Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review: Did These Tires Live Up to the Expectations?
Some of the links on this page may link to our affiliates. Learn more about our affiliate policies.
Last Updated: November 20, 2023
Brand: Michelin
Model: Pilot Sport 4S
Warranty: 20,000 - 30,000 miles
Rating: 4.6/5.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Price: $229.00 - $1,183.00 per tire
Load Range: HL - XL
Features: All-Season, Summer, Performance
Weight: 18.92 - 41.07 Lbs
Load Index: 84 - 115
Speed Rating: Y - UP TO 186 MPH
Max PSI: 50 - 51 PSI
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is the better version of the Pilot Super Sports. So here I was, with a brand new set of Super Sports sitting in my living room, thinking that I got the best performance tires available for my BMW M4. Apparently I was very wrong, so I had to check my family cars that had the Pilot Sport 4s on to see how much of a real difference they were from my Super Sport tires.
Considering that Super Sport tires came in 2011, it was fair to expect that Michelin Pilot Sport 4S dominated them in almost any category. Tire industry did not rest, therefore the technology behind the tires improved immensely, and we are here to reap rewards from Michelin's hard work.
Pros and Cons of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Tires
Pros
- Extremely comfortable tire
- Great improvement from an already great model of a tire
- Velvet sidewall finish
- Great track tire (no surprise here)
- Great traction on dry and wet pavement
- Lasts a fair amount of miles for a performance tire
Cons
- Cold weather performance still has issues
- Many folks complain about how short they last, however, often times the longevity of tires solely rely on driving style
- Pretty expensive
Testing Conditions, Equipment, Results
2017 AUDI RS7
- Front: 275/30 R21
- Rear: 275/30 R21
- Terrain: Dry, wet, cold, light snow, gravel (minimal)
2015 BMW F10 M5
- Front: 265/35 R20
- Rear: 285/30 R20
- Terrain: Dry, wet, cold
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Testing Results
Scores taken into consideration:
Wet Traction Rating: 4.4/5.0
Dry Traction Rating: 4.8/5.0
Cold Weather: 3.8/5.0
Comfort: 5.0/5.0
Noise Levels: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating:
4.6/5.0
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Overview
I recently had the opportunity to experience the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on two remarkable vehicles that I borrowed from both of my brothers': the 2017 Audi RS7 and the 2015 BMW M5. My goal was to understand how Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires perform under the demands of high-performance driving. And what could be better than 560hp+ V8 Twin Turbo German monsters?
2017 Audi RS7 Test: Testing the Pilot Sport 4S on the Audi RS7 was an eye-opener. The RS7's powerful engine and quattro all-wheel-drive system were complemented perfectly by the grip and stability of these tires. I was particularly impressed by the responsiveness in tight corners, allowing the RS7 to demonstrate its agility and precision effortlessly. The advanced tread compound of the Pilot Sport 4S significantly reduced road noise, adding comfort to the thrilling high-speed drives. On the dry surface, the Audi felt like a rocket taking off. Something that I immediately realized that BMW would not be able to do since it's not AWD.
2015 BMW M5 Test: The BMW M5, a much different beast than my beloved F82 M4, proved to be an excellent platform to test the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S's capabilities. On the M5, these tires provided outstanding traction in dry and wet conditions. The braking performance impressed me the most, offering a shorter stopping distance and dependable control. Riding on the Pilot Sport 4S, the M5 felt even more stable and smooth, boosting my confidence as a driver, especially under challenging conditions. I am not sure if it was because the M5 is heavier than the M4 or because Pilot Sport 4S is that much more refined than the Super Sport tires that my M4 has on, but the M5 felt more stable on take-offs and didn't feel like it was aggressively trying to fishtail.
From my tests, it's clear that the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S excels in providing superior road grip, handling, and comfort. The tires, featuring Michelin's Dynamic Response Technology, maintained optimal road contact and stability, crucial for high-performance vehicles like the Audi RS7 and BMW M5. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S felt like a better product than the Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires that I have reviewed. They reassured me of its safety and performance capabilities across various road conditions, cementing its place as a premium performance tire.
Testing of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Tires
Purchasing Process - Where to Buy Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Tires
Since these tires are currently being manufactured, you can get them pretty much at any larger tire store. However, due to their popularity, you might need to wait a few days for the order to arrive. If you try to get them through your dealership, it might cost 30%+ more than if you bought it yourself on sites such as Discount Tire or Tire Rack.
