With the increasing need for mobility, cars have become an indispensable asset for many households. According to recent Forbes data, car ownership has steadily risen in the past few years, with a 3.6% increase from 2017 to 2021 alone. The same report also states that 91.7% of households in the U.S. own at least one vehicle, and this trend is set to continue in the future.
While buying a car can be a significant investment, owning a car requires a great deal of responsibility to ensure its longevity of service. A car’s average lifespan is 12.1 years, but owners who provide regular upkeep can expect their vehicles to extend beyond this. Regular maintenance checks should be a part of every car owner’s routine, and following a car maintenance checklist is an effective way to keep your vehicle in top shape.
One of the most crucial areas that require routine checking is a car’s tires. Quality tires ensure safety on the road and can help prevent accidents. Choosing the right tires for your vehicle is a critical decision affecting your car’s overall performance, fuel economy, and safety. Therefore, choosing the best car tire brands that offer high-quality tires that meet your driving needs is essential.
List Of Top Car Tire Brands You Must Know
When buying tires for your car, you want to get your hands on the best tire brands. However, with so many options available, knowing which brands are worth considering can be challenging. To ensure you get the best value for your money, here is a comprehensive list of 23 top car tire brands you must know.
1) Pirelli
Pirelli is a well-known Italian tire brand that has been producing high-quality tires for over 150 years. It has established a reputation for being one of the top tire brands in the market, particularly in the high-performance segment. Pirelli has a unique position in the market, as it has exclusive partnerships with some of the world’s most prestigious automakers, including Lamborghini, Porsche, and Ferrari.
Pirelli tires are known for their superior performance, handling, and stability on the road. They are also popular for their stylish and sleek designs, making them a top choice for car enthusiasts who prioritize both style and performance.
Pros: High-performance, Stylish designs
Cons: Expensive, Not ideal for budget-conscious buyers
2) Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company
Since 1898, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company has been a tire brand that produces high-quality tires in America. The manufacturer is known for its extensive range of tires catering to all vehicle types and driving conditions.
The brand has a long-standing history of accomplishments, including the development of the first tubeless tire and the first tire to land on the moon. Goodyear has also made significant contributions to motorsports, providing tires for NASCAR, Formula One, and other racing events.
Regarding market performance, Goodyear tires are well-established and trusted by millions of drivers worldwide. Its tires are known for their durability, reliability, and safety on the road.
Pros: Innovative technology, Extensive range
Cons: Some models can be expensive
3) Hankook Tire
With decades of experience in producing high-quality tires, South Korean ture brand Hankook Tire has become a reputable tire manufacturer with a global presence. Hankook is known for its commitment to innovation and quality, and it invests heavily in research and development to ensure that its tires meet the needs of modern drivers.
Hankook has made significant contributions to the tire industry, including being the first Korean manufacturer to supply original equipment tires to global automakers such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. It has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts, receiving awards for its eco-friendly tire designs.
Pros: Innovative designs, Eco-friendly options
Cons: Limited availability in some areas
4) Michelin Tires
Michelin is a French tire brand that has been in operation since 1889. It is one of the most well-known tire brands in the world, with a reputation for producing high-performance tires that prioritize safety and performance. Michelin has been at the forefront of tire innovation, introducing numerous groundbreaking technologies over the years.
The brand is known for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on creating eco-friendly tire designs that reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Michelin has also been recognized for its excellence in motorsports, providing tires for various racing events such as Formula One, MotoGP, and the World Rally Championship.
Michelin is a market leader in the tire industry, with a wide range of tire models catering to all vehicle types and driving conditions, particularly all-season tires. Its tires are known for their longevity, reliability, and excellent traction on the road.
Pros: High-quality, Eco-friendly designs
Cons: Expensive compared to other brands
5) Bridgestone
Bridgestone is a Japanese tire manufacturer that has been operating since 1931. It is one of the largest tire brands in the world, with a presence in over 150 countries.
One of Bridgestone’s unique achievements is its Run-Flat technology, which allows drivers to continue driving on a flat tire for a certain distance without losing control of their vehicle. Run-flat tires are designed with reinforced sidewalls and a thicker tread that can withstand the weight of a car without air pressure. This innovation has revolutionized the tire industry and has drastically improved vehicle safety on the road.
