Most of the problem with the firestones and explorers was 'ford' running
them underinflated to make up for there crappy suspension. Any tire is more
susceptible to failure when run underinflated..
I bought a 2003 civic, and planned from the start to replace the firestones,
cause I didn't like the way they cornered, lack of traction, etc. Started
out looking at Michelin MXV4 Plus, cause I wanted a good touring tire and
have had Michelins for the past 20 years. Found ratings on tires, and a lot
of customer comments on www.tirerack.com that were very good, and researched
tires on there. Michelin's were not rated very good at all, with very bad
wet traction. Checked on other tires, read the reviews and ended up buying
Bridgstone Turanza's. Figured I couldn't go wrong with a 30 day ride
guarantee. They are by far better than any Michelin I've ever had. Improved
ride, cornering, and traction more than I could have ever hoped for. I've
taken corners harder than I have ever been able to before without a squeal,
or slip.
I've never cared for Firestones, mostly because I bought a set back in 78,
had them for 3 months, until I could afford to replace them, and put
Michelins on my car cause I couldn't stand the Firestones, and at the time
the 731's or 721's, whatever they were called, was there top of the line
tire, and they sucked. The firestones that came OE on my Civic also sucked
bad.