I find it cheaper to get them on Tire Rack website, for a very good reason, even if they cost slightly less at Discount Tire. Tire Rack includes Free Road Hazard Protection which at Discount Tire would cost you around $70.
Just keep in mind that if you purchase through Discount Tire, they deliver to their stores, but if you order through Tire Rack they can deliver to your home as well.
Installation of Michelin Pilot Super 4S Tires
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S are high-performance tires, so you're likely not driving an average car. With that in mind, I strongly recommend installing these tires at a reputable shop. I've had great experiences with Discount Tire; they're highly skilled and knowledgeable in tire installation. Of course, other upscale shops can also ensure that you properly install your Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
It's important to avoid cutting corners by opting for a cheap, unqualified service. I've seen rates for tire installation range from $20 to $40 plus tax, which is reasonable considering the importance of a professional job. Especially if you plan to drive at high speeds or take your car to the track, skimping on installation can be dangerously cost-cutting. Moreover, less experienced shops might inadvertently damage your car's electronics.
A case in point is my brother's experience with his Audi RS7. Despite having great reviews (4.8 out of 5 on Google), he used a less reputable shop than a major chain like Discount Tire. They failed to set his car to the correct mode while swapping wheels, raising the car excessively. This resulted in a broken sensor and the need for reprogramming, culminating in a hefty $2,500 bill. This incident underscores the importance of choosing a well-established, experienced installer for your Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
Dry Grip and Traction
While Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires were already great on dry surfaces (unless you had too much torque), the 4S tires are even better. I was blown away that they managed to keep the Stage 2 Pure Turbo F10 M5 on the road without fishtailing much. It's very different from what I have going on with my F82 ZCP M4.
The tire employs a specialized compound inspired by Michelin's racing heritage, particularly from the tracks of Le Mans. This compound ensures the tires adhere firmly to the pavement, providing precise control and instantaneous responsiveness. Whether navigating tight corners or accelerating on straightaways, these tires maintain an impressive level of traction.
The tread pattern on the Pilot Sport 4S is meticulously crafted to enhance its contact with the road. The reduced grooving in the design means more of the tire is in touch with the pavement, translating to better handling and a confident grip. This design is particularly beneficial for performance driving, where every bit of traction counts.
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S incorporates innovative technologies like the Variable Contact Patch. This feature dynamically adjusts the tire's contact patch during different driving maneuvers, ensuring a consistent and optimal grip. Additionally, the inclusion of a Twaron belt – a lightweight yet strong material – aids in keeping the tread flat against the road surface, even at high speeds. This combination of technologies ensures the tire performs reliably and consistently on dry surfaces.
When it comes to high-speed performance, the Pilot Sport 4S truly excels. Drivers can expect stable and controlled handling, even as the speedometer climbs. This stability is crucial for high-performance driving, giving the driver confidence and control.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Traction in Light Snow
Not much to say about Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tire performance in snow. I would just advise you not to do it, even if you have the all-mighty AWD system like the quattro in the Audi. These tires are not all season tires, therefore you should not assume that all-wheel-drive will make up for the lack of grip. Once you start sliding, there isn't much that you can do in some cases.
If you are looking to drive in snow, you might want to tweak your search and go after the one of the best all-season tires for snow category. Yes, even all-season tires are not all great for snow.
Wet grip, Traction, and Braking
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S excels in wet conditions, showcasing its all-weather capabilities as a high-performance tire. Its advanced tread compound provides impressive traction on wet surfaces, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and ensuring driver control. The tire is particularly noted for its superior braking performance on wet roads, thanks to its unique tread design that allows for shorter stopping distances. Just like its predecessor, Pilot Sport 4S did not disappoint in this category either.
Stability is another key strength of the Pilot Sport 4S in wet conditions. The tire maintains reliable contact with the road during cornering and high-speed maneuvers, enhancing safety and handling. This stability is supported by the tire’s innovative design, which includes deep grooves and an optimized layout to effectively channel water away and maintain grip, even during heavy rain. Given that during one of the testing days the M5 already had low thread, there were a few moments where I felt like my heart sank when the car lost grip briefly, however, what can anyone expect from a tire that's almost at the end of its life.
