Hi, I purchased a pair of Michelin PS2 high performance tires for $600 from tirerack.com and noticed that the lateral tread / groves are blocked with excess rubber throughout both tires. They were installed on 12/06/2008. I received documentation from another tire manufacturer that states the lateral groves play an important function to disperse water to minimize hydroplaning. Currently, tirerack denies my claim for an exchange. I contacted Michelin and they referred me back to tirerack. www.yokohamatire.com/customer_service/construction_tread.aspx the blockage is difficult to remove and would require me to use a sharp utility knife to my tires. I am not sure what Michelin would say if they knew I took a knife to my tires. Tirerack so far has denied my request for an exchange claiming the problem is cosmetic and would go away. I differ because the problem blocks a functional safety and performance area of the tire and prevents its ability to disperse water. Tirerack's written warranty policy states that they would work with me and the manufacturer to resolve a claim. This has not happened according to my knowledge. I have even submitted a video and pictures. I am submitting this complaint because as a consumer who paid a premium for the most expensive and highest performance tires available, I would like to have the piece of mind that they will not fail... and when it comes to safety, a consumer should not have to contemplate if, when or the likelihood an accident would occur - even if one perceives the likelihood to be low. I'd rather not take that chance and it only takes one event to change someone(s) life forever. I therefore feel that tirerack has delayed this issue for over a month and has no regard for my safety or the safety of pedestrians on the road by making a swift exchange. Tirerack has so far only shown signs of only wanting to make money irregardless of safety. Please follow up on my concerns.

- Redwood City, CA, USA