Two years ago replaced the OEM Michelin tires on my wifes 95 855

with Continental Touring Contact CH95s (Tirerack, $57 each). Had

a flat this weekend and when the tire was removed for repair it

was found that there was a half moon shape separation (about 3

inches long) near the bead (on the sidewall). Inspection of the

other three tires revealed that two of them each had two similar separations around the rim/bead (these are small failures but

since they are on the sidewall they are worrisome). Tire guys

would not repair the flat.

Went to another tire shop and they said they had seen this before

on BMWs (Continental is BMW OEM -- in fact, when I carried in the

wheel and showed them tire they first asked if the wheel was from

a BMW). This tire shop manager attributed the problem to low air

pressure (I've never measured aything less then 28 PSI on this

car). Maybe potholes?

The 2nd shop sold Michelin Pilot XGT H4s for $93 each (vs. $86 from

Tirerack -- 195/60 15s) so I replaced all 4 with the Michelins (a

Pilot for under $100 is worth trying, I figure).

I know I have seen a couple of other people post that they have

the same Continental tires (I liked the fairly compliant ride).

So, if you have them, give em a close look. The damage on mine

were all on the inside of the tire and not easily seen.

P.S.

Both tire dealers doubted it could have been caused during the

original tire mounting/installation (my first thought).