Online reviews signal that other drivers truly appreciate the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S for its reassuring feedback and comfort when navigating wet pavements, offering a secure and predictable driving experience. Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands out for its ability to handle both dry and wet conditions with confidence, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a versatile high-performance tire.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Treadwear and Warranty
The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S has a comprehensive warranty, ensuring peace of mind for drivers investing in these high-performance tires. Here's a breakdown of the key components of the warranty for tires purchased on or after June 1, 2019:
- Treadwear Warranty: The Pilot Sport 4S is covered for six years or 30,000 miles of treadwear, which is a testament to its durability and long-lasting performance. It's important to note that if the rear tires are a different size than the front, the mileage warranty for the rear tires is halved.
- Uniformity Warranty: Michelin offers a uniformity warranty for the first year or 2/32" of wear. This coverage addresses issues with the tire's uniformity as it wears during normal use.
- Workmanship & Materials Warranty: The Pilot Sport 4S is covered under a workmanship and materials warranty for six years. During the first year or until the first 2/32" or 25% of wear, replacement is free. After that, the warranty is prorated until only 2/32" of the tread depth remains. This warranty protects against defects in workmanship or materials used in the tire.
- Manufacturer's Road Hazard Warranty: It is important to note that the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S does not come with a manufacturer's road hazard warranty. Drivers may consider additional coverage or be mindful of driving conditions.
- This warranty package from Michelin ensures that drivers can enjoy the high performance of the Pilot Sport 4S with an assurance of quality and reliability backed by Michelin's commitment to their product's longevity and customer satisfaction.
Should I Purchase the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S?
The competition in Sport Performance tire niche is fierce, and there are quite a few great products to choose from. Since I have only great experience with Michelin tries, I tend to stick with the brand, therefore I would buy Michelin Pilot Sport 4S. Heck, I wish I could rewind the time and place the order for 4S instead of Super Sport. However, I'm just one man with with an opinion. And you know what they pay about opinions.
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Tire Size Options
For 17" Diameter Wheels:
- 215/45ZR17 - 91Y
- 225/45ZR17 - 94Y
- 235/45ZR17 - 97Y
- 245/40ZR17 - 95Y
- 245/45ZR17 - 99Y
- 265/40ZR17 - 100Y
For 18" Diameter Wheels:
- 215/35ZR18 - 84Y
- 225/40ZR18 - 92Y
- 225/40ZR18 - 92Y
- 225/45ZR18 - 95Y
- 225/50ZR18 - 99Y
- 235/40ZR18 - 95Y
- 235/40ZR18 - 95Y
- 235/45ZR18 - 98Y
- 235/50ZR18 - 101Y
- 245/35ZR18 - 92Y
- 245/40ZR18 - 97Y
- 245/45ZR18 - 100Y
- 255/35ZR18 - 94Y
- 255/35ZR18 - 94Y
- 255/40ZR18 - 99Y
- 255/45ZR18 - 103Y
- 265/35ZR18 - 97Y
- 265/40ZR18 - 101Y
- 275/35ZR18 - 99Y
- 275/35ZR18 - 99Y
- 285/35ZR18 - 101Y
- 285/40ZR18 - 105Y
- 295/30ZR18 - 98Y
- 295/45ZR18 - 112Y
For 19" Diameter Wheels:
- 225/35ZR19 - 88Y
- 225/40ZR19 - 93Y
- 225/40R19 - 93Y
- 225/45ZR19 - 96Y
- 235/35ZR19 - 91Y
- 235/35ZR19 - 91Y
