What Exactly Is A “Original Equipment” Tyre?
In simple terms, Original Equipment (or OE) tyres seem to be the tyres that came with a vehicle when it was new.
To select OE tyres, automakers collaborate with tyre manufacturers to select or establish tyres that enhance the vehicle’s qualities and reasons. For example, an automaker may select a tyre with a lavish, quiet ride for a luxury vehicle. An eco-friendly low rolling resistance tyre for a combination. And for a supercar, a tyre like Citroen wheel spacers with improved handling and overall quality.
In some instances, tyre manufacturers create and test custom-made editions of one‘s tyres, or even introduce new tyres to address a particular OE application.
Michelin, for example, creates spec editions of some of their performance tyres to be an excellent combination for specific Porsche 911 models.
For a given vehicle, several OE tyres may be available. Assume you own a 2013 Honda Accord sedan. Depending on the model, it could have Seat wheel spacers from up to six different manufacturers.
Are original equipment tyres always the best alternative for my vehicle?
While car makers typically select OE tyres that are a good fit for the vehicle, this does not always imply that OE tyres are the safest alternative. Not every OE conversation between a vehicle and a tyre manufacturer involves high-level tyre development that is unique to the vehicle and critical to its performance.
A variety of variables influence the selection of OE tyres, including the status of the vehicle company’s business relationship with tyre manufacturers, anticipated car sales by region and anticipated use (which may or may not be simply a reflection of your situations), and, of course, economics.
So it’s not universally true that OE tyres are always the best wheels obtainable during vehicle creation and manufacturing, let alone the best option for your vehicle and situations indefinitely. This is particularly true if your car has seen better days.
Tyre technology is constantly evolving, and the OE tyres that were installed on your car 5 or 6 years ago, or even 3 years ago, are likely to be behind curve when compared to more recent tyres of the exact same type.
It’s reasonable to say that OE tyres have traditionally been a mixed bag. Some are almost universally praised by users, while others have a less-than-ideal reputation due to poor performance, longevity (treadlife), or both.
There is enough variation in OE tyre value that a thorough review of tyre options once your OE tyres lapse is probably a good idea.
Not to mention that OE tyres are sometimes significantly more expensive than arguably superior substitute tyres.
Myths and FAQs
I require new tyres. Do I have to purchase OE tyres?
Sticking with OE tyres may be considered almost mandatory in specific contexts where the OE tyres were specially made from the bottom up in combination with the vehicle and are foundational to such performance requirements of that vehicle. This, even so, is far more of an oddity than a rule.
Utilising only OE tyres is not required for the vast majority of us who do not drive European sports cars. However, before abandoning OE and purchasing replacement tyres, do some research on your current tyres.
Understand and predict how they may influence or alter the way you drive your car, and make certain that those changes are welcomed.
Why would I choose replacement tyres over OE?
If you don’t like your OE tyres or want to change the way your car drives – for example, to make it much more fuel-efficient or to give it a fairly quiet ride, sportier managing, or better wet traction – replacement tyres may be the answer.
Another common motivator is affordability. Substitute tyres are sometimes significantly less expensive than OE tyres, and the effectiveness and/or longevity of the OE tyres do not justify the premium price.
Also, as previously stated, OE tyre quality isn’t always ideal, and tyre technology deteriorates as your vehicle ages.
Your vehicle’s replacement tyre options may be more modern, higher performing, more sturdy, and even less expensive!
How do I select the proper set of replacement tyres?
Look for a set of tyres that highlights the characteristics you want your car to have.
Touring tyres, for instance –, will prioritize comfort and low noise, whereas ultra-high performance tyres will prioritize exceptional handling.
Why do new car tyres degrade so quickly?
No, OE tyres really aren’t designed to be less durable than aftermarket rubber. Simply put, they are under excessive pressure. When selecting OE tyres, vehicle manufacturers place a premium on bringing out “car characteristics” (read: comfort).
However, these Wheel Spacers are frequently unable to withstand the strain of driving. This is because tyre companies use a soft rubber compound. Tyres have an average mileage of 50,000 miles, but soft chemical OE tyres are unlikely to last that long.
A new set of OE tyres will not be able to withstand the road conditions for long. Stock tyres use delicate compounds to provide customers with a comfortable ride.
