Aftermarket tires are replacement tires manufactured by companies other than your vehicle's original equipment manufacturer (OEM). These tires provide vehicle owners with extensive customization options beyond what came with their car from the factory. Unlike OEM tires that are engineered for specific vehicle models, aftermarket tires are designed to fit multiple makes and models, giving drivers the flexibility to choose options that match their driving needs, preferences, and budget.
We carry the best selection of aftermarket tires from manufacturers who focus on different performance characteristics. Some prioritize enhanced traction for better grip, while others emphasize improved fuel efficiency or reduced road noise. This diverse range of specialized designs allows drivers to select tires that deliver specific benefits suited to their particular driving conditions. Drivers in snowy regions might choose winter tires with superior cold-weather grip, while those focused on fuel economy can opt for tires designed with reduced rolling resistance.
The aftermarket tire market offers huge selection and inventory from numerous sources, including tire retailers, online vendors, and select dealerships. This widespread availability ensures you can find tires that fit both your budget and performance requirements. However, quality and performance vary significantly across different brands and models. That's why thorough research, reading reviews, and consulting with tire professionals are essential steps when selecting aftermarket tires.
Aftermarket tires deliver excellent value through their competitive pricing structure. With multiple brands and price points available, you can select tires that fit your budget while meeting specific performance criteria. This range often provides better financial value, as you can focus on essential features without paying for unnecessary extras.
For vehicle customization enthusiasts, aftermarket tires open up exciting personalization opportunities. Performance-oriented drivers can explore different tire sizes and types, including staggered fitments with different specifications for front and rear wheels. Changing tire aspect ratio and width from OEM specifications can impact grip, acceleration, braking distance, fuel efficiency, and overall ride comfort.
Quality considerations remain important when shopping for aftermarket tires. Not all aftermarket options meet the same rigorous standards as OEM selections, which can lead to differences in reliability and safety. Some budget-priced options might compromise on tread longevity or structural integrity, requiring more frequent replacements and potentially increasing long-term costs.
Aftermarket tires excel at addressing specific driving conditions more effectively than the one-size-fits-most approach of OEM tires. This specialization allows for improved handling, durability, or performance based on your individual priorities and typical driving environments.
The name "aftermarket" tells the whole story. These products enter the automotive market after your vehicle leaves the dealership with its original equipment. The automotive aftermarket covers everything from performance parts to maintenance services that become available once you own your vehicle.
This terminology dates back to 1887, when "aftermarket" first described secondary markets that operated after primary sales were complete. The automotive industry adopted this concept to distinguish products and services available after vehicles leave the factory.
When we talk about aftermarket tires, we're describing their position in the automotive supply chain. They represent the replacement stage that comes after your original purchase. This creates a clear line between what manufacturers install during production and what you choose to install later.
The automotive aftermarket breaks down into three main categories:
OEM replacement parts made by original manufacturers
Aftermarket performance parts for modifications
Aftermarket accessories for comfort and customization
Tires earn the "aftermarket" label because they offer alternatives once your factory tires need replacement. These options go beyond what came with your vehicle originally. Unlike OEM tires developed for specific car models, aftermarket tires are designed around size specifications that fit multiple makes and models.
The aftermarket classification doesn't indicate quality - it simply describes market timing. Some people call these "non-OE tires" to separate them from factory equipment. Don't assume aftermarket means lower quality. Many aftermarket components match or exceed original equipment standards.
This distinction matters because OEM tires are built to vehicle manufacturer specifications, which may prioritize different features than what tire companies would emphasize. Aftermarket tires can focus on specific performance characteristics instead of the balanced approach required for factory equipment.
The "aftermarket" name exists because these tires create a secondary market for drivers seeking replacements or upgrades after buying their vehicle. This secondary market opens up extensive customization possibilities, allowing you to match your tire selection to your driving style, local weather conditions, or specific performance goals.
