Depending on how you measure “winning.” If you compare Bridgestone Tires, Michelin Tires, Continental Tires, Pirelli Tires, and Goodyear Tires, Bridgestone is a leader in the tire manufacturing industry. This corporation maintains factories in twenty-four different nations.
In 1988, Bridgestone paid $2.6 billion for Firestone and renamed the combined company Bridgestone Americas, with its headquarters in the United States.
- The company’s tires are more expensive than average, but they deliver above-average performance.
- Bridgestone manufactures a wide selection of tires for a wide range of uses, each with its own unique set of benefits.
- In our most recent tire analysis, Bridgestone performed at a 4.0/5.0.
The company now makes tires for nearly every use. Over 8,500 trusted installers are listed. Here are a few of the best options available in the most common types of consumer tires.
- Best Overall: Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS+
- Best All-Season Tire: Bridgestone Turanza QuietTrack
- Best All-Terrain Tire: Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3
- Best Summer Tire: Bridgestone Potenza Sport
- Best Winter Tire: Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
- Best Touring Tire: Bridgestone Turanza Serenity Plus
- Best Fuel-Efficient Tire: Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 Plus
- Best Durable Tire: Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus
Although Bridgestone is widely recognized as a leading tire manufacturer, our team of researchers was curious as to whether or not the company’s products actually live up to the hype. In this Bridgestone Tires review, we will examine the company in its entirety, analyzing its standing in the industry, best-selling products, pricing, durability, and more. The best tires on the market will be used as a comparison to see how it fares.
Purchasing a new set of tires is often a significant financial commitment. Compare different makes and models of tires to get the best value for your money. Due to the specialized nature of tires, finding a set that meets your needs and your budget is possible with some online research.
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About Bridgestone Tires
Bridgestone, one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world, was founded in Fukuoka, Japan, in 1931. Bridgestone dominates the global tire market, outselling competitors such as Michelin and Goodyear, according to a 2019 Statista tire revenue study.
The tire brands Dayton, Fuzion, and Firestone are all subsidiaries of Bridgestone, a conglomerate that also manufactures automobiles and other automotive parts. When Bridgestone purchased Firestone in 1988, it immediately became one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world. Both of these tire manufacturers are highly regarded by professionals and by consumers alike.
The DriveGuard line of run-flat tires from Bridgestone has been an industry leader. These all-season variants can keep on going for up to 50 miles after a flat, giving you plenty of time to pull over to the side of the road and look for a tire repair shop. They also come with a tread life warranty for 65,000 miles.
Bridgestone produces a wide variety of tire models, many of which are top picks in their respective categories. The Blizzak WS80 from Bridgestone is a premium winter tire option. The Dueler line of all-terrain tires from this manufacturer is also highly regarded.
BRIDGESTONE TIRE PRICE
Both Bridgestone and Michelin make high-priced tires. This hefty price tag is justified, however, by Bridgestone’s superior rubber and stringent quality assurance measures.
Review the prices of the most purchased Bridgestone tires on Tire Rack as follows:
- Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza: $270.47 (P285/45R22)
- Blizzak WS90: $161.48 (235/65R16)
- Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS: $136.99 (215/55R17)
- Bridgestone DriveGuard: $127.99 (205/65RF16)
Given the high cost of Bridgestone products, we expected longer coverage periods. In some cases, the cost of a more expensive tire can be justified if it has a longer useful life.
TIRE Industry Ratings
Tires manufactured by Bridgestone are graded according to the standards established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system assigns letter grades to tires based on their treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance,
An explanation of the UTQG grading system:
Treadwear
This rating predicts how long your tires will last. Tires are compared to a control tire with a rating of 100 to determine treadwear. A tire with a treadwear rating of 500 has treads that last five times as long as the standard tire. SaferCar.gov reports that the treadwear rating of most passenger tires is between 300 and 500.
Traction
This score is based on how well your tires “grip” wet roads and how they perform in various situations, such as cornering. There is an AA, A, B, and C grade for traction. An A grade is typical for reliable daily-use passenger tires.
Temperature
Tires’ ability to withstand high temperatures is measured on a scale from A to C in this category. Tires have varying temperature requirements depending on their intended use. In contrast to all-season tires, high-performance tires are designed for much faster speeds and, thus, have higher temperature ratings.
It’s worth noting that UTQG tests are not supervised by the NHTSA. Tire testing and reporting are the responsibility of the manufacturer or an independent company contracted by the brand.
