Shimy from frwy rain grooves

I recently (1200 miles ago) purchased a 2004 V70XC and have
become frustrated with its handling characteristics whenever I'm
on a stretch of concrete Freeway that has rain grooves carved in
it. The handling sensation reminds me of riding a motorcycle in the same grooves. The tires feel as if they are getting caught and then misdirected in one direction and then another, its a squirrely feeling akin to but much more minor than slipping on ice.

The wagon came with Pirelli Scorpion STR's on it. The dealer's service dept. says the fault lies with the tires as they
are M&S and a reputable tire shop says that this model shouldn't
have any problems unless they are over inflated. Mine are at 33
psi.

Prior to this I've owned M&S rated tires before, none with this
problem. I've had Generals on a Mercedes ML320 and a Nissan
Pathfinder. The Pathfinder also had Bridgestones, Goodrich and
Kelly's in its 14 years of service. My wifes BMW has Conti's and
so did my old VW Scirocco.

Has anyone a solution to this shimy? It is so annoying that its
making me sorry I didn't get the Saab wagon.

Didn't I test drive it? Yes, but wouldn't you know it, the freeways
where I tested it were smooth asphalt!

thanks in advance,
Ed

[Art]

Welcome to the site Ed!

Personally can't speak of any experience driving on rain grooves but I can say that I have felt the same sensation when I occasionally traverse a particular bridge which has metal drainage grating. Very squirrely indeed.

Also, there are portions of our highways which exhibit the same shimmy or tramlining from many other makes/models of vehicles.

Personally, I think it has more to do with tire charateristics as each tire will tend to react differently. I previously drove a '98 Forerunner (Bridgestones) and also felt this shimmy-like sensation when crossing the same bridge.

Best thing to do in this case is to stay focused and have both hands in the proper steering positions.

BTW, you may want to post this thread in the general forum to illicit more responses.