My tires (G37S Coupe) are at a point where I must replace them sometime over the next month or two. I did try searching for this, and know it has been asked, but has anyone had experience with replacing tires on a leased car? I know the language is pretty clear regarding replacement equipment, but I would really like to explore a cheaper alternative.

I am 30 months in a 39 month lease. I never expected my OE tires to last 42K miles. The thought of $1,100 on new OE tires for <9 months of use does not excite me at all; preferably I would like to install Bridgestone RE760, saving $300. I have no intention of buying the leased car (two doors no longer practical, want something new), and its very unlikely I will buy another Infiniti.

Ultimately, if it costs $1,300 then so be it, that's the cost to run the car. However, if exploring cheaper alternatives, would I need approval from my local Infiniti dealer or Infiniti USA? Worst case scenario is buying the $800 RE760's and then having to fork out $1,100 for new RE050's.

I can guarantee one thing - if I do have to buy new RE050's there is no way they'll be lasting 42K miles

 

I dont understand why you would need to have the same exact tires on the car when taking it back, I'd think it just needs to have equivalent speed and load rating and acceptable tread. I'd look at Hankook Ventus V12's or Conti DW, and of course the 760's you mentioned.

If you dont want to risk changing to another brand then buy some used Potenza's RE050's from someone on the marketplace. You can easily find 90% new for like ~$500.