Review and UTQG Evaluations of Bridgestone Tires
Below, we’ve listed a few top-rated Bridgestone tire models and their treadwear, traction, and temperature scores using data from NHTSA.gov.
| Bridgestone Tire | Treadwear Rating | Temperature | Traction | TiresReviewed Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgestone DUELER H/L ALENZA PLUS | 800 | A | A | ★★★★★ |
| Bridgestone DRIVEGUARD Plus | 640 | A | A | ★★★★ |
| Bridgestone POTENZA RE980AS | 500 | A | AA | ★★★★ |
| Bridgestone TURANZA LS-T | 700 | B | A | ★★★★ |
| Bridgestone DRIVEGUARD Plus | 640 | A | A | ★★★★ |
| Bridgestone ECOPIA EP150 | 880 | A | A | ★★★★★ |
| Bridgestone TURANZA LS-Z | 320 | A | AA | ★★★★ |
If you are curious, you can find your current tires’ UTQG ratings printed on the tires’ sidewalls.
Popular BRIDGESTONE TIRES
In terms of high-quality tires, Bridgestone has a wide selection to choose from. Although the company’s most popular models may not be the best in any given category, they are still held in high regard. Our top pick for winter tires, the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80, ranked second overall.
Some of Bridgestone’s best-selling tires include the following:
Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza
A tire with a symmetrical, double-layered tread pattern made for SUVs and light trucks. These tires change the game for any vehicle they are fitted on. Not only do they provide exceptional handling and grip in wet or dry conditions, but they also offer an incredibly smooth and comfortable ride. Advanced technology ensures excellent fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance in the Dueler H/L Alenza. And if you’re looking to take your adventures off-road, these tires can handle it all thanks to their durable construction and rugged design. So whether you’re cruising down the highway or exploring new terrain, the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza is definitely a tire worth considering!
Bridgestone Blizzak WS80
An old and reliable, this studless winter tire has zig-zag sipes to increase traction and rubber flexibility. Consider these amazing winter tires that will make your driving experience during snowy and icy conditions a breeze. Patented multi-cell technology ensures your safety on slippery surfaces by providing these tires with maximum grip. Plus, they have a unique tread pattern that helps to channel away water and slush for enhanced traction. Bridgestone’s reputation for quality and reliability means you can trust that their tires will be durable enough to last through multiple winters. Don’t let bad weather slow you down – invest in a set of Bridgestone Blizzak WS80s today and enjoy confident driving all season long!
Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS
A high-contact, ultra-high-performance tire featuring an asymmetric tread, a stiff sidewall, full-depth sipes, and lateral slots. The Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS is an all-season tire that offers exceptional performance in various weather conditions. The design of the car provides drivers with superb handling and traction on both wet and dry roads, making it perfect for those who love to hit the road no matter what the weather forecast says. What I love most about this tire is its innovative tread pattern that helps reduce road noise while enhancing overall stability. In addition, the Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS has a specially formulated rubber compound that enhances grip on slippery surfaces like snow or ice. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable all-season tire that can handle any challenge thrown at it, then look no further than the exceptional Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS!
Bridgestone DriveGuard
Bridgestone’s latest run-flat technology allows this all-season grand touring tire to be driven on for up to 50 miles after a puncture. These tires are absolute game-changers in the world of driving. With their innovative design and cutting-edge technology, you can now enjoy a completely stress-free ride no matter where you go. Bridgestone DriveGuard tires are designed to give you peace of mind while driving on any road surface. Specialized materials provide exceptional traction and handling even in wet or slippery conditions, because they are made with them. These incredible tires from Bridgestone will amaze you with how smooth and comfortable your ride becomes once you switch to them. So why wait any longer? Upgrade your vehicle with the best quality tire brand out there – Bridgestone DriveGuard – and experience the difference today!
The industry has approved these tires for years, and they have received numerous 4.0-star ratings or higher from Tire Rack customers. According to an expert’s review, Bridgestone tires consistently perform well in impartial industry tests.
Review and Bridgestone Tires Buying Guide
Bridgestone has a well-earned reputation for quality tires, but no matter how good a tire is, it won’t give you the safety and performance you need if it isn’t the right one. Understanding the differences between types of tires as well as your own driving habits and preferences is an important part of choosing the right tire.