Understanding the different types of aftermarket tires is essential before making a purchase. Each category addresses specific driving challenges and delivers distinct advantages for particular conditions. We offer a comprehensive selection of all these tire types to match your vehicle's needs and driving style.
Performance tires deliver exceptional handling and grip for drivers who demand maximum control. These tires feature low-profile sidewalls and large tread blocks that provide superior road contact and responsive steering. The unique tread patterns include larger circumferential and lateral grooves that maintain traction in both wet and dry conditions.
Most performance tires use silica-infused rubber compounds that stay flexible across various temperatures, delivering reliable performance year-round. This enhanced grip comes at a cost: performance tires typically wear faster than standard options and produce more road noise due to their aggressive tread design.
These tires work best when you drive on well-maintained roads and want responsive handling during cornering, acceleration, and braking. Sports car owners and enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving will appreciate the benefits performance tires provide.
All-terrain tires serve as the versatile middle ground between highway comfort and off-road capability. Their deeper, more aggressive tread patterns handle unpaved surfaces effectively while maintaining acceptable on-road manners. These tires feature reinforced sidewalls and durable compounds that resist punctures from rocks, roots, and debris commonly encountered on trails.
The compromise nature of all-terrain tires means they don't excel in any single area - instead, they provide adequate performance across diverse conditions. On-road noise levels run higher than standard highway tires, and fuel efficiency decreases due to increased rolling resistance. The heavier construction also impacts acceleration and braking distances.
All-terrain tires shine for drivers who regularly encounter unpaved roads, whether for work or recreation. Light truck and SUV owners who split their driving between highways and trails find these tires deliver the versatility they need without committing to dedicated off-road or highway tires.
Winter tires are specifically engineered for cold weather performance, maintaining flexibility and grip when temperatures drop below 45°F (7°C). The specialized rubber compounds remain pliable in freezing conditions, while deep treads and numerous sipes create biting edges that grip ice and snow effectively.
These tires transform vehicle handling in winter conditions, reducing stopping distances and improving control on slippery surfaces. However, the soft compound that provides cold-weather advantages wears rapidly in warm temperatures and creates excessive road noise. Many jurisdictions legally require winter tires during certain months or in specific regions.
Winter tires make sense for drivers facing regular snow, ice, or freezing temperatures. Installing a dedicated winter tire set and switching seasonally provides optimal safety and performance throughout the year while extending the life of both winter and summer tire sets.
Touring tires prioritize comfort, quiet operation, and longevity for daily driving. These tires feature symmetric tread patterns that minimize road noise and provide smooth, predictable handling characteristics. The balanced design delivers reliable all-season performance without sacrificing ride comfort.
Manufacturers optimize touring tires for extended tread life, often including warranties covering 60,000 to 80,000 miles. The rubber compounds balance durability with adequate grip, though they won't match the performance capabilities of specialized tires. Fuel efficiency typically improves compared to more aggressive tire designs.
Touring tires suit daily commuters and highway drivers who value comfort and longevity over maximum performance. Sedan and crossover owners who prioritize a refined driving experience find these tires deliver excellent value through their extended service life and predictable behavior.
Run-flat tires incorporate reinforced sidewalls that support the vehicle's weight even after complete air pressure loss. This technology allows continued driving - typically up to 50 miles at reduced speed - providing time to reach a service facility safely. The convenience eliminates roadside tire changes and reduces the need for spare tire storage.
The reinforced construction creates a stiffer ride quality compared to conventional tires, transmitting more road imperfections into the cabin. Run-flat tires also cost more initially and limit repair options, as many punctures require complete tire replacement rather than simple patching.
Run-flat tires benefit drivers who prioritize convenience and security over ride comfort. Luxury vehicle owners and those who frequently drive in remote areas appreciate the continued mobility these tires provide after punctures. However, proper tire pressure monitoring becomes critical, as run-flat tires can lose pressure without obvious visual indicators.
