Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire Review (Pros and Cons)
For your sporty ride or luxury sedan, you can get the ultra-high performance Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tires. They perform well on wet, dry, and even lightly snowy roads thanks to their excellent grip and superb handling. With an average price and warranty, these tires can fit the needs of many drivers. If you’d like to understand all the pros and cons of the Firehawk AS V2 tire, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve created this review to help you decide if they’re right for your driving style, and we even include some money-saving tips if you decide to purchase a set of these tires.
Quick savings tip: You can often find special deals online and get tires much cheaper than in a retail store. Discount Tire, for instance, offers a low price guarantee and installs tires for you at a nationwide network of shops. Of course, buying online isn’t for everyone. Ask local tire shops about deals they’re running if this is more your speed. It’s pretty common to see a buy 3, get 1 free deal.
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire Review
Leading the way and being ahead of the competition is what Firestone is all about, and they have been for over 115 years. In 1988, Bridgestone bought the Firestone Rubber & Tire Company, but that didn’t stop the brand from staying on top in the tire world. Today, they continue to provide high-quality tires that consumers can count on, and they’ve only had one recall on their tires in the last five years. This is very low compared to the 9.3 average recalls of all tire makers in the industry (based on data from recallinfo.ustires.org).
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 is a fairly new tire in the Firehawk lineup, but you can still find it at various retailers, such as Discount Tire, Walmart, and Tire Rack. It’s ideal for sedans, sports cars, and luxury passenger vehicles and offers dependability in almost any weather. Because this tire is still new, it should come as no surprise that there haven’t been any recalls. However, with the reputation of Firestone and its high-quality tires, it’s likely to stay off the recall list.
No matter whether the roads are wet, dry, or covered in light snow, the Firestone Firehawk AS V2 all-season tire will get you where you need to be safely. They have responsive handling and sturdy tread that’s made to last. Their high quality and moderate price make them a good option for many drivers.
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tires Pros and Cons
|
+ PROS |
+ CONS |
|
Excellent wet and dry performance |
May bubble |
|
Can handle mild inclement weather |
Can’t grip well in extreme snow or ice |
|
Long-lasting tread life |
|
| Offer a comfortable, quiet ride |
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire Specs
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tires offer the following:
| Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG): | Rating: | NHTSA Says: |
|
500 |
“The higher the treadwear number is, the longer it should take for the tread to wear down”.
Of current tires: 15% are rated below 200 |
|
|
A |
“Traction grades are an indication of a tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement. A higher graded tire should allow a car to stop on wet roads in a shorter distance than a tire with a lower grade. Traction is graded from highest to lowest as “AA”, “A”, “B”, and “C”.
Of current tires: 15% are rated “AA” |
|
|
A |
“Temperature grades are an indication of a tire’s resistance to heat. Sustained high temperature (for example, driving long distances in hot weather), can cause a tire to deteriorate, leading to blowouts and tread separation. From highest to lowest, a tire’s resistance to heat is graded as “A”, “B”, or “C”.
Of current tires: 62% are rated “A” |
| Specifications: |
|
50,000 miles |
A limited treadwear warranty provides coverage against premature wear due to manufacturing defects. | |
|
H, V, and W |
Tires with these speed ratings are suitable for a wide range of vehicles, such as sports car, sedans, coupes, and SUVs | |
|
up to 168 mph |
Based on the W-speed rating. | |
|
91 – 106 |
See Max Load below. | |
|
2,094 lbs |
Based on the maximum tire load index of 106. |
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire Sizes Available
Choosing the right sized tire is important for safety and performance. The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tire is available in wheel diameter sizes from 17″ up to 20″, so there’s sure to be one that will fit your coupe or high-performance vehicle. They fit well on the Ford Mustang, Kia Optima, Dodge Challenger, and Cadillac XTS. Of course, this list isn’t complete of possible fitments, so check with your tire dealer to find out if the Firehawk AS V2 is right for your make and model.
|
Tire Sizes Available: |
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Performance
You can count on the Firestone Firehawk AS V2 to perform well all year thanks to its tread design that helps it grip the road in a variety of weather conditions. This means you won’t have to change your tires out with the seasons. This model scored very well in UTQG ratings for treadwear, traction, and temperature.
Here’s what the UTQG ratings mean for you:
- A treadwear rating of 500, which 20% of tested tires receive, means these tires have an above-average tread life, as the highest-rated treadwear is in the 800 range.
- A traction rating of “A” means these tires can stop well on wet roads, along with 77% of tested tires.
- A top temperature rating of “A” means these tires can dissipate heat well on long drives, and 62% of tested tires receive it.
Firehawk AS V2 tires have an INDYCAR-inspired tread design that helps them take on corners with ease and grip the road whether it’s wet or dry. The large outboard tread blocks and interlocking lugs help repel water to prevent hydroplaning, while the 3D sipes give the tires a full depth that lets them push through the snow. These tires make your vehicle look good without sacrificing performance.
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Warranty
Because Firestone wants you to be 100% satisfied with your tire purchase, they back the Firehawk AS V2 with a 90-day guarantee that lets you return the tires if you’re not satisfied with your purchase. The Firehawk AS V2 also comes with a 50,000-mile limited warranty, that offers a prorated replacement if the tire is unserviceable due to manufacturing defects for up to five years, and as long as there is at least 3/32″ of usable tread remaining. Visit your local tire dealership if you need to file a warranty claim for these tires.
Should You Buy Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tires?
If you’re driving a sports coupe or high-performance vehicle and you need an all-season tire, then the Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tire is a very good option. They come at a budget-friendly price point that can work for most buyers. You’ll enjoy their excellent tread life and superior handling on turns. However, these may not be the best tires for everyone.
