Who supplies Toyota with tires?
Toyota sources tires from several global manufacturers, and there isn’t a single exclusive supplier; original equipment tires vary by model and market.
Across markets and vehicle lines, Toyota relies on multiple tire makers to meet performance specifications, regional supply chains, and production contracts. As a result, you may see different brand names on Toyota vehicles depending on the country, model year, and factory.
Global tire partners
The following brands have served as original equipment tire suppliers to Toyota across various markets. Note that the exact brand and tire specifications used can change by vehicle and production year.
- Bridgestone (Japan) — a common OE tire supplier for Toyota models in several regions.
- Michelin (France) — used on select Toyota models in Europe and North America.
- Sumitomo Rubber Industries / Dunlop (Japan) — provides OE tires for a range of Toyota vehicles in multiple markets.
- Yokohama Rubber (Japan) — supplies tires for certain Toyota models in some regions.
- Goodyear (USA) — has been an OE option for Toyota models in North America.
- Continental (Germany) — supplies OE tires for some Toyota vehicles in Europe and other markets.
- Pirelli (Italy) — involved as an OE supplier for certain Toyota models in Europe and Asia.
- Toyo Tires (Japan) — used as an OE option for some Toyota models in select markets.
- Hankook (South Korea) — appears in certain regional variants or contract-specific tire programs for Toyota.
Within any given model, the exact tire brand, size, and specification are determined by Toyota’s engineering and procurement teams in collaboration with the chosen supplier, and can vary by trim level or production year.
Regional variations
The choice of tire supplier often reflects regional agreements and factory production lines. For instance, a North American version of a model might arrive with one OEM brand, while a European version could use a different partner. Dealers may also offer replacements from the same brand family or alternatives that meet Toyota’s performance criteria.
Because tire manufacturing and procurement are dynamic, the lineup of Toyota’s OEM tire partners can evolve with new contracts, tire technologies, and vehicle platforms.
Summary
In short, Toyota does not rely on a single tire supplier. Its tires come from a diverse set of manufacturers, with the exact brand depending on the model, region, and production period. This diversified approach helps Toyota tailor performance, safety, and supply chain resilience across its global lineup.
What brand does Toyota use for tires?
Toyota uses many different tire brands, including Bridgestone, Michelin, Dunlop, Goodyear, and Toyo, which are selected based on the specific model, trim, and intended use. For example, a luxury model might come with Michelin tires for comfort, while a TRD Pro version of a truck would likely have Goodyear or BFGoodrich for off-road performance. The specific brand and model will vary depending on the year, model, and even where the vehicle was manufactured.
- Bridgestone: Often used on SUVs and trucks for durability and performance.
- Michelin: Frequently equipped on luxury models for a quiet, comfortable ride.
- Goodyear: Chosen for all-weather traction and safety in models that need reliable performance across different climates.
- Dunlop: Sometimes paired with sportier trims for responsive handling and stability.
- Toyo: Used on various models, such as the Prius, with different lines for different purposes.
- BFGoodrich: Also provides tires for Toyota, including all-terrain options for trucks.
Should I buy tires from a Toyota dealership?
You should consider buying tires from a Toyota dealership if you prioritize expert installation, specific recommendations for your vehicle, and included extras like road hazard coverage, as a dealership's factory-trained technicians can ensure the tires are installed correctly for optimal performance and safety. However, you should also shop around, as independent tire stores or big-box retailers may offer more competitive pricing or different warranty options that could be a better fit for your budget.
Pros of buying from a Toyota dealership
- Expert installation: Factory-trained technicians ensure the tires are mounted, balanced, and aligned correctly for your specific vehicle, which is crucial for handling, longevity, and safety.
- Vehicle-specific recommendations: Dealerships carry tires from the manufacturer-recommended brands that are designed to provide the optimal fit, performance, and fuel efficiency for your Toyota.
- Included services: Many dealerships offer additional benefits like road hazard coverage (typically for 2 years on eligible tires) and can perform simultaneous maintenance like brake or suspension checks, saving you a trip.
- Access to many brands: While they can offer specific Toyota-endorsed tires, dealerships also typically stock a wide range of high-quality brands, such as Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Michelin, to fit different needs and budgets.
Cons of buying from a Toyota dealership
- Price: Dealerships can sometimes be more expensive than independent tire shops, though many offer price-matching or run promotions to stay competitive.
- Limited selection of budget options: Dealerships may be less likely to carry budget-friendly, off-brand tires compared to a dedicated tire retailer.
- Potential for upselling: There's a risk the salesperson may try to steer you toward a specific tire that benefits the dealership, so it's wise to do your own research beforehand.
Where else to buy tires
- Independent tire retailers (e.g., Discount Tire): These stores often have competitive pricing and a wide selection of brands, sometimes with better warranty deals, like those offered by Costco.
- Big-box retailers (e.g., Costco): You can often find great deals on tires and a good warranty through warehouse clubs.
- Online retailers: Many people find great deals online, though you will have to factor in the cost and convenience of getting them installed elsewhere.
Recommendation
- Do your research: Compare prices and warranty options from both the dealership and other retailers before you buy.
- Ask about promotions: Inquire about any sales, rebates, or price-match guarantees offered by the dealership.
- Consider the total value: If you need other service work done, a dealership can be more convenient. If not, you may find better value elsewhere.
What suppliers does Toyota use?
QUALITY AWARDS
| Supplier | Location | Commodity |
|---|---|---|
| Aisin Light Metals, LLC. | London, Ky. | Bumper reinforcements |
| American Fine Sinter, Co. Ltd. | Tiffin, Ohio | Valve seats |
| DENSO International America, Inc. | Southfield, Mich. | Multiple commodities |
| DTR Tennessee, Inc. | Midway , Tenn. | Anti-Vibration Rubber |
Do Toyo tires have anything to do with Toyota?
Toyo Tire Corporation (Headquarters: Itami City, Hyogo Prefecture; President & CEO: Takashi Shimizu; hereinafter, “Toyo Tire”) has supported Team Land Cruiser Toyota Auto Body (hereinafter, “TLC”), the rally team of Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.