- 235/35ZR19 - 91Y
- 235/40ZR19 - 96Y
- 235/40ZR19 - 96Y
- 245/30ZR19 - 89Y
- 245/35ZR19 - 93Y
- 245/35ZR19 - 93Y
- 245/35ZR19 - 93Y
- 245/35ZR19 - 93Y
- 245/40ZR19 - 98Y
- 245/40ZR19 - 98Y
- 245/45R19 - 102Y
- 255/30ZR19 - 91Y
- 255/35ZR19 - 92Y
- 255/35ZR19 - 96Y
- 255/35ZR19 - 96Y
- 255/35ZR19 - 96Y
- 255/35R19 - 96Y
- 255/40ZR19 - 100Y
- 265/30ZR19 - 93Y
- 265/30ZR19 - 93Y
- 265/35ZR19 - 98Y
- 265/35ZR19 - 98Y
- 265/40ZR19 - 102Y
- 275/30ZR19 - 96Y
- 275/35ZR19 - 100Y
- 275/35ZR19 - 100Y
- 275/35ZR19 - 96Y
- 275/35ZR19 - 100Y
- 275/35ZR19 - 100Y
- 275/40ZR19 - 105Y
- 285/30ZR19 - 98Y
- 285/35ZR19 - 103Y
- 295/25ZR19 - 94Y
- 295/30ZR19 - 100Y
- 295/35ZR19 - 104Y
- 305/30ZR19 - 102Y
- 305/30ZR19 - 102Y
- 315/30ZR19 - 104Y
- 325/30ZR19 - 105Y
- 355/30ZR19 - 110Y
For 20" Diameter Wheels:
- 215/45ZR20 - 95Y
- 225/35ZR20 - 90Y
- 235/30ZR20 - 88Y
- 235/35ZR20 - 92Y
- 235/35ZR20 - 92Y
- 235/35ZR20 - 92Y
- 235/40ZR20 - 96Y
- 235/45ZR20 - 100Y
- 235/45ZR20 - 100Y
- 245/30ZR20 - 90Y
- 245/30ZR20 - 90Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/35ZR20 - 95Y
- 245/40ZR20 - 99Y
- 245/40ZR20 - 99Y
- 245/45ZR20 - 103Y
- 255/30ZR20 - 92Y
- 255/35ZR20 - 97Y
- 255/40ZR20 - 101Y
- 255/40ZR20 - 101Y
- 255/45ZR20 - 105Y
- 265/30ZR20 - 94Y
- 265/30ZR20 - 94Y
- 265/35ZR20 - 99Y
- 265/35ZR20 - 99Y
- 265/35ZR20 - 99Y
- 265/40ZR20 - 104Y
- 265/40ZR20 - 104Y
- 265/40ZR20 - 104Y
- 275/30ZR20 - 97Y
- 275/30ZR20 - 97Y
- 275/35ZR20 - 102Y
- 275/35ZR20 - 102Y
- 275/35ZR20 - 102Y
- 275/35ZR20 - 102Y
- 275/40ZR20 - 106Y
- 275/40ZR20 - 106Y
- 285/30ZR20 - 99Y
- 285/30ZR20 - 99Y
- 285/35ZR20 - 104Y
- 285/35ZR20 - 104Y
- 285/35ZR20 - 104Y
- 295/25ZR20 - 95Y
- 295/30ZR20 - 101Y
- 295/30ZR20 - 101Y
- 295/30ZR20 - 101Y
- 295/35ZR20 - 105Y
- 295/35ZR20 - 105Y
- 295/35ZR20 - 105Y
- 295/35ZR20 - 105Y
- 295/35ZR20 - 105Y
- 305/25ZR20 - 97Y
- 305/30ZR20 - 103Y
- 305/30ZR20 - 103Y
- 305/30ZR20 - 103Y
- 305/30ZR20 - 103Y
- 305/35ZR20 - 104Y
- 305/35ZR20 - 107Y
- 315/30ZR20 - 104Y
- 315/30ZR20 - 104Y
- 315/35ZR20 - 110Y
- 315/35ZR20 - 110Y
- 325/25ZR20 - 101Y
- 345/30ZR20 - 106Y
For 21" Diameter Wheels:
- 245/30ZR21 - 91Y
- 245/35ZR21 - 96Y
- 245/35ZR21 - 96Y
- 245/40ZR21 - 100Y
- 255/30ZR21 - 93Y
- 255/35ZR21 - 98Y
- HL255/40ZR21 - 105Y
- 255/40ZR21 - 102Y
- 255/40ZR21 - 102Y
- 265/30ZR21 - 96Y
- 265/35ZR21 - 101Y
- 265/35ZR21 - 101Y
- 265/35ZR21 - 101Y
- 265/40ZR21 - 105Y
- 265/40ZR21 - 105Y
- 275/25ZR21 - 92Y
- 275/30ZR21 - 98Y
- 275/35ZR21 - 103Y
- 275/35ZR21 - 103Y
- 275/35ZR21 - 103Y
- 275/35ZR21 - 103Y
- 285/30ZR21 - 100Y
- HL285/35ZR21 - 108Y
- 295/25ZR21 - 96Y
- 295/30ZR21 - 102Y
- 295/30ZR21 - 102Y
- 295/30ZR21 - 102Y
- 295/35ZR21 - 107Y
- 295/35ZR21 - 107Y
- 305/25ZR21 - 98Y
- 305/30ZR21 - 104Y
- 305/30ZR21 - 104Y
- 315/30ZR21 - 105Y
- 315/30ZR21 - 105Y
- 325/25ZR21 - 102Y
- 325/30ZR21 - 108Y
- 325/30ZR21 - 108Y
- 355/25ZR21 - 107Y
For 21" Diameter Wheels:
- 255/30ZR22 - 95Y
- 255/35ZR22 - 99Y
- 265/35ZR22 - 102Y
- 265/40ZR22 - 106Y
- 275/35ZR22 - 104Y
- 275/40ZR22 - 108Y
- 285/25ZR22 - 95Y
- 285/30ZR22 - 101Y
- 285/35ZR22 - 106Y
- 285/35ZR22 - 106Y
- 285/35ZR22 - 106Y
- 285/40ZR22 - 110Y
- 295/25ZR22 - 97Y
- 295/35ZR22 - 108Y
- 315/30ZR22 - 107Y
- 315/30ZR22 - 107Y
- 315/30ZR22 - 107Y
- 325/35ZR22 - 114Y
- 335/25ZR22 - 105Y
For 22" Diameter Wheels:
- 285/40ZR23 - 111Y
- 315/30ZR23 - 108Y
- 325/35ZR23 - 115Y
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Tire Review - Bottom Line
