When it comes to vehicle maintenance, your tires are among the most critical components. They directly impact safety, fuel efficiency, and overall driving performance. With advancements in tire technology, major brands continuously compete to deliver superior durability, traction, and eco-friendly solutions. However, for many consumers, purchasing tires isn’t just about performance—it’s also about supporting local economies and American manufacturing.
Why Buying American-Made Tires Matters
In an era of globalization, many well-known “American” brands outsource production overseas. While this can reduce costs, it also means fewer jobs stay within the U.S. By choosing tires manufactured domestically, you contribute to:
✅ Boosting Local Economies – Supporting American workers and businesses.
✅ Higher Quality Standards – U.S. factories often adhere to stricter safety and environmental regulations.
✅ Reduced Carbon Footprint – Locally made tires require less transportation, lowering emissions.
But how can you be sure your tires are truly American-made? Here’s how to verify their origin.
How to Check Where Your Tires Were Manufactured
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all tire manufacturers to stamp a unique code indicating the production facility. Here’s how to decode it:
- Locate the DOT Code – Found on the tire’s sidewall, it starts with “DOT” followed by a series of letters/numbers.
- Identify the Plant Code – The first two characters after “DOT” reveal the manufacturing location.
- Verify the Origin – Use the DOT’s Manufacturer Information Database (vPIC) to look up the plant.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the NHTSA vPIC website.
- Under “Manufacturer Information Database,” click vPIC MID.
- Check the box for “Equipment Plants (Tires, Brake Hoses, Retread and Glazing).”
- Select “Tires” from the dropdown menu.
- Enter the DOT code (e.g., “CH” for Pirelli’s Hanford, CA plant).
- Click “Search” to see the factory location.
Alternatively, we’ve compiled a list of major brands and their U.S. manufacturing codes for quick reference.
Top American-Made Tire Brands & Their U.S. Plants
1. Goodyear
- Founded: 1898 in Akron, Ohio
- U.S. Plants: Ohio (MB), Oklahoma (M6), Virginia (MC), Alabama (MD), North Carolina (MM, PJ), Kansas (MJ), Illinois (MN), Texas (MP, PL), Tennessee (MK)
- Why Choose Goodyear? A legacy brand with a mix of budget and premium options. While some production occurs overseas, many tires are still made in America.
2. Cooper Tires (Now Part of Goodyear)
- Founded: 1914 in Findlay, Ohio
- U.S. Plants: Ohio (UP), Georgia (3D), Mississippi (U9), Arkansas (UT)
- Why Choose Cooper? Known for affordable, high-mileage tires. Subsidiaries like Mastercraft and Mickey Thompson also produce U.S.-made tires.
3. TreadWright (100% American-Made & Eco-Friendly)
- Based: Houston, Texas
- Why Choose TreadWright?
- Only fully U.S.-made brand on this list.
- Specializes in retreaded tires, reducing waste.
- Uses recycled materials and 70% less oil than conventional tire production.
- Offers a 50,000-mile warranty on many models.
Foreign-Owned Brands with U.S. Factories
Many international tire companies operate American plants, providing jobs while maintaining global quality standards.
| Brand | Origin | U.S. Plant Locations (DOT Codes) |
|---|---|---|
| Continental | Germany | IL (6B, A3), OH (A9), KY (AD), NC (AC), SC (VY) |
| Pirelli | Italy | CA (CH), TN (CK), GA (JR) |
| Michelin | France | SC (4M, M3, B6, B9), AL (B7) |
| Yokohama | Japan | VA (CC) |
| Firestone | Japan (Bridgestone) | IA, SC, NC, TN |
Pro Tip: The AFL-CIO Union-Made in America list includes additional brands like Dunlop, Goodrich, and Kelly Springfield that produce union-made tires in the U.S.
Final Tips for Buying American-Made Tires
🔹 Ask Your Retailer – Some shops specialize in U.S.-made tires.
🔹 Check DOT Codes – Always verify before purchasing.
🔹 Support Small Businesses – Local tire shops often carry American brands.
🔹 Consider Retreads – Eco-friendly options like TreadWright reduce waste.
By choosing American-made tires, you invest in local jobs, higher quality, and sustainability. Next time you need new tires, check the DOT code—your purchase can make a difference!
