[qwikz28]

Guys-

My girlfriend drives an 06 Lexus IS250 awd. Car has been well maintained, but gets a lot of abuse as she commutes from Jersey City to her job in Newark. Lexus recently rebuilt her engine so we decided to spend the money to fix up the rest of the car. First step is the awful highway speed vibration. I took the car to a reputable local shop for a balance and alignment and they said the alignment is off, but the balance is fine. Since the alignment isn't causing the vibration, they checked the tires and found the fronts to be wearing unevenly. Essentially, if you run your hand along the tread, it isn't smooth. The driver's side is worst, passenger side less noticeable, and rears are fine. To best describe it, it seems some of the blocks of tread are either sticking out on the ends or worn out unevenly. Pictures don't pick up the variances, but the tires are Hankook Ventus V2. The tires were purchased at Pepboys and they are confident its the alignment. They are willing to warranty the tires and I will humor them and do the alignment and replace the tires since they are offering, but I want to ensure the problem really is that, or else is something related to the poor quality tires since I will still pay installation and the price is pro-rated.

Now, my question is, how can I diagnose this? She replaced her shocks and struts recently and the suspension definitely feels solid. No clunks, everything is tight. Will an alignment cause this? Perhaps the cut up Newark roads? Perhaps a worn suspension bushing somewhere?

Thanks.