I have a 2013 Kia Soul Plus at 18,000. I bought it brand new in 2013. I mainly commute to work and school via streets.
I've noticed that I have a slow leak in the front passenger tire. I do rotate my tires. I top off the air in all the tires and two or three weeks later I'm down 20psi. I've examined the tire and I haven't noticed any nails or things of the sort. I live in Southern California, in case that matters because of the weather. I have the stock Nexen tires. Any ideas what it could be?
Also, suggestion on tire brands and models? I'm looking for reasonably priced tires, as I am a more often than not broke college student haha.
Get a little kid's plastic kiddy pool just wide and deep enough to submerge the tire lying on its side. Toss the little kid out, fill the kiddy pool with water, inflate the tire to about 40 psi or so, set the tire in it, and get a fat chick to stand on the tire to hold it down. Look for bubbles. Invert tire if necessary and look again. When you see the bubbles, there's your leak.
As for tire brands, I personally like General Tires. I think they're excellent tires and reasonably priced. If you buy them from Discount Tire, you can get them for even less if you wait for a good rebate. (You'll get great service, too. They're a good outfit.)
I've also have had generally happy experiences with Hankook and Firestone, but I think General has them beat in the overall value department. The Altimax Arctic Studded tires my Soul is currently wearing are without a doubt the best snow tires I've ever driven on. In a couple of weeks they'll be replaced by the General Altimax RT43, which is another tire that I love.
You need to understand, however, that tire opinions (including my own) are highly subjective. Some people have strong preferences in terms of ride, handling, noise, etc. I care mainly about handling. I also want my "summer" tires to be at least reasonably competent in snow in case we get an early blizzard before I can legally mount the snow tires (which does happen from time to time where I live). I doubt that's something you care about in Santa Ana.
Probably your best bet is to call Discount Tire Direct (or visit one of their shops) and talk to a salesman. Seriously. The guys at DTC actually know about tires, so if you explain your needs, preferences, and budget, chances are they can find a good match for you. (And no, I don't work for them or own shares. I'm just a repeat and very happy customer.)
Richard
