I purchased these tires for winter driving in southern co. Haak 2 eco stud 195/65 /R15. I used these tires for approx 500miles, they were dismounted and correctly stored for summer. Upon re-mounting for winter, one of the tires showed 2 grapefruit size protrusions on the sidewall. Remember these tires had been in storage and not in use. The rubber was so thin I could almost push my finger through the protrusions.'
The tire was sent back to Denver CO, Nokian rep, which told me the damage was due to impact.
I explained that these tires were fine when the came off last spring, hadn't been mounted on the vehicle yet, so I couldn't understand how they could stand by "impact damage". Maybe he thinks that falling from my garage storage shelf constitutes impact damage.
I also spoke with Nokian direct, explained the situation etc...They than called the Denver rep, called me back and refused to warranty the tire due to defect,told me i should have purchased "roadside hazard" (a non issue as the tire is clearly defect) apologized and hung up.
Bottom line...if you have a warranty/defect problem do not count on Nokian cover their product. I will never purchase any of their products or recommend their products to anyone.