Aftermarket tires offer one of the most cost-effective ways to upgrade your vehicle's performance, safety, and appearance. Understanding when to make the switch can help you get the most value from your investment.
Performance-focused driving calls for aftermarket solutions. When you want superior handling, choose aftermarket tires with higher speed ratings and specialized tread patterns. These performance-oriented options deliver better traction in wet and dry conditions, allowing your vehicle to accelerate, brake, and corner with greater precision.
Seasonal driving challenges make aftermarket tires essential. If you regularly face snow, ice, or extreme summer heat, specialized aftermarket snow tires or summer tires provide substantially better safety and handling than factory all-season compromises. Performance tires grip the road more effectively, shortening braking distances when you need them most.
Budget considerations often favor aftermarket alternatives. Many aftermarket options cost significantly less than OEM replacements while delivering equal or superior quality. Value-oriented brands provide economical solutions that maintain essential performance characteristics without breaking your budget.
Vehicle customization becomes possible with aftermarket selections. Numerous styles and designs allow you to transform your vehicle's appearance while simultaneously improving performance metrics. Whether you want a sleek urban look or aggressive off-road styling, aftermarket options provide the variety factory tires simply cannot match.
Fuel economy improvements represent another compelling reason to choose aftermarket tires. Some options reduce rolling resistance, requiring less energy to move your vehicle and potentially improving fuel efficiency. Lighter aftermarket wheels reduce unsprung weight, further enhancing efficiency and handling responsiveness.
Before making your aftermarket tire purchase, consider your primary driving conditions, potential size changes, budget constraints, and performance requirements. At Performance Plus Tire, our tire specialists can guide you through the selection process to ensure you choose the right tires for your specific vehicle and driving style.
Understanding aftermarket tires empowers drivers to make informed decisions about tire replacements that can significantly enhance their vehicle's performance, safety, and value.
• Aftermarket tires are new replacement tires from non-OEM manufacturers, offering specialized performance benefits and customization options beyond factory equipment.
• Five main types serve different needs: performance tires for handling, all-terrain for versatility, winter for cold conditions, touring for comfort, and run-flat for safety.
• Unlike OEM tires designed for specific vehicles, aftermarket options prioritize specialized attributes like enhanced grip, fuel efficiency, or extreme weather performance.
• Consider aftermarket tires when seeking performance upgrades, seasonal specialization, budget savings, or esthetic customization that factory tires cannot provide.
• Quality varies significantly across brands and price points, making thorough research and professional consultation essential for optimal tire selection.
The aftermarket tire market offers tremendous flexibility for drivers to optimize their vehicles for specific driving conditions, performance goals, and budget constraints while potentially improving safety and efficiency beyond original equipment capabilities.
Aftermarket tires are replacement tires manufactured by companies other than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of a vehicle. They offer drivers more customization options and are designed to fit a variety of makes and models, often focusing on specific performance aspects like enhanced traction or improved fuel efficiency.
While OEM tires are tailored for specific vehicle models, aftermarket tires prioritize specialized performance attributes. They often offer more diverse options in terms of design, performance, and price. Aftermarket tires can sometimes provide better performance in specific areas, but quality can vary significantly across brands and price points.
Not necessarily. While some aftermarket tires are more budget-friendly, high-quality aftermarket options can be as expensive as or even pricier than OEM tires. The price range for aftermarket tires is vast, from budget options to premium performance tires that can cost significantly more than OEM equivalents.
Consider aftermarket tires when you're looking for specialized performance (like enhanced grip or fuel efficiency), need tires for specific weather conditions, want to customize your vehicle's appearance, or are seeking a potentially more cost-effective option. It's also worth considering aftermarket tires if you're unsatisfied with the performance of your OEM tires.
When purchased from reputable manufacturers and properly installed, aftermarket tires can be just as safe as OEM tires. However, it's crucial to choose tires that meet your vehicle's specifications and are suitable for your driving conditions. Always research the brand and model, and consult with a tire professional to ensure you're making a safe choice.
