Tires: Smoother Ride, shocks and struts, subaru forester

Question
Hi Jack,

I'm seeking a smoother ride on my SUV: Subaru Forester, 2001.  I think the
tires are Yokohama and they came with the car.  Not many miles for a six year
old car -- 21,000. 99% of my driving is on surface streets in Houston.

I realize that SUVs are not designed for smooth riding but I'd still like you to
think about it.  Monroe advertises its shocks and struts as offering a  
smoother ride and I'm sure there are other brands to consider.

Do you think I might win a smoother ride with either new shocks, struts or
tires?

Thanks!

Sam

Answer
Sam,
I would try the tires first. Not many miles but after 5 or 6 years tires start breaking down fast. The rubber continues to cure throughout the life of the tire. It gets harder and the belts start to separate causing a rough ride. Unless you do a lot of off roading I would go with a All Season passenger tire.