Symptoms:

My 2000 Plymouth Voyager is eating my tires because I could only get about 37,000 miles out of it when I first replaced it. At that time, the alignment shop mechanic told me that the treads were worn evenly. He put me a good grade of tires with better tread wear rating. Now only after 19000 miles on it, it’s worn again! During an alignment check, the same mechanic claimed that the tires wore evenly which tells me that there is nothing wrong this vehicle’s front end! If that is the case, what is causing the problem?

Tire Problem Advisor:

Most of the mechanics I know tends to support the findings that this type of van is hard on tires. However I have a few questions for you, which might help alleviate the situation:

How fast do you drive? Do you maintain the regular correct tire pressure? Is your van used for personal or business use? How many drivers?

These questions when answered can help you understand the kind of load being put on your tires and if you can change them, you might get a longer mileage for the tires. Also ask your alignment mechanic to pay particular attention to the toe adjustment, which should be kept closer to zero. More than this sometimes can cause a premature wearing of the tires.

Notes:

The “all wheel drive” minivans have a power transfer unit system that connects the front and back components. This can fail if not identical tires are installed on 4 wheels. This is due to increase build of heat when tires are not the same size.

When in doubt, bring your vehicle to authorized Chrysler dealer shop for a second opinion.

Above repair is only a recommendation and you do this at your own risk. Always have your vehicle align after replacing the tires to prevent repetition of the tire problem.