Bridgestone Tires are the leader in the tire industry, offering an extensive range of tires, from summer tires to winter tires.
Pros: Run-Flat technology, Eco-friendly designs
Cons: Certain models could be costly
6) Continental AG
This German tire brand is known for its focus on safety, committed to creating tires that prioritize driver and passenger protection. Continental AG offers a wide range of tire models catering to all vehicle types and driving conditions.
One of Continental AG’s unique selling points is its SUV tires. The brand offers a range of SUV tire models designed to provide excellent traction and stability on and off-road. The SUV tire designs prioritize durability and ruggedness, making them an ideal choice for adventurous drivers.
Continental AG’s tires are known for their excellent handling, stability, and reliability on the road. Because of their superior quality, the tires are widely regarded by car enthusiasts and mechanics alike.
Pros: Specialized SUV tire designs, Excellent handling
Cons: Limited options compared to other brands
7) Yokohama Rubber Company
In 2022, Yokohama Rubber Company reported sales of over $6 billion, making it one of the leading tire brands worldwide. The Japanese tire brand was founded in 1917 and is known for its focus on quality and innovation. It offers many tire models catering to different vehicle types and driving conditions.
Yokohama is renowned for its participation in motorsports, specifically providing tires for numerous racing events. The brand has also shown its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly design practices. Many of its tires are made with recycled rubber, reducing the production of CO2 emissions.
Yokohama Tires offer excellent traction, handling, and stability on the road. They also provide superior durability, making them a perfect option for drivers who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Pros: High performance, Eco-friendly designs
Cons: Limited availability in some areas
8) Dunlop Tyres
Dunlop Tyres is a British tire manufacturer known for innovative designs and technologies. It offers a wide range of tire models catering to all vehicle types and driving conditions. Dunlop Tyres has a strong presence in the global market, focusing on producing high-performance tires that prioritize safety and durability.
One of the brand’s standout tire models is the SP Sport Maxx 050, which features Dunlop’s unique asymmetric tread design and offers excellent handling, stability, and grip on both wet and dry roads. Dunlop Tyres is also known for its motorsports involvement, with a history of supplying tires for various racing events.
Pros: Innovative tire designs, High-performance tires
Cons: Not as widely available
9) Continental
Continental AG is a German multinational tire manufacturer that is known for producing high-quality tires for all types of vehicles. The brand has been in operation since the late 19th century and has established a reputation for its focus on innovation, quality, and performance.
Additionally, Continental AG has received numerous awards for its tire designs and technologies, with its products consistently ranking highly in independent tire tests and reviews.
Pros: Strong reputation for quality and innovation
Cons: Expensive for budget-conscious consumers
10) Firestone Tire and Rubber Company
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is an American tire manufacturer that has been in operation since the early 20th century. The brand is one of the oldest tire manufacturers in the world and has established a reputation for producing reliable and durable tires for all types of vehicles.
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company offers a wide range of tire models that cater to different types of vehicles and driving conditions, from passenger cars to commercial trucks and buses. Many of its tire models are priced competitively compared to other top tire brands, making them ideal for budget-conscious consumers.
Pros: Competitively priced, Reliable and durable tires
Cons: Limited range of models
11) BFGoodrich
BFGoodrich is a well-known brand that produces quality tires, including specialized terrain tires. The company has a reputation for producing reliable and durable tires for a variety of vehicles. BFGoodrich is known for its expertise in creating off-road and all-terrain tires for trucks and SUVs, making it a popular choice for adventurous drivers. The brand is also committed to sustainability, focusing on reducing waste and emissions in its production processes.
In terms of performance, BFGoodrich tires are often praised for their excellent traction, durability, and long-lasting tread life. One potential downside of BFGoodrich tires is their relatively higher cost compared to other brands, but many drivers find that the extra cost is worth it for the increased performance and longevity.
Pros: Specialized terrain tires, Durable, Reliable
Cons: Higher cost
12) Apollo Tyres
Apollo Tyres is a leading tire brand with a strong presence in the global market. Based in India, the company has produced high-quality tires for over four decades and has earned a reputation for its commitment to innovation and quality.