Bridgestone Tires Factors To Consider
In order to ensure you get the right tires for your vehicle, there are several factors to weigh, including:
- Noise rating: Quieter tires can make a significant difference in the amount of noise that people inside the cabin hear because they are designed to be quieter on the road than others.
- Mileage rating: The manufacturer typically lists the expected number of miles that a tire can be driven before needing to be replaced.
- Speed: Tire manufacturers typically print a maximum recommended speed on the sidewall of each tire. People who enjoy driving sports cars and have a need for speed should give this factor a particular amount of attention.
- Tread pattern: The majority of tire tread patterns can be classified as belonging to one of several primary groups, including diagonal, symmetrical, asymmetrical, or a combination of these three types of patterns.
- Weather rating: Some tires are designed to perform well in a variety of conditions, while other tires are optimized for one or two tasks in particular. Summer tires perform poorly in snow or ice conditions because their design does not allow them to grip well in these conditions. When compared to regular road tires, off-road tires may be better able to handle rough terrain, but they have a lower fuel efficiency.
- Tire design: There are three primary methods for constructing tires radial, bias-ply, and bias-belted. While bias-built tires are typically less expensive, radial tires offer greater longevity.
Bridgestone Tires Sizes and Review: How to Read Them
There is a standard format that tire manufacturers follow when describing tire sizes. Due to the multiple dimensions necessary for a snug tire fit, this layout contains a few components.
The common tire size P225/65R17 will be used to illustrate the meanings of each component:
- P: The first letter indicates the class of vehicle that can safely use the tire. The letter “P” on our sample tire designates that it is designed for use on a passenger vehicle.
- 225: The first digit of the series denotes the tire’s width in millimeters. So, the width of the tire we’re using as an example is 225 millimeters.
- 65: The second number after the slash gives an approximate percentage representation of the tire’s height-to-width ratio. The tire in our example has a height that is 65% of its width.
- R: The second letter of the series denotes the tire construction. In this case, the “R” indicates that the tire is radial.
- 17: The last digit of the series indicates the wheel size in inches; a 17-inch rim, in this case, requires a 17-inch tire.
Warranty on Bridgestone Tires
Tires from Bridgestone typically come with a 50,000-mile warranty. However, the tread life warranties on some of its all-season and touring models are up to 65,000 miles. In contrast, the warranties offered by some other well-known brands cover 70,000 miles or more.
For as long as the tire has at least 2/32 inches of tread remaining, Bridgestone will replace it free of charge if it fails due to faulty materials or workmanship.
REVIEWS OF BRIDGESTONE TIRES Users
Experts and consumers alike have consistently given Bridgestone tires high marks. When compared to other tire manufacturers, Bridgestone’s 712 out of a possible 1,000 score in the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Original Equipment Tire Customer Satisfaction StudySM for passenger tires was right around the middle. The company did marginally worse than the industry average of 704 points for truck and utility tires, scoring 700.
The review of Tire Rack users about Bridgestone tires is as follows:
Positive Bridgestone Tire Reviews
“I live in the desert area of southern California so I don’t typically have to drive in wet or inclement conditions but, When I drive over to the coast the route I take is filled with switchbacks and curves. These [Bridgestone Potenza RE980AS] tires make that trip a whole lot of fun. Although I have a midsize SUV designed for comfort, I will always take the roadster when possible.“
– via Tire Rack
“Low mileage due to winter only use and work from home status the past couple of years. Extremely pleased with these tires, very “grippy” and sure footed. Wife has 100% confidence with her [Bridgestone Blizzak WS90] tires on. Would buy again and would recommend wholeheartedly . She has AWD but really a good set of Blizzaks is all you need in most conditions. Her peace of mind while driving is worth every penny.”
– via Tire Rack
Negative Bridgestone Tire Reviews
“I had these [Bridgestone Turanza EL440] as the stock tire when I purchased my vehicle. Initially, they weren’t too bad and always had a decent ride quality. The traction on these is horrible though, especially on wet and snowy roads. The tires would spin even when the road was just wet, whenever I accelerated moderately from a stop. Snow traction is absolutely horrible as well. They are unsafe, to be honest. The road noise is pretty bad as well, especially on concrete. I just replaced these with Goodyear Assurance MaxLife XL’s and it is a night and day difference in the dry so far. Road noise is MUCH better. Ride quality seems fairly similar so far, but that was the only saving grace with the Turanza’s. Do not purchase the Turanza’s.”
