Another tyre question -- something to match an odd tyre

jase1

My new car has a full size spare (with alloy -- now there's a novelty!).

The tyre fitted to it looks pretty much brand new (albeit manufactured in 2008) -- it's a Goodyear Hydragrip, which appears to be a very good tyre in the wet by all accounts. It would be a crying shame to let it rot in the boot for the next five years.

So, I would have liked to be able to get use out of it once the current fronts have worn down (Dunlops, currently around 5mm of tread so will probably be wanting replacing in about 6-8 months at a rough guess). Problem is, it looks like the Hydragrips were discontinued in 2009.

Looking around, it looks like the Optigrip was the Hydragrip's replacement.

Given that this is a good tyre, I'd imagine that fitting a similarly highly rated one to the other side will not be the end of the world in terms of handling, but can anyone suggest anything?

mikey72

I'd go for the optigrip.

[Deleted User]

you need to post up the make and model of car as this can make a big and dangerous difference on some sportier car.

But if its a normal hatchback should be ok.

Also where and how far do you drive motorway etc.

Red_Cat

Is your car front or rear wheel driven?
I would be tempted to put a non matching pair of tyres on the non driven axle, though TBH if you drive sensibly you will be OK.

jase1

The car is a 2l petrol Mondeo -- quite swift, but hardly a sports car.

Approximately 20k/year, mostly on the motorway.

The problem with the non-matching tyres on the back is that by the time the tyre is worn out it could be over-aged.

jase1

Thanks for the comments, all appreciated.

I think I will buy a single Optigrip and stick it on the back with the Hydragrip. Seems the best compromise all-told, and if the Hydragrip gets too old for my liking before it wants replacing, I'll flog it off on eBay at that point.

mikey72

jase1 wrote: »

Thanks for the comments, all appreciated.

I think I will buy a single Optigrip and stick it on the back with the Hydragrip. Seems the best compromise all-told, and if the Hydragrip gets too old for my liking before it wants replacing, I'll flog it off on eBay at that point.

If you keep your eye on it you'll be ok.
I find they age faster off the car than on.
Look out for cracks on the sidewall, and hidden between the treads.
As for ebay, I don't think it's worth it. I've paid just £1 for used tyres before now.