When it’s time to replace your tires, you face a big choice: go with the original equipment (OE) tires or pick an aftermarket set. Understanding the key difference between OE and aftermarket tires is crucial for making the right decision for your car and budget.
This guide will explain what each type is, their pros and cons, and how to choose. We’ll cut through the jargon so you can feel confident about your next purchase.
Key Difference Between OE And Aftermarket Tires
In simple terms, OE tires are the specific brand and model chosen by your car’s manufacturer. Aftermarket tires are any tires you buy separately, offering a wider range of brands, performance types, and prices. The key difference lies in their design purpose and selection process.
What Are Original Equipment (OE) Tires?
OE tires are selected by automakers like Ford, Toyota, or BMW during the vehicle’s development. They are chosen to match the car’s intended handling, comfort, and fuel efficiency goals.
- They are often a specific model from a major brand (e.g., Michelin Primacy MXM4 on a Honda Accord).
- The tire’s design is sometimes tweaked to work perfectly with the car’s suspension and electronic systems.
- You’ll see them on a brand-new car at the dealership.
What Are Aftermarket Tires?
Aftermarket tires encompass every other tire available for sale. This includes everything from budget-friendly options to ultra-high-performance models. You choose them based on your personal driving needs and preferences.
- They are purchased from tire shops, online retailers, or dealerships after you own the car.
- The selection is vast, allowing you to prioritize things like snow traction, mileage warranty, or sporty handling.
- They are not customized for any single vehicle model.
The Main Areas of Difference
Let’s break down where these two tire categories truly diverge. This will help you see why the choice matters.
1. Design and Tuning
OE tires are tuned for balance. Carmakers want a tire that delivers a quiet ride, good fuel economy, and secure handling—all while keeping cost in mind. Sometimes, they work with the tire maker to adjust the compound or internal structure.
Aftermarket tires are designed to excel in specific areas. A tire model might be engineered for maximum wet grip, long treadlife, or off-road capability. You get to pick the strength that matters most to you.
2. Performance and Feel
OE tires aim to reflect the car’s character. A luxury sedan will have quiet, comfortable OE tires. A sports car will have stickier, responsive ones. They make the car feel as the engineers intended.
Aftermarket tires let you change your car’s character. You can make a family SUV handle more sharply with performance tires, or improve a sedan’s winter safety with dedicated snow tires. The feel behind the wheel can shift significantly.
3. Cost and Value
OE tires from a dealership can be expensive. You’re often paying for the convenience and the exact match. Sometimes, the exact OE model is hard to find elsewhere.
Aftermarket tires offer a much wider price range. You can often find a tire with better performance or a longer warranty for a similar price to the OE tire. Comparison shopping is easier.
4. Availability and Choice
Your OE tire choice is limited to the one or two models the carmaker picked. If that model is discontinued or out of stock, you might be stuck.
The aftermarket world is your oyster. Dozens of brands and hundreds of models exist in your size. You can read reviews, compare test results, and find the perfect tire for your local climate and driving style.
When Should You Stick With OE Tires?
Choosing the original tires is sometimes the best path. Consider it in these situations.
- You are completely satisfied with how your car rides and handles now. Why change a good thing?
- Your vehicle has advanced systems like specific torque-vectoring or refined suspension tuning that relies on the OE tire’s characteristics.
- Your car is under lease, and you want to avoid any potential issues at turn-in (check your lease terms).
- You simply want the easiest, no-research option and are willing to pay for it.
When Should You Consider Aftermarket Tires?
Looking beyond the OE option can be highly beneficial. Aftermarket tires are a great choice if:
- You want to improve a specific area, like winter traction, tread life, or dry road grip.
- You need to adjust your budget and find a more affordable reliable option.
- The OE tires wore out quicker than you expected, and you want a different model with a better warranty.
- You’ve moved to a different climate and need tires better suited for heavy rain, heat, or snow.
- You enjoy customizing your vehicle’s performance and feel.
How to Choose the Right Aftermarket Tire
Feeling overwhelmed by choice? Follow these steps to narrow it down.
- Check Your Size: Look at your driver’s side door jamb for the placard. It lists the exact tire size (e.g., P225/65R17 100T). This is your starting point.
- Identify Your Priority: Decide what’s most important: all-season safety, sporty handling, long mileage, or winter driving? You can’t have it all, so pick one or two top needs.
- Set a Budget: Know what you’re willing to spend per tire, including installation fees. Remember, cheaper tires sometimes cost more in the long run if they wear out fast.
- Research and Compare: Use reputable tire review websites and comparison tools. Look for consistent feedback across multiple sources, not just one glowing review.
- Check Warranties: Compare the treadwear warranty (in miles) and any road hazard coverage. A longer warranty can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in its product.
- Buy from a Reputable Installer: Choose a shop that offers professional installation, balancing, and alignment services. Proper installation is critical for safety and performance.
Common Misconceptions About Tires
Let’s clear up a few myths that can cloud your decision.
- “OE tires are always the best for my car.” They are the best for the car as the maker designed it, but not necessarily the best for your specific needs or driving conditions.
- “All tires in my size are the same.” This is dangerously incorrect. Performance, safety margins, and durability vary wildly between models and price points.
- “I must replace all four tires at once.” On all-wheel-drive vehicles, this is often required to avoid damaging drivetrain components. For two-wheel-drive cars, you can usually replace them in pairs (both fronts or both rears). Always check your owner’s manual.
- “The tire that came on the car is the only one that’s safe.” Any tire that meets or exceeds the speed rating and load index on your door jamb placard, and is properly installed, is a safe choice.
FAQs About OE vs. Aftermarket Tires
Are aftermarket tires worse quality than OE?
No, not at all. Many aftermarket tires are of equal or higher quality than OE tires. The OE tire is often a mid-range model from a brand’s lineup, chosen for balance and cost. You can choose a higher-end aftermarket model for better performance.
Can I mix OE and aftermarket tires?
It’s not recommended, especially on the same axle. Mixing different tire models can lead to uneven handling and stress on your drivetrain. For the best and safest performance, use identical tires on each axle, and ideally on all four wheels.
Will aftermarket tires affect my fuel economy?
They can. Some aftermarket tires are designed for lower rolling resistance and can improve fuel economy. Others, like aggressive all-terrain or performance tires, may reduce it slightly. Look for fuel efficiency ratings in tire reviews.
Do I need an alignment after getting new tires?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Installing new tires on a misaligned vehicle will cause them to wear unevenly and prematurely. An alignment ensures you get the full life and performance from your investment.
Is the OE tire always more expensive?
Not always, but it often is at the dealership. Shopping around at tire shops for the exact OE model can sometimes yield a better price. However, aftermarket alternatives frequently provide better value for your specific needs.
Choosing between OE and aftermarket tires ultimately comes down to your personal needs. If you love your car’s current behavior and want a simple replacement, seek out the OE model. If you want to tailor your driving experience, save money, or find a tire better suited to your environment, the aftermarket world offers fantastic options.
Always do your research, buy from a trusted source, and prioritize proper installation. Your tires are the only part of your car that touch the road, so choosing the right ones is a decision that pays off in safety, performance, and satisfaction every mile.