– via Tire Rack
“I replaced the OEM BGG Rugged Trail with these tires. These [Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza] were the worst tires I ever owned. From day one, they caused vibration, did not handle well, and could not be balanced. For the price and going by the raving reviews, I thought I was buying a very good tire. These tires are terrible in the snow and they wear pretty poorly also. I will never buy another Bridgestone product.“
– via Tire Rack
The Final Words About Bridgestone Tires Review
Our overall rating for Bridgestone is 4.0 stars out of 5. We appreciate the variety of high-quality tires the company offers for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Bridgestone’s innovative run-flat technology, fuel-efficient Ecopia tires, and focus on quiet operation all contribute to the brand’s success.
However, compared to Bridgestone’s review, Bridgestone tires are more expensive. The company backs the majority of its tire models with standard tread life guarantees.
Recommended Alternatives to Bridgestone Tires
It’s smart to look around before committing to a new set of tires. Although Bridgestone makes quality tires, you may want to look into other brands as well. Cooper offers more reasonably priced models that compete with Michelin’s pricey tires.
Michelin: Best Tires Overall
We highly recommend Michelin tires if you’re in the market for new ones. The company offers a wide selection of models, including high-quality all-season tires backed by generous tread life guarantees. Many motorists argue that the extra money spent on pricier cars is well spent.
Buy Michelin tires from TireRack.com.
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Cooper: Most Affordable
We suggest Cooper Tires if you’re on a tight budget. The business’s main focus is on replacement tires, and it provides those services at competitive prices without compromising on quality. The tires are more cost-effective in the long run because they come with warranties covering tread wear for up to 80,000 miles.
Shop for Cooper tires on TireRack.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bridgestone Tires
If you value quality above all else, Bridgestone tires could be worth the extra money. The company’s tires are more expensive than those of many of its rivals, but they also have a stellar reputation.
According to Bridgestone tires review, like many other premium tire brands, are often priced higher compared to some budget or entry-level tire options. Several factors contribute to the relatively higher cost of Bridgestone tires:
1 – Research and Development: Bridgestone invests significantly in research and development to engineer and innovate their tire technologies. Advanced research, testing facilities, and materials development contribute to the performance, safety, and durability of their tires. The company reflects the costs associated with its R&D efforts in the pricing of its tires.
2 – Quality and Performance: Bridgestone has built a reputation for producing high-quality tires that offer excellent performance, handling, and traction in various driving conditions. These tires often incorporate advanced features, such as innovative tread patterns, specialized rubber compounds, and advanced construction techniques, which enhance their performance characteristics. The higher quality and performance standards contribute to the higher price of Bridgestone tires.
3 – Materials and Manufacturing: Bridgestone utilizes high-quality materials and employs advanced manufacturing processes to produce its tires. These materials and processes help ensure consistent quality, durability, and performance, but they also contribute to the higher cost of production.
4 – Brand Reputation: Bridgestone is a well-known and respected tire brand with a long history in the industry. The brand’s reputation for quality, performance, and safety can influence the pricing of its tires. Customers may be willing to pay a premium for the assurance and peace of mind associated with a reputable brand.
5 – Warranty and Support: Bridgestone typically provides comprehensive warranties and support for their tires, including mileage warranties and customer assistance programs. The overall value of their tires is contributed to by these additional services and support, but they can also be reflected in the pricing.
It’s worth noting that tire prices can vary depending on the specific model, tire size, and market conditions. Bridgestone tires are more expensive than some budget options. They often offer enhanced performance, durability, and safety features that can justify the higher cost for many drivers. Ultimately, the choice of tires should consider factors such as driving needs, preferences, and budget.
Bridgestone manufactures its own tires. The Japanese headquarters factory makes most of the Bridgestone tires. The company initially only made tires in the United States, but after a few years, it expanded to other countries like Belgium, Australia, Brazil, China, etc.
Michelin does not produce Bridgestone tires. Bridgestone is unrelated to Michelin and makes its own tires.
In the most recent comparison between tire brands that we conducted, Bridgestone did not perform better than Michelin. Overall, Michelin and Goodyear tied for the highest score in the study, and Bridgestone came in second place. Bridgestone scored slightly lower than Michelin.
