Some drivers could also be noticing they’re paying extra for tires, and it could merely be as a result of the automobile they’re driving comes with larger wheels. A brand new set of commerce tariffs additionally threaten to boost costs.

The rise of the game utility automobile in America has additionally led to the rise of the SUV tire, which is usually pricier than a tire for the smaller wheels traditionally discovered on passenger automobiles resembling sedans.

One 2019 survey from Shopper Reviews discovered the median buyer was spending $137 on a a tire for a sedan, coupe, hatchback or minivan, not together with the price of set up. The worth for an SUV tire was $162. Pickup vans have been much more costly, at $175.

Completely different forces have been exacting contrasting influences over tires and their pricing. A small however vital slice of customers are shopping for tires on-line – and retailers resembling Amazon are thought to have a “modest” affect on tire promoting, within the phrases of analyst John Healy of Northcoast Analysis.

On the identical time, the pattern towards sport utility automobiles, pickup vans, and even bigger diameter wheels on sedans and sports activities automobiles is favorable towards premium giant tiremakers with premium model names, resembling Michelin, Goodyear and Bridgestone.

Additional upsetting tire market share are looming tariffs on 4 Southeast Asian international locations that would disproportionately have an effect on lower-priced tire manufacturers, favor home American ones and lift costs.

“The current tariffs which have been preliminarily decided have an effect on nearly 30% of the complete U.S. shopper tire market and at a median tariff charge of 30%,” stated Keybanc analyst James Picariello. “So we’re speaking a few vital affect that does not go away.”