Good/Better/Best
While all tires appear round and black, how much traction they provide in adverse weather, how quietly and comfortably they ride, as well as how long they wear can vary greatly. Every tire’s performance depends on its manufacturer’s design technology, rubber compounding capabilities and production proficiency.
Many automotive service providers offer a choice of Good, Better, and Best tires from which drivers can choose. Good, Better or Best tires are often differentiated by the tire’s tread life, traction and cost.
Good, Entry-Level or Economy – typically featuring lower costs made possible through use of standard raw materials and manufacturing methods. Normally offering 30,000 to 40,000 miles* of tread life, these tires are best suited to drivers with budget constraints and/or limited driving needs.
Better, Mid-Range or Standard – typically available at a moderate cost, these tires feature enhanced raw materials and manufacturing methods. Normally offering 40,000 to 60,000 miles* of tread life, these tires are well suited to drivers needing longer lasting tires or experiencing more challenging driving conditions. While not always moderately priced, O.E. tires tend to be classified in the “Better” category.
Best, Top-Tier or Premium – typically feature more expensive, advanced raw materials and sophisticated manufacturing methods to provide a superior blend of traction and wear. Normally offering 60,000 to 80,000 miles* of tread life, their initial cost is higher than lower-quality tires, but they save money in the long run by lasting longer than lesser tires.
Since many O.E. tires will provide three to four years of service, drivers need to consider is how they plan to use their vehicle and how long they plan to keep it to determine which tire is most appropriate for them.
NOTE: Routine tire and vehicle maintenance is important to attain every tire’s traction and treadwear potential. The contribution of maintaining correct cold tire inflation pressures, performing routine tire rotations and periodic vehicle alignments contribute to achieve a tire’s potential treadlife.
*Tread wear of most Ultra-High Performance tires is about 1/3 of typical passenger, and light truck tires.
Discount/America’s Tire Good, Better, Best Description
“Good” tires have simpler designs with minimal features. Rubber compounds and other materials are more basic.
“Better” tires are often built with newer technologies and components than “Good” tires. Their rubber compounds and designs are more advanced. These contribute to longer lasting, more comfortable and better performing tires than those in the “Good” category
“Best” tires are built to the highest standards using the most current state-of-the-art equipment. Their advanced tread designs, construction and rubber compounds are designed to deliver the highest level of performance.
UTQGS Ratings
Treadwear – Longevity – 30,000 – 80,000
Traction AA, A, B, C Traction grades are indicate a tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement
Durability – A, B, C Temperature grades indicate a tire’s ability to resist heat.
Price –
