If you’re replacing your tires for the first time, you might not know the difference between OEM tires (sometimes called OE or stock tires) and aftermarket tires (the tires usually found in tire shops). Is it better to stick with what you’re familiar with, or are there benefits to shopping around?
Our experts break down what OEM tires are, weighing the pros and cons of purchasing OEM tire replacements. In a nutshell: OEM tires perform well under standard conditions, but shopping for other tires can get you an upgrade for less!
Related: Browse our online tire inventory to find the right tire at the right price!
What Are OEM Tires?
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tires are your car’s default tires. Automakers often partner with top tire brands like Michelin and Goodyear to select tires that balance performance, safety, comfort, and other critical performance traits, depending on the car model.
Most OEM tires are all-season, though some may vary widely between vehicles. For example, a sports car might come with touring tires, while a camper may come with OEM tires better suited to off-road conditions.
To find your car’s exact OEM tire, contact your car dealer or a trusted tire shop with your vehicle’s model, trim, and year. Include the tire specs found in your car’s manual or on the door jamb sticker, which can help you identify the right tire. Most tire brands include an identifiable symbol stamped into their OEM tires.
From there, you can purchase the OEM tire through your dealership or from a used tire outlet at a discounted price.
Advantages of OEM Tires
Because OEM tires are specifically chosen to enhance a car’s performance, there are several benefits to sticking with them through your vehicle’s early lifespan. A lot of research and development goes into designing an OEM tire for a car. As a result, they’re:
Well-tested for Safety – Automakers usually assess several tires across numerous criteria to determine which OEM tire is the best.
Designed for Comfort – Original equipment tires prioritize a smooth and quiet ride, better handling, and improved fuel economy under dry conditions.
Consistent in Resale Value – OEM tires are often a selling point for buyers who want factory-original equipment.
Disadvantages of OEM Tires
Despite the clear benefits, original equipment tires are not always the best driving option because they’re a one-size-fits-all solution. This makes them restrictive under certain scenarios, pushing drivers to explore aftermarket options. OEM tires:
Cost More Than Aftermarket Tires – The most cited disadvantage is that OEM tires can cost as much as premium options without the high-end performance. Pricing is a top hurdle for drivers looking for something more affordable.
Can Have a Shorter Tread Life – Some OEM tires focus on comfort over tread life, which can shorten the tire’s lifespan without proper maintenance.
Come in Limited Options – Original equipment tires are brand-specific. If you prefer a different tire brand, you’ll have to switch to an aftermarket tire.
May Not Perform Well in All Conditions – Automakers test OEM tires under ideal conditions that might not match your climate. You may need to switch to summer or winter tires, depending on the season and your location.
OEM vs Aftermarket Tires: Which Should I Buy?
Aftermarket tires are replacement tires that come in various vehicle and wheel specifications. While OEM tires focus on a balanced, factory-tested ride, aftermarket tires open the door to more options. Many drivers prefer these tires because they’re affordable, and you can choose the right tire for your driving needs and conditions.
You should buy aftermarket tires if:
You want a tire designed for specific conditions (e.g., off-road, wet road, etc.)
You live in an area with extreme climates (e.g., heat, winter, ice, etc.)
You’re looking for longer tread life or better performance (e.g., load rating)
You’d like to save money with more budget-friendly options
You should buy OEM tires if:
You lease your car and want to avoid issues at turn-in
You like the way your car rides and don’t want to change it
You care about resale value and originality
OEM Tire FAQs
How Long Do OEM Tires Last?
On average, OEM tires last between 30,000 and 50,000 miles, depending on the tire brand, vehicle type, and your driving habits.
Do OEM Tires Wear Out Faster Than Aftermarket Tires?
It depends! In theory, OEM tires should not wear out faster than aftermarket tires of the same model. However, some drivers have noticed that their OEM tires have a shorter lifespan than their replacements, speculating that OEM tires prioritize fuel economy and handling over tread life. Ultimately, the answer depends on the automaker and their OEM tire performance priorities.
How Do I Replace My OEM Tire?
When replacing your tire with an aftermarket option, look for tires of the same tire size (e.g., width, aspect ratio, and diameter. You can find this information on your car’s door jamb or in the vehicle manual. Unsure how to read your tire size? Search online for tires that are compatible with your car model or talk to a professional for help.
Find OEM Tires for Your Car in Rochester, NY
OEM tires are designed to give you a safe, balanced, and reliable ride straight from the factory. But they’re not always the best fit for every driver. If you want the exact driving experience your car was built for, OEM tires are worth it. If you’re after longevity, performance, or savings, aftermarket tires may be the smarter choice.
Hooper’s Tire Outlet offers an expansive selection of tires, and our Rochester, NY, location also sells new tires. Explore our inventory to find affordable, high-quality tires, whether you’re looking for OEMs or high-performing aftermarket options.