Despite the popularity of SUVs, many drivers don’t realize that these vehicles are more expensive to maintain than other cars. It takes more effort to stop or steer an SUV due to its heavier size. This means your SUV’s brake rotors and pads need to be inspected more frequently.
Likewise, all that weight can take a toll on your SUV’s tires. However, SUV tire replacements are quite expensive. Here are some reasons why it’s so hard to find affordable SUV tires right now.
1. Better variety of sizes
According to SUV Radar, the average set of SUV tires can cost up to $400 for a base set. Prices for performance tires range from $800 to $1200. All of these tires can be found in several different sizes and different attributes to their high prices. Radar SUV says that the tires that provide the most ground clearance are usually the most popular.
2. Longer service life
Because SUV tires are built from more durable materials, they will last as long as possible with proper maintenance and safe driving practices. Automatic tells us that even a basic set of SUV tires will last at least 50,000 miles.
Of course, if you frequently take your SUV off-road, you can still expect the tires to wear faster. It’s probably time for a replacement if you can see visible cracks in the sidewalls or lower tread.
3. Greater demand in the SUV segment
More people buying SUVs leads to more demand for SUV tires and accessories. Third-row SUV tires could be the most expensive, as these models currently account for 70% of sales in the segment.
Midsize SUVs are also popular choices, totaling around 10% of segment sales. Experts predict those percentages will likely rise once the global chip shortage situation improves.
However, Radar SUV also tells us that the most expensive price doesn’t always mean you’ll get the best tires. $80 to $150 per tire is considered average for all-season tires, and replacing all four typically costs $637.
4. Exceptional performance in hazardous conditions
High-performance SUV tires are more expensive to produce, but they are also highly immune to debris like sharp stones. They can also climb hills and travel on trails at high speeds with no negative effects on the suspension.
Standard and high-performance SUV tires work in harmony with automatic steering systems, allowing for better driving control. SUV tires also suppress road noise at highway speeds.
5. Security features
SUV tires are inherently safer than conventional tires because they provide higher ground clearance. All passengers will experience a smoother ride while the driver enjoys better visibility.
The car itself also gains protection because objects lower to the ground will not be able to easily scrape the underside of the vehicle. SUV tires also make full contact with your car’s brakes, which means better stopping power.
6. Quality of the materials used
The SUV tire treads are enhanced with nylon and steel, and the whole tire has stronger rubber than normal tires. These tires also receive further chemical treatments during the manufacturing process to keep them as rigid as possible. Those extra materials and labor initially result in a higher price, but they won’t need as much maintenance.
7. Premium Brand Policies
Brands like Michelin and Goodyear have an excellent reputation for providing durable tires, but they can be quite expensive. Tires offered by these brands usually come with additional warranty coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance services. Additional insurance or other performance-enhancing options can also be purchased directly from the tire manufacturer.
If you’re concerned about reliability, Consumer Reports tests tires annually. SUV tires are already expensive enough, so make sure you’re getting the best for your money.