July of 2008 was a big month for my Ford GT. I planned a road trip to Denver for my 20-year high-school reunion, and what better way to arrive than in the only mid-engine V8 sports car ever built in America? I had to get new tires, do a thorough wash and wax, and get very creative in packing, but the car delivered my wife and I to Denver and back in flawless style — all while delivering impressive fuel mileage, too.

2005 Ford GT Long Term Reunion Tire Change

The Ford GT’s tires needed replaced before a long trip

July 2008: Where the Ford GT’s Rubber Meets the Road Trip

July 3, 2008 at 13,441 miles

With a 2000-plus-mile road trip approaching in less than 2 weeks it was time to address the GT’s tire status. It was clear the rears needed replaced. They seem to average about 7,000 miles, and the odo was at 13,400 on the second set. However, the fronts were original, and hadn’t quite reached the wear bars.