My new 2004 Mondeo Estate (2Ltr Petrol) was supplied fitted with Continental Premium Contact 205/55/16 tyres. These lasted on the front for an acceptable 21000 miles with the rears following on a few K later.

The next set did 19K, the next 17k the next 13K and the last set only 12K! So as the tyre pressures have always been correctly maintained and there is no evidence of steering or suspension mis-alignment. My journey mix has remained the same and at 68 I'm no boy racer.

I can only conclude that Messrs Continental have been using progressively softer compounds. Which, surprise, surprise, means earlier replacement.