When it comes to vehicle maintenance, choosing the right tires is crucial for performance and safety. Supporting American-made tire brands not only enhances your car's performance but also strengthens the local economy.
Finding tires that are both high-quality and manufactured in America can be challenging. Many tire brands have outsourced production overseas, but some reputable companies still produce tires domestically. Here's a look at three notable tire brands that proudly manufacture in the USA, ensuring you get performance while supporting local jobs.
1. Goodyear Tires
Renowned for their longevity and affordable pricing, Goodyear Tires has been a cornerstone of American tire manufacturing since its establishment in Akron, Ohio, in 1898. Despite its global presence, Goodyear maintains several manufacturing plants within the United States.
Manufacturing Locations:
- Ohio (MB)
- Oklahoma (M6)
- Virginia (MC)
- Alabama (MD)
- North Carolina (MM, PJ)
- Kansas (MJ)
- Illinois (MN)
- Texas (MP, PL)
- Tennessee (MK)
Goodyear is famous for offering tires that cater to various driving conditions, making them a preferred choice for many American drivers. The company continues to innovate, with recent initiatives exploring new technologies like self-regenerating tires for electric vehicles (EVs).
2. Cooper Tires
Another heavyweight in the tire industry, Cooper Tires, has its roots in Findlay, Ohio, where it has operated since 1917. Known for its budget-friendly pricing without compromising quality, Cooper Tires appeals to a broad audience, especially those looking for affordable options comparable to premium brands like Bridgestone.
Manufacturing Locations:
- Findlay, Ohio (UP)
- Georgia (3D)
- Mississippi (U9)
- Arkansas (UT)
Cooper's line-up includes subsidiary brands such as Mickey Thompson and Mastercraft, which also maintain a commitment to domestic manufacturing. Although Cooper Tires experienced recent recalls, the brand remains a dependable choice for everyday drivers.
3. TreadWright Tires
Based entirely in the USA, TreadWright is a unique player in the tire market, having focused on environmental sustainability since its inception. Situated in Houston, Texas, TreadWright stands out for its non-commercial tire remolding process, ensuring all their products are crafted within the country.
Manufacturing Practices:
Using cutting-edge Mold Cure technology, TreadWright takes high-quality names like Toyo and Bridgestone, refurbishing them through an eco-friendly process that conserves resources. Their remolded tires come with a lifetime mileage guarantee of up to 50k miles, appealing to both performance seekers and environmentally conscious consumers.
Other Notable Brands
American manufacturing isn’t limited to domestic companies. Several foreign-owned brands maintain production facilities in the United States, providing additional options for consumers who prioritize local manufacturing. For instance
- Continental (German) has plants in Illinois and Ohio.
- Pirelli (Italian) manufactures tires in California and Tennessee.
- Yokohama (Japanese) has locations in Virginia.
- Michelin (French) operates multiple facilities in South Carolina and Alabama.
How to Identify Made in America Tires
Understanding where your tires are made is crucial for supporting local manufacturing. To discern whether a tire is American-made, look for the Department of Transportation (DOT) code embossed on the sidewall. The code will include two-character designations indicating the manufacturing location. Here’s how it works
1. Locate the letters “DOT” on your tire.
2. Check the following two characters, which can be either letters or a combination of letters and numbers.
3. Research the corresponding location based on this code to confirm if it was manufactured in the USA.
Making the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
Investing in tires goes beyond performance; it's about making informed choices that reflect your values. Supporting American-made tire brands means investing in local economies and contributing to sustainable practices. Whether you opt for the renowned reliability of Goodyear, the budget-savvy appeal of Cooper, or the eco-friendly approach of TreadWright, each choice reinforces the importance of domestic manufacturing.
Power your vehicle with tires that meet your driving needs while backing the community. Remember, when you choose wisely, your tires can last longer and make a significant difference in your local economy at the same time.