Apollo Tyres provides a diverse selection of tires suitable for vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and motorcycles. The brand is well-known for prioritizing research and development. As a result, they have developed innovative technologies such as Fuel Saving Technology which is environmentally friendly.
One of the brand’s most popular products is the Apollo Alnac 4G, designed for passenger cars and has received positive reviews for its superior performance and handling. Despite its strong market position, Apollo Tyres faces stiff competition from other major tire manufacturers. Still, its commitment to innovation and quality has helped it maintain a strong presence in the market.
Pros: Innovative technologies, Wide range of products
Cons: Stiff competition
13) Cooper Tire & Rubber Company
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company is a famous American tire brand that has operated for over a century. Known for its high-quality tires, Cooper Tire has established itself as a reliable choice for consumers looking for performance and durability.
The brand offers various vehicle tire options, including passenger cars, light trucks, SUVs, and commercial trucks. Cooper Tires are known for their exceptional handling, stability, and durability, making them a popular driver choice.
Cooper Tire has also received several recognitions for its tire performance and quality. Leading automotive publications and organizations, including Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, have recognized the brand’s products.
Pros: High-quality performance tires
Cons: Limited availability in some regions
14) Toyo Tires
Toyo Tires is a well-known brand in the automotive industry, known for its high-performance tires. The brand has received positive reviews from various reports and studies. In a 2020 study conducted by J.D. Power, Toyo Tires ranked second in overall customer satisfaction for original equipment tires. The brand has also been popular for its fuel-efficient tires, with the Toyo NanoEnergy line receiving recognition from the Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association for its low rolling resistance and reduced CO2 emissions.
Toyo Tires’ products are popular among drivers for their reliability and performance. However, some customers have reported issues with treadwear on certain tire models. Despite this, the brand continues to maintain a strong reputation in the market and is considered a reliable option for those seeking high-quality tires.
Pros: Reliable, High-performance, Fuel-efficient
Cons: Treadwear issues on some models
15) Falken Tires
Falken Tires, a brand owned by Sumitomo Rubber Industries, is a reputable tire manufacturer known for producing high-quality performance tires. With its cutting-edge research and development, the company created innovative tire designs that meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. Falken Tires has been consistently known for its efforts, earning numerous recognitions for its products and customer service.
One example of Falken Tires’ success is its ranking as the top tire brand for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2023 Tire Satisfaction Study. The brand’s tires were noted for their high performance, durability, and value for money. Additionally, Falken Tires has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, earning a Green Supplier Award from Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. for its environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.
Pros: Performance, Innovation, Customer satisfaction, Sustainability
Cons: Limited options for certain vehicles.
16) Cooper
Cooper Tire & Rubber Company is a leading manufacturer of tires and is known for its wide range of products for various applications. Established in 1914, the company has a long history of delivering quality products to its customers. Cooper Tires offers tires for cars, trucks, SUVs, and even motorcycles. Their products are known for their durability, excellent performance, and safety features. The company has also been recognized for its environmental initiatives and responsible manufacturing practices. Cooper Tire & Rubber Company has a strong distribution network across the globe, making its products easily accessible to customers.
Pros: Wide range of products, Environmental initiatives
Cons: Limited availability in some regions
17) Nokian Tyres
Nokian Tyres is a Finnish tire manufacturer that has been producing high-quality tires for over a century. The company is known for its advanced technologies and innovative designs that provide superior performance and safety in challenging weather conditions. Nokian Tyres’ products are designed for extreme winter conditions, making them popular in Northern Europe, Russia, and Canada. The company has been awarded for its sustainable practices and its focus on environmental responsibility. Nokian Tyres has a global distribution network, and its products are available in over 60 countries.
Pros: Innovative designs, Sustainable practices
Cons: Limited range of products
18) Nexen Tire
Nexen Tire is a South Korean tire manufacturer that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The company offers a range of products for passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Nexen Tire’s products are known for their durability, excellent performance, and affordability. The company has won several awards for its innovative designs, including the IDEA Design and Red Dot Design awards. Nexen Tire operates in more than 140 countries worldwide through its distribution centers and has a significant global market presence.