Those who live in a climate that experiences harsh winters may want to a set of winter tires that’s better for gripping roads in rough winter weather. These tires can only handle mild winter conditions and don’t provide the best traction on ice or deep snow.
Where To Purchase Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tires
Buying a new set of tires is a big investment you’ll want to take seriously to ensure you get the right tires for your vehicle at the right price.
You might think buying tires online sounds like a hassle, but it can actually save you time and money. Online retailers offer a wide selection of brands, including Firestone Firehawk AS V2, at low prices. They also make it easy to find tires that fit your vehicle. Simply enter your make and model to find the right size tires and start comparing pricing from various online sellers. Don’t forget to calculate installation into your cost, which generally ranges from $15 to $45 per tire depending on the shop you choose.
If you want even less hassle and more savings, Discount Tire is the nation’s leading online tire retailer and it has a huge selection. Its Low Price Guarantee promises you the best deal. Discount Tire will also install your new tires at one of its many store locations. All you have to do is purchase online and set up an appointment for installation — no shipping fees or heavy boxes. Discount Tires’ tire installation typically costs $20 to $27 per tire. This allows you to enjoy the savings of online tire shopping while receiving customer service in-store, all from one company.
If you’re more comfortable buying from your local shop, do your research online so you have a good idea of the tire you want, then ask your local tire or repair shop about current promotions. It’s fairly common to find buy 3, get 1 free deals. Keep in mind, however, that local stores may not have your size or the particular tire make and model you want in stock.
If you simply want the cheapest tires and are less concerned about longevity, check your local area for used tire retailers. Just keep in mind that these tires won’t come with the same warranties as a brand-new set of tires. It’s also advised to replace at least two tires at the same time with a matching set for even wear.
Firestone Firehawk AS V2 Tire Customer Reviews
The Firestone Firehawk AS V2 tires come highly rated among consumers. They’re still pretty new, so they haven’t accumulated too many reviews yet, but the people who own them enjoy their responsive handling, even on wet roads. Many people also mention their ability to provide a smooth, quiet ride. One consumer complained that their tires were prone to losing air and that a bubble formed on one tire after a short period of time. However, most customers seem satisfied with the quality and driving experience of these tires.
It’s important to choose the right tires for your vehicle. Different tires are designed using varying technologies that lead to unique traction and handling abilities. Tires are also designed to fit vehicles’ specific makes, models, and trim levels. Once you find the best tire for your vehicle and driving needs, it’s also crucial to keep up with routine maintenance, including tire rotations.
The FIXD scanner and app help you track your vehicle’s most important maintenance and upkeep needs, including tire life. Purchase the sensor and download the app to keep your vehicle and its tires in their best working condition.
FAQs:
Do I Need New Tires?
Tires generally need to be replaced when they fall under 3 mm of tread. Tread depth can be easily tested with a penny. If you have the FIXD app, after measuring the tread depth, the app will be sure to remind you when an upcoming tire replacement may be necessary.
How Do I Pick The Right Tires for My Vehicle?
There is more to picking tires than just a brand name. You should take into consideration how you use the tires, what conditions you’ll be driving in, what your budget is, and what tires fit your vehicle. If you’d like an in-depth guide, check out our Buyer’s Guide to the Best Car Tires (2023), and if you’d like a bit more information on how to find your tire size, check out our article on How to Find Your Tire Size.
Where Should I Buy Tires to Save Money on My Purchase?
Many consumers purchase tires at a local shop or online. Purchasing online can help you get the most bang for your buck. Although the process can seem confusing, in reality, purchasing tires online is no more difficult than purchasing locally. Purchasing online means you’ll also get the tires you’re wanting rather than just what the local shop has in stock.
When purchasing online you can have the tires shipped to a shop in your area and installed on-site. It’s not much different from purchasing locally in terms of the process, and the price is generally lower because of the level of competition to win your business online and the lower overhead costs of the online retailers.
Our first pick is Discount Tire. It is nationwide, price competitive, has excellent in-store customer service, and skilled installation. In California it is also known as America’s Tire.
How Do I Make Sure I Get The Right Tires for My Vehicle When Purchasing Online?
Just like purchasing at a local shop, you’ll want to make sure the tires you purchase meet your driving needs. Make sure the tire is able to handle your local weather conditions, is built for the type of driving you intend to do (commuting / racing / off-roading), has a good warranty, and fits your vehicle. All-season tires are typically a safe bet for most vehicles whose drivers intend only to commute, and there are several brands with great warranties. The most crucial and final step is to check your tire size. If you cannot verify the tire size you’re purchasing, don’t bother, an incorrect size cannot be adjusted to fit your wheels. This is an unlikely problem as most major online retailers like Discount Tire will list the size of your tire front and center on the product page. Keep in mind that if you no longer have the original wheels your vehicle rolled out of the factory with, you will need to buy a size that fits your non-OEM wheels. If you need help finding your tire size take a look at our instructions for finding your tire size or use Discount Tires’ “Shop by Vehicle” search located on their homepage if you have OEM wheels.
Sources:
Firestone Firehawk AS V2, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations LLC., 2022, https://www.firestonetire.com/tire/firehawk-as-v2/205-50R17/ retrieved on 8 Feb. 2023
Firestone Firehawk AS V2, Discount Tire, 2023, https://www.discounttire.com/buy-tires/firestone-tire-firehawk-as-v2/p/119296 retrieved on 8 Feb. 2023
U.S Tire Manufacturers Association Tire Recalls, U.S Tire Manufacturers Association, 2023, https://recallinfo.ustires.org/TireRecallSearch/ListRecalls/60 retrieved on 8 Feb. 2023
Rating, NHTSA, 2023, https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings retrieved on 8 Feb. 2023
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