definitely buying but have questions

[rolly]

I now own a 2001 neon and I'm ready for a new vehicle. My wife and I have decided the Dodge Journey is the right one. We're looking at the Crew or R/T, however, I'm concerned about the 19" tires and availability. We might have to consider the SXT for the 17" tires. We're planning an extended road trip through the U.S. next year and this tire issue has me concerned. I had this problem with the neon and only found out after a blow out on the highway. I had to replace all 4 tires at once because I couldn't get a replacement. Is the handling and ride better with the 19" and better suspension? By the way, I love my neon but it's got 230,000 kilometres on it and I'm a Chrysler retiree and I need a comfortable vehicle for the long trip. Thanks

[bramfrank]

Be aware that with AWD you would similarly need to replace all 4 (even if they were the same make and series) after a blow out because of the way modern AWD systems work - so you might want to at least keep it away from the R/T.

There are alternate 19" tire sizes that will fit, but when replacing ANY tire, even with a front wheel drive vehicle you need to replace a damaged tire with one similar to the one on the other side of the vehicle - in other words, if you can't get a (pick a tire and series) you need to replace both fronts or rears at a minimum - speaks volumes for using full size spares.

[Moparman]

Really the tires are not a big deal, all you do is go from 225 to a 235 when you replace them. Price them on Tire rack, not much difference between the 17 and 19 price wise. IMO they look and handle way better with the 19s. Get the one you want, in the long term, you'll enjoy it more. And if you get the R/T it will have the bigger brakes, which is really nice.

[onecrazyfoo4u]

Like they said, just get the alternate tire size. Only difference really is the 19" tires will run you a bit more money, probably $50 more per tire.

[Psyke]

Depending on the tire, there can be quite a bit of difference; If I take the highest rated tire, some Pirelli's, and price the 17's, it's $166 a tire, where the 19's are $237 a tire. That's a $284 difference for 4 tires. The single Winter tire that's available for the 19' is a bit better, but still, an extra $140 over the 17"

Rolly, it doesn't hurt to ask your dealer if they're able to downgrade you to the 17" If you want, although it may be harder with the RT, The ride with the 19's do feel nice, but, because there is less rubber between the road and rim, you can feel bumps a bit more than you would on 17's, as well you have a better chance of scuffing the rims on curbs, if you're prone to that sorta thing :blush:

cheers!

Steph S.

[rolly]

Thanks for your replies. I guess my biggest fear is not when I have to replace the tires after normal wear but the possibilty of having a tire problem on our trip. Having to replace all four because one tire is bad seems a waste of money. Getting stranded in a small town or rural area with limited tire supply doesn't give me a warm fuzzy feeling. Has anyone had any experience with the extended warranties? I noticed in Bramfrank's reply he mentions a Canadian Group Buy for extended warranty which seems interesting, but has the extended warranty been beneficial and trouble free for those who've used it? Psyke, thanks for the suggestion of downgrading to 17'', never thought of that. Good idea!