Pros: Affordable prices, Award-winning designs
Cons: Limited options for heavy vehicles
19) Maxxis
Maxxis is a Taiwanese tire manufacturer producing high-quality tires for over 50 years. With a strong focus on innovation and technology, Maxxis has established itself as a leading tire brand in the global market. The brand offers various vehicle tire products, including cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and trailers.
Maxxis tires are known for their exceptional performance, durability, and safety, making them a popular choice among drivers worldwide. In addition, Maxxis is committed to environmental sustainability and uses eco-friendly materials in its manufacturing process. The brand has also established itself in competitive motorsports, including partnerships with top racing teams and events. Maxxis continues to push the boundaries in tire technology, resulting in improved customer driving experiences.
Pros: Durable, High-performance, Innovative
Cons: Limited brand recognition in some regions.
20) MRF
MRF, also known as Madras Rubber Factory, is a leading tire manufacturer in India with a history dating back to 1946. The brand offers various vehicle tire products, including cars, motorcycles, trucks, buses, and agricultural machinery.
MRF has established itself as a household name in India, with a strong reputation for quality, performance, and reliability. The brand’s focus on innovation has resulted in various patented technologies, including the MRF ZSLK – a tire that uses zero-pressure technology. The brand’s commitment to sustainable manufacturing and social responsibility has earned it several awards and recognitions over the years.
Pros: Quality, Performance, and Reliability
Cons: Availability in international markets
21) Kenda Rubber Industrial Company
Kenda Rubber Industrial Company has been a Taiwanese tire manufacturer for over 50 years. The brand offers various vehicle tire products, including cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and trailers. Kenda tires are known for their superior performance, durability, and safety, making them a popular choice among drivers worldwide.
Kenda’s focus on innovation has resulted in various patented technologies, including the Kenda Karrier ST, a radial tire designed for trailers. The brand has successfully entered and become prominent in the highly competitive world of motorsports through partnerships with leading racing teams and events. Kenda is committed to sustainability, and its manufacturing process involves using eco-friendly materials and practices.
Pros: Superior performance, Durability, and Safety
Cons: Limited brand recognition in some regions
22) Dunlop
Dunlop is a globally renowned tire brand that offers a range of high-performance tires for various vehicles. With over 130 years of experience in the tire industry, Dunlop has established itself as a trusted name in the market, known for its quality, durability, and innovation. The brand has a wide range of tires that cater to various driving needs, including passenger cars, SUVs, light trucks, and motorcycles.
Dunlop has a reputation for its innovative tire technologies, which have been developed through years of research and development. The brand’s tires are designed to provide optimal performance in all weather conditions, offering superior grip, handling, and stability on the road. Moreover, Dunlop has a strong presence in motorsports and has won several championships across different racing categories.
Pros: Innovative tire technologies, Presence in motorsports
Cons: Unavailability in some international markets
23) Kumho Tire
Kumho Tire is a South Korean tire manufacturer that has been producing tires since 1960. The company is known for its quality products and innovative technologies. The company has manufacturing facilities in several countries, including South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the United States.
One of Kumho Tire’s unique selling points is its focus on environmental sustainability. The company has received numerous awards for its eco-friendly initiatives, such as introducing low-rolling resistance tires and its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, Kumho Tire invests heavily in research and development to ensure that its products meet customers’ changing needs.
Pros: Eco-friendly, Innovative technologies, Strong presence
Cons: Lower brand recognition compared to competitors
How To Choose the Best Tire Brand?
Choosing the right tire brand is crucial to the performance and safety of your vehicle. Tires are one of the most essential components of your car, and their quality affects everything from handling and braking to fuel efficiency and comfort. Therefore, it’s necessary to take the time to research and consider the factors that go into choosing the best tire brand for your car.
Tire Size
Tire size plays a crucial role in the performance and safety of your vehicle. Choosing the correct tire size ensures proper handling, traction, and stability. The wrong tire size can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. To find the correct tire size for your vehicle, check your car owner’s manual or look for the tire size information on the tire sidewall. Different tire models may require different tire sizes, so checking the specifications before purchasing is essential.
