Tires: what tire to buy for my Mercedes Benz ML430, mercedes benz ml430, les schwabb

Question
Barry,

I bought a 2000 Mercedes Benz ML430 SUV in May of 2003.  The tires on it are Dunlop Grandtrek 275/55 R17's that now need replacing.  I am struggling with what to replace them with.  I live in Bend, Oregon. A rural setting with a population of about 56,000, (limited tire stores).  Les Schwabb is the largest dealer.  We have winters with snow and ice conditions and occassionaly drive over the Cascade Mountains to Portland, Oregon or drive up to our local ski resort.  However, most of our road miles are during the spring,summer and fall.  I am looking to purchase new tires by the end of February 04. Do I buy more of a highway tire/all season or a winter tire/all season.  My choices are limited to the Toyo Proxes S/T or General Grabber because of tire size, cost and location.  My current thoughts are to by the Toyo Proxes with most of the winter behind us, see how they do in what winter is left and determine if I needto  buy a more aggressive tread next winter.  Or should I just by the General Grabber all season now.  The local Mercedes dealer recommends the General tire.  Also, what do you think about winter tire/road tire rotation vs. keeping an all season tire on year round?

Answer
John,

Since I really don't know exactly the road conditions you encounter and how much compromise you are willing to make, I can't make this judgement for you.

If you are happy with the current set of tires, with the exception that the wear is starting to adversely affect traction, then you ought to stick with what you know.

Hope this helps.