The Best Tesla Tires You Can Buy

S.D. Grady
Dec 30, 2020

Is it time to replace the tires on your Tesla Model 3? Even though you can just take it back to Tesla, tires are one item that you can buy from any reputable tire supplier. Do some research for the best tires for your performance plug-in electric vehicle.

What are the best tires for a Tesla?

Tesla Logo

You could just click and pick up exact replacement tires for your Tesla, or you could take a look at some of the most popular options. Do you drive only on dry pavement, or do you expect to power through some blizzards?

Best Tires for the Tesla Model 3 and the Model S

Both sedans produced by Tesla roll off the factory floor with the same set of tires mounted to their aerodynamically sculpted wheels. Remember, wheels are one of the most popular items to upgrade, so stock sizes may not apply even to a 1-year-old ride. Always check the size of your current tires before ordering a new set. The radius of the tire, the R number, must match the size of your wheels.

Summer Performance Tires: $226.98 Each

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 235/45 ZR18 98Y XL Acoustics is one of two tires that are included as stock for the Tesla Model 3. Their softer tread allows them to deliver superior traction on dry roads, but do not fare well when temperatures are near freezing.

An asymmetrical design improves aerodynamics but requires mounting face-out every time. If you do stick with the summer tires, expect to replace them every 20,000 miles or sooner if you love to really put your ride to the test.

All-season Performance Tires: $198.99 Each

A favorite option for buyers of a new Tesla is the Michelin Pilot Sport All-Season 4 tire. Its composition maintains much of the warm-weather traction for superior performance but also delivers over frozen pavement. These tires come with a 45,000-mile warranty

Winter Tires: $358.40

Car Tire in Snow Closeup

If you prefer to run summer performance tires and live in northern regions, you may need a set of winter tires. The Pirelli Winter SottoZero 3 delivers superior traction over slush and snow while maintaining that athletic performance you love on clear freezing days. They come with no tread life warranty, and users find that they need to replace them every season.

Best Tires for the Tesla Model X

The Model X is the Tesla answer to the three-row SUV. As such, the stock tires offer improved traction and sidewall stability since you can expect to be chauffeuring up to seven people inside. Note that you may have different size front and rear wheels, which can negatively impact the life span of any tire.

All-season Grand Touring: $293.98

The Michelin Primacy MXM 4 is designed to reduce road noise and improve ride quality when rolling down the highway. Do not expect to attack tight turns, but instead enjoy durability, excellent traction, and a warranty of up to 45,000 miles. Users love how quiet they are, but others note that they could be better for winter applications.

Snow Tires: $344.89 Each

If you are taking the family up the mountain, look at the Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV tire. Developed for ice and heavy snow, its studless design delivers superior traction and control in extreme winter conditions. Users love the performance in the winter, but drivers should be aware that braking on dry pavement requires more room compared to all-season or summer tires.

Budget-Friendly All-season: $196.10

Meeting all the specs of the Michelin Primacy, the Pirelli Scorpion Zero All-Season is rated at TireRack.com as the top-recommended tire for Sport Truck applications by its users. Since your Model X has different sizes for front and back, expect the tires to last up to 25,000 miles, a strong argument for opting for a lower-priced tire.

Best Tires for the Tesla Model Y

Blue 2020 Tesla Model Y In Motion

The Model Y blends the comfort of sedan-style vehicles with the function of a mid-size SUV. First appearing like a compact hatchback, its wide stance demands the use of tires developed for a performance SUV.

Summer Tires: $248.11

If you are replacing like for like, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is what came with your new Model Y. These are designed for summer conditions and prefer dry streets. Once temperatures drop below 40 degrees F, the compound becomes hard and will not provide good stopping power. Experience excellent grip on exit ramps and accelerate with confidence. They come with a 20,000-mile warranty.

Touring All-season: $316.99

The Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack minimizes road noise during that long commute using a technologically advanced design inside and out. The asymmetrical tread wear reduces drag while channeling away water on wet roads.

Every inch of the compound is molded to absorb vibration, leaving you to thoroughly enjoy your premium surround sound system. They perform well in most weather conditions and can last up to 80,000 miles before requiring replacement.

Wallet-friendly All-season: $204.74

If you are optimizing your budget, consider the Vredestein Quatrac Pro tire. Their warranty is rated for up to 50,000 miles, and owners have taken their smaller SUV over snow-covered roads and rutted graveled paths with confidence. They meet all the profile requirements for your Model Y without breaking the bank. Expect a little more road noise, good stopping distance, and all the traction required on your daily drive.

People Also Ask About Their Tesla Tires

Does my Tesla come with a spare tire?

No. Owners of the Model S report that they can fit a spare in the front trunk unless the car comes with all-wheel drive. Tesla provides four years of roadside assistance for their new owners. Otherwise, look into fix-a-flat or your own roadside assistance contract to help you get your car repaired.

What is the recommended tire pressure for my Tesla?

Auto Mechanic Checking Tire Pressure

Open your driver’s side door and look for a sticker on the C-pillar. The recommended tire pressure for your tires is included on the sticker. Tire pressure recommendations can change for summer, touring, or winter tires.

How do I reset the tire pressure monitor on a Tesla?

The TPMS system in the Tesla will reset itself. Once you have added enough air to the low tire and driven the car for at least 10 minutes over 15 mph, the tire pressure warning light should go out. If the pressures are correct in your tires and the light remains, bring it to an authorized Tesla service center for troubleshooting.

avatar S.D. Grady
Sonya is a vastly experienced journalist who loves to share her passion for everything automotive. You can usually find her at the track covering NASCAR, taking a test drive, or drooling over the latest models at the local auto show.
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