This Passenger Tire Brand Gets JD Power's Lowest Customer Satisfaction Score In 2026

Why It Matters

A sub‑par score threatens Dunlop’s OEM placement and Goodyear’s market share, while top performers gain leverage for future contracts. The data guides manufacturers and retailers in product development and marketing strategies.

Key Takeaways

• Dunlop scores 723, lowest among passenger tires
• JD Power surveyed 38,244 owners 2023‑2025 models
• Michelin leads three categories, highest scores
• Hankook lowest in luxury and truck categories
• Study evaluates traction, wear, appearance, ride quality

Pulse Analysis

The JD Power U.S. Original Equipment Tire Customer Satisfaction Study, now in its third decade, remains a benchmark for how new‑car owners evaluate the tires that come factory‑installed. By interviewing over 38,000 owners across four vehicle segments, the study quantifies satisfaction on traction, perceived wear, visual appeal, and ride comfort. Its methodology—capturing feedback at one and two years after purchase—offers a longitudinal view that OEMs and tire makers rely on to gauge real‑world performance beyond laboratory tests.

Dunlop’s 723‑point rating in the passenger‑car category places it at the bottom of the leaderboard, a stark contrast to its parent Goodyear’s broader portfolio. The low score suggests issues either with product quality or mismatched consumer expectations, potentially prompting OEMs to reconsider future tire specifications. Meanwhile, Michelin’s dominance in three categories and Pirelli’s win in the truck/utility segment underscore the competitive advantage of brands that consistently deliver on the four satisfaction pillars. For Goodyear, the result may trigger strategic reviews of Dunlop’s formulation, supply chain, or marketing approach to protect its OEM relationships.

For the broader tire market, the study’s outcomes influence purchasing decisions, warranty negotiations, and brand loyalty programs. Consumers increasingly reference JD Power rankings when selecting replacement tires, driving demand toward higher‑scoring brands. Tire manufacturers can leverage the data to prioritize R&D investments—such as advanced rubber compounds for better wear or tread designs for enhanced traction. As electric and autonomous vehicles reshape driving dynamics, satisfaction metrics will evolve, making continuous monitoring of studies like JD Power’s essential for staying ahead in a rapidly changing automotive ecosystem.