Tire rotation is an essential maintenance procedure that involves moving the tires from one position to another on a vehicle. Rotating all tires promotes even wear, extending their lifetime and enhancing their performance. The following factors determine how frequently tires should be rotated: the vehicle type, the tire type, the driving conditions, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keeping up with tire maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your vehicle. Tires should be rotated every 5,000-7,500 miles, generally speaking. However, this can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and even climate.
Additionally, some tire manufacturers may have their own guidelines regarding rotation intervals. To get the best results, always follow the recommendations provided by your vehicle manufacturer and tire manufacturer. They may suggest rotating the tires at different mileage intervals or at specific times.
You should rotate your tires regularly to ensure even tread wear, maximize traction, and improve handling and safety. Rotating your tires as part of your routine vehicle maintenance will ensure they wear evenly and last longer.
The angles of your vehicle’s tires are not properly adjusted according to the manufacturer’s specifications when its tire alignment is off. This misalignment can lead to various issues, and there are several signs that can indicate a bad tire alignment. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
1 – Uneven or rapid tire wear: One of the most noticeable signs is uneven wear on your tires. If you notice that the tread is wearing out more quickly on one side of the tire compared to the other, it could indicate poor alignment.
2 – Vehicle pulling to one side: When driving on a straight, level road, if you feel your vehicle constantly pulling or drifting to one side without any input from you, it may be a sign of alignment problems. Keep in mind that other factors like tire pressure or uneven tire wear can also cause pulling, so it’s important to rule out those possibilities.
3 – Steering wheel off-center: A misaligned steering wheel will not be centered when driving straight. When your vehicle is properly aligned, the emblem on the steering wheel levels or comes close to being level.
4 – Vibrations in the steering wheel: Misaligned tires can cause vibrations in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds. These vibrations may feel like a slight wobble or shake, indicating that the tires are not rolling smoothly and evenly.
5 – Increased fuel consumption: Poor tire alignment can also lead to increased rolling resistance, which means your vehicle’s engine has to work harder to move the car forward. This extra effort can result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption.
If you observe any of these signs, it’s important to have your vehicle’s alignment checked and corrected by a professional. Proper tire alignment not only ensures optimal handling and tire performance but also contributes to overall safety on the road.
The lifespan of Bridgestone tires can vary depending on several factors, including the specific tire model, driving conditions, maintenance practices, and individual driving habits. Bridgestone tires are designed to provide a mileage warranty ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 miles (64,000 to 128,000 kilometers), on average, depending on the tire model and type.
Various factors such as [list of factors] influence the actual lifespan of tires:
1- Driving habits: Aggressive driving, excessive braking, and accelerating quickly can accelerate tire wear and reduce their lifespan.
2 – Road conditions: Rough roads, potholes, and debris can impact the life of your tires. If you frequently drive on poorly maintained roads or encounter harsh driving conditions, it can contribute to premature tire wear.
3 – Maintenance: According to this review, proper tire maintenance, including regular tire rotations, wheel alignments, and maintaining the recommended tire pressure, can help extend the lifespan of your Bridgestone tires.
4 – Tire type and treadwear rating: Bridgestone offers a wide range of tire models designed for different purposes, such as performance, all-season, or winter tires. Each model has its own treadwear rating, which indicates the expected lifespan of the tire. Higher treadwear ratings generally indicate longer-lasting tires.
5 – Climate: Extreme temperatures and weather conditions can affect tire performance and lifespan. For example, excessive heat can cause the rubber to degrade faster, while extreme cold can make tires more susceptible to cracking.
It’s important to consult the specific warranty and recommendations provided by Bridgestone for the particular tire model you have or plan to purchase. Following the review of the manufacturer’s guidelines and performing regular tire maintenance can help maximize the lifespan of your Bridgestone tires.
OUR Tire Review Process
The research team provides the most accurate, comprehensive, and unbiased information possible to help people make educated decisions about the tires they buy. Our reviews are consistent and comparable because we all use the same criteria.
- Industry Reputation: Ratings from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other industry watchdogs, as well as the company’s longevity. The determination of each business’s overall trustworthiness took into account other factors.
- Tire Variety: Our team took into account every tire model offered by each manufacturer, awarding bonus points to those that carried a wider variety of tires.
- Affordability: When shopping for tires, it’s important to keep your budget in mind. We compared the price range of each firm’s products to those of its rivals to establish an overall value judgment.
- Customer Satisfaction: Our team combed the web for customer comments to gauge how content people are with the company. We looked at both reviewer ratings and for any repeated themes of discontent or acclaim.