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Car Buying
Unless we're talking about tires used for specific conditions (snow, summer, off-road, etc.), we imagine most new car buyers don't think twice about the rubber on their ride. J.D. Power and Associates does, and it recently rated consumer satisfaction for the top tire brands in various vehicle segments, and it found that
Michelin was consistently at or among the top-satisfying tire brands. As a part of this study, it also found some interesting data regarding two growing types of tires: run-flat and low-rolling resistance.
Both of these tire types are used in different ways in an attempt to improve the fuel economy of modern vehicles, but there are also some draw backs involved. Run-flat tires help automakers shave precious pounds from a car's curb weight by removing the spare tire, but on average, J.D. Power says owners replace these tires twice as often as regular tires. The problem with low-rolling resistance tires might have to do more with marketing than anything else, as the study suggests that most consumers just don't understand how these tires benefit the them and what compromises must be made.
The study didn't mention price, but generally speaking, run-flat and low-rolling resistance tires also cost more to replace than standard tires - even worse, run-flats often need to be replaced in pairs, according to the study (note: we recommend changing all four tires whenever possible, run-flat or no).
Scroll down to read more about the study including the various scores each tire manufacturer received.
Continue reading J.D. Power says drivers increasingly frustrated by low-rolling resistance and run-flat tires
J.D. Power says drivers increasingly frustrated by low-rolling resistance and run-flat tires originally appeared on
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Study: J.D. Power says drivers increasingly frustrated by low-rolling resistance and