Overall, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is an outstanding choice in high-performance tires, delivering excellent grip and stability on dry and wet roads. Its blend of advanced technology and robust construction translates into responsive handling and high-speed stability, catering well to driving enthusiasts and everyday users.
While its performance is impressive, the comprehensive warranty adds a valuable layer of confidence despite the absence of a road hazard warranty. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4S stands out for its quality and versatility. It is a top choice for those seeking to elevate their driving experience with a reliable and dynamic set of tires.
The Car Data Tire Testing Methodology
We take pride in providing thorough and unbiased reviews of the latest tire models. To ensure that our ratings are accurate and consistent, we have developed a rating methodology that considers various factors and incorporates statistical analysis.
- Performance: We test tires for their performance in various driving conditions, including wet and dry roads, snow and ice, and off-road terrain. We also consider factors such as handling, braking, noise, and ride comfort. These tests are conducted using standardized procedures, and the results are analyzed using statistical methods to determine the mean and standard deviation.
- Durability: We assess the durability of tires based on factors such as tread life, resistance to punctures and cuts, and sidewall strength. These tests are conducted using standardized procedures, or data gathered from third-party websites where real users share their experiences with the products that we are reviewing. We then analyze the results using statistical methods to determine the mean and standard deviation.
- Value: We consider the price of the tire and compare it to its performance and durability to determine its overall value. We pay close attention to how long the tires last, reported life-span of the tires, as well as the ratio of those metrics when compared to the price.
- Customer reviews: We consider the experiences and opinions of other drivers who have used the tire. We do our best to disregard what seems to be fake reviews (good or bad), and make judgement calls based on our ability to filter bogus reviews well. We are human, therefore mistakes can be made. The best reviews that we provide are always the ones where we get to extensively test the products ourselves and share real-life experiences with our readers.
- Expert opinions: We consult industry experts and gather their insights and opinions on the tire. An expert can even consists of a person that has extensive knowledge through the use of the tires and has practical experience with them.
Our ratings are based on a scale of 1 to 5, with one being the lowest and five being the highest. We strive to provide detailed and comprehensive reviews that give drivers the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. Overall, this methodology, which incorporates statistical analysis, allows us to provide accurate and reliable ratings for the tires we review on our site.
Steven Dillon
Author
Steven is the founder and product tested for The Car Data, that has extensive knowledge in automotive industry. While most of his free time he participates in typical "car guy" activities, his passion for cars, data analytics, and tech, always has his looking for the next cool tool, software, trend, etc. to share with his audience on The Car Data or on his Instagram.
© 2023 The Car Data. All rights reserved.