It’s particularly known for its shorter braking distances and outstanding cornering stability.
- Winter/Snow: With a light snow traction rating of 9.2 and deep snow traction at 8.8, the CrossClimate 2 is a top performer in winter, closely matching the WeatherGrip’s capabilities but with slightly better ice traction.
- Comfort: The CrossClimate 2 offers a smooth ride with a comfort rating of 8.9, although it is slightly quieter than the WeatherGrip.
- Treadwear: With a treadwear rating of 9.1, the Michelin CrossClimate 2 offers exceptional longevity, surpassing the WeatherGrip in durability.
Comparison: The Michelin CrossClimate 2 surpasses the WeatherGrip in treadwear and winter traction while providing a similarly comfortable and quiet ride. It’s an excellent choice for drivers who need an all-season tire that performs at a high level year-round.
General AltiMAX RT45
Overall Rating: The General AltiMAX RT45 is a reliable all-season tire with balanced performance across various conditions.
- Wet/Dry: It offers strong wet and dry performance, with wet traction rated at 8.9 and dry performance at 9.2. It’s slightly better in dry traction compared to the WeatherGrip, making it a good choice for drivers prioritizing dry road performance.
- Winter/Snow: The AltiMAX RT45 handles winter conditions well, with light snow traction rated at 8.4 and deep snow traction at 7.8. While it doesn’t quite match the WeatherGrip in snow performance, it’s a solid all-around performer.
- Comfort: With a comfort rating of 8.8, the AltiMAX RT45 is on par with the WeatherGrip in terms of ride quality but offers slightly better noise control.
- Treadwear: This tire has an excellent treadwear rating of 8.8, providing long-lasting durability, which is comparable to the WeatherGrip.
Comparison: The General AltiMAX RT45 is a great alternative for those who need reliable dry performance and comfort at a similar price point to the WeatherGrip, with slightly better noise control.
Laufenn G FIT AS
Overall Rating: The Laufenn G FIT AS is a budget-friendly all-season tire that offers decent performance without breaking the bank.
- Wet/Dry: With wet traction rated at 8.0 and dry performance at 8.8, this tire performs adequately across various conditions, though it doesn’t match the WeatherGrip in wet performance.
- Winter/Snow: The G FIT AS offers good winter traction with a light snow rating of 8.0 and deep snow traction at 6.8. It’s less capable in winter conditions compared to the WeatherGrip but still provides reliable performance for occasional snow encounters.
- Comfort: It provides a comfortable ride with a comfort rating of 8.3, though it may not be as refined as higher-end options.
- Treadwear: The treadwear rating of 8.0 suggests that the G FIT AS is durable, though it may wear out quicker than the WeatherGrip.
Comparison: The Laufenn G FIT AS is a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers who still want decent all-season performance. While it doesn’t quite match the WeatherGrip in wet and winter conditions, it offers good value for the price.
Each of these alternatives offers specific advantages depending on your driving needs and budget.
- The Michelin CrossClimate 2 is ideal for top performance in all weather conditions, especially wet and winter driving.
- The General AltiMAX RT45 offers balanced performance with slightly better noise control and dry traction.
- The Laufenn G FIT AS provides solid performance at a budget-friendly price, making it a great value option.
Depending on your priorities, these options present viable alternatives to the Firestone WeatherGrip.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The Firestone WeatherGrip stands out with its excellent wet and snow performance, making it a dependable option for drivers in areas with variable weather. Its hydroplaning resistance and traction on slippery roads are impressive, providing peace of mind during rainy or snowy conditions. However, the tire does show some limitations in dry performance and tread longevity, which may be a consideration if you prioritize dry road handling or are looking for a tire that lasts as long as possible.
Overall, the Firestone WeatherGrip is on par with the leaders in wet and winter performance but falls slightly short in treadwear when compared to premium options. If you need a reliable all-season tire with a focus on safety in adverse weather, this tire is worth considering.
Good luck and happy motoring.
