Factory tires, also called OEM tires, often do not last as long as replacement tires for several reasons related to design priorities, cost, and specifications set by automakers. Automakers prioritize different characteristics than longevity when selecting OEM tires, focusing on low rolling resistance to improve fuel economy ratings, low noise and comfort for test drives, soft compound for better ride and handling for new car impression, and low cost to keep vehicle price competitive. OEM tires often have shallower tread depth than retail versions of same model, for example 9/32 inch instead of 11/32 inch, to reduce weight and rolling resistance, which reduces tread life. They may use softer rubber compounds that provide better grip and comfort but wear faster. Automakers may specify custom OEM versions of popular tire models that look same as retail but have different construction optimized for fuel economy rather than mileage warranty, often without treadwear warranty. Additionally, factory tires may sit on lot for months before sale, aging slightly. Replacement tires bought aftermarket often have deeper tread, harder compounds, and include treadwear warranties of 60,000 miles or more, focusing on longevity. So factory tires prioritize fuel economy, comfort, and cost over long tread life, causing them to wear faster than aftermarket replacements.
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