Usage Of Materials
The type and quality of materials used can impact traction, handling, and treadwear. Tire manufacturers use rubber, steel, polyester, nylon, and silica to achieve their tire models’ desired performance and durability. For instance, high-performance tires typically incorporate a softer rubber compound for better grip and handling. In contrast, all-terrain tires contain more durable materials to handle rough roads and harsh weather conditions.
Original vs. Replacement Tires
Choosing between original equipment tires (OEM) and replacement tires is an important decision that affects your vehicle’s performance, safety, and overall cost. The vehicle manufacturer designs original equipment tires to provide the best possible performance for the specific make and model of the car. These tires are often more expensive but can be worth the investment in terms of safety, performance, and warranty. On the other hand, replacement tires are typically cheaper and more widely available but may not offer the same level of performance and safety as OEM tires.
Traction
Traction is essential when choosing tires, as it refers to the tire’s ability to grip the road surface. Good traction is necessary for safe driving in wet, icy, or snowy conditions and affects braking distance. Tire manufacturers use various tread patterns and materials to achieve the desired level of traction for their tire models. Many tires come with ratings from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the European Tire and Rim Technical Organization that indicate their traction performance.
Speed Rating
The speed rating is another essential factor, indicating the maximum speed a tire can safely handle. Choosing tires with a speed rating that matches your vehicle’s capabilities is important. Higher speed ratings usually require tires with stiffer sidewalls, which can affect the tire’s overall performance.
Tire Aspect Ratio
The tire aspect ratio refers to the sidewall’s height about the tire’s width. It affects the handling and stability of the vehicle, as well as the comfort of the ride. A lower aspect ratio (shorter sidewall) typically results in improved cornering and handling, while a higher aspect ratio (taller sidewall) provides a softer and more comfortable ride.
Quality
Quality is crucial for tires, as it affects their durability and performance. Choosing a reputable tire manufacturer known for producing high-quality tires is essential. You can do so by checking customer reviews, ratings, and the manufacturer’s warranty policies.
Budget-friendly
For those on a budget, there are budget-friendly tire options available that can still provide good performance and fuel economy. Many major brands have an economy range of tires that offer reliable performance and durability. Comparing different models from different brands can help you find the best value for your money.
Warranty
Warranty is also an important consideration, as it can offer peace of mind and protect against unexpected car repairs. Most tire manufacturers offer warranties that cover defects in material and workmanship. Checking the warranty coverage before purchasing is essential to ensure you get the protection you need.
Customer Feedback
Customer feedback, online reviews, and ratings can provide valuable insight into the best tires for your vehicle, as they offer real-world experiences and opinions from other drivers. Reading these reviews can help you decide when choosing the right tire brand for your car.
Online Reviews and Ratings
Many websites and platforms provide user reviews and ratings for different tire brands and models. This information can be invaluable in making a decision, as it provides insight into the experiences of other customers who have purchased and used the tires. Look for brands that have consistently high ratings and positive reviews, as this is a good indication that the tires are high-quality and perform well. By researching online reviews and ratings, you can gain valuable insights into which high-quality tires best fit your vehicle and driving needs.
Finding the right tire brand and model can significantly improve your driving experience while ensuring road safety, performance, and comfort. Considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best tire brand for your car.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Which car tire brand is best to buy online?
Many popular tire brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone can be bought online. It’s important to check the seller’s reputation and read reviews before purchasing.
2) Which car tire brands offer the best traction on wet surfaces?
Some tire brands known for their excellent wet traction include Continental, Michelin, and Pirelli.
3) Are there any budget-friendly car tire brands?
Yes, there are budget-friendly car tire brands such as Kumho, General Tire, and Falken. They offer good quality and fuel economy at a reasonable price.
4) What car tire brands are popular among professional racers?
Brands popular among professional racers include Michelin, Pirelli, and Dunlop. These brands are known for their high-performance tires that offer excellent grip and handling.
5) Are there any eco-friendly car tire brands that focus on sustainability?
Some eco-friendly tire brands prioritizing sustainability include Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear. They use recycled materials, reduce emissions, and promote eco-friendly practices.
6) Which car tire brands offer the best warranty and customer support?
Brands with good warranties and customer support include Michelin, Goodyear, and Continental. They offer long warranty periods and good customer service for any repairs or replacements.
