Best Tesla Model Y Tires
After the incredible success of the Model 3, the Model Y comes to offer that crossover package everyone wants with the electric battery technology that made Tesla what it is today.
If your Model Y tires are looking a little worn, we’ve compiled a list of the very best tires for you to choose from no matter what your driving style, priorities or price range.
Of note, we’d offered up a few truly high performance options that will definitely not disappoint – although they are definitely expensive. Plus we have some more affordable options and even some very affordable options.
And if you’re shopping for Tesla Model Y winter tires, we’ve also got that covered.
Tesla Model Y Tire Sizes
Below is a list of each Tesla Model Y trim level as well as the different tires sizes available from the factory for each.
- Long Range 255/45/19 or 255/40/20
- Performance 255/35/21 (front) 275/35/21 (rear)
- Standard 255/45/19 or 255/40/20
Best Tire for Tesla Model Y
Michelin Pilot Sport AS 3 Plus
If you want the best tire, go for a Michelin. Ninety-nine times out of 100 you won’t be wrong. And that’s what we’re recommending you go for here with the Pilot Sport AS 3 Plus.
The silica-infused tread uses more silica than you’ll normally find, with a custom compound to deliver grip in wet that’s almost as good as it is in dry. And dry grip really is impressive with excellent turn in, overall grip and linear responsiveness.
Even cold weather performance is good, which is surprising for such an aggressive tire. In fact, the AS 3 Plus model improved winter grip over the older AS 3 by 28 percent.
And perhaps best of all this level of performance will stick with you for years. Michelin engineered the tire with its Variable Control Contact Patch 3.0 design that more evenly distributes road forces on the tire so it wears more evenly. As a result, they back it with a 45,000 mile warranty.
A premium tire, it’s not even that expensive for what you’re getting.
Best Summer High Performance Tire for Tesla Model Y
Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
Again, the Michelin comes out on top here. If you’re looking for maximum grip and don’t need all-weather performance, the Pilot Spot 4S delivers. This tire is made for sports car and supercars and never disappoints.
One look at the tread compound says it all. There are massively wide center tread sections for a huge contact patch. Extra wide shoulder tread blocks butt up against one of the center tread ribs making for an absolutely enormous amount of tread that’s touching the road during cornering, delivering world-class grip and handling control.
Beyond that, the interior construction is made from light weight materials to reduce unsprung weight on your vehicle, while Michelin employs its usual technologies to better distribute road forces on the tire allowing for a 30,000 mile warranty.
More than just amazing performance we also love the rim protectors, with the sidewall that comes out wider than the wheel, as well as Michelin’s “velvet sidewall” design that just helps set this tire apart aesthetically.
It’s expensive, yes, but the best is really is worth paying for.
Best Budget Tire for Tesla Model Y
Toyo Proxes Sport AS
With the Proxes Sport AS, Toyo offers an ultra high performance option for those who need year round traction. Making use of an extra sticky rubber compound, the silica-infused tread delivers in the wet as well.
Priced roughly 20% less than the top picks on this list it does offer less performance, but not dramatically so. A 40,000 mile tread life warranty comes on the tire in the Y speed rating required for the Model Y. Don’t be fooled by the 50,000 mile rating that may be advertised, that’s only for V and W rated tires.
Best Budget Tire for Tesla Model Y (Alternative)
Yokohama Parada Spec X
Not much cheaper than the Toyos above, the Yokohama Parada Spec X is a performance all-season tire that’s made for crossovers and SUVs. Grip in wet and inclement weather is solid though overall summer grip is a bit lacking, especially for the grippy tread compound used. This tire comes with a 420 UTQG rating (we’ll leave the 420 jokes to you) so it should offer impressive summer grip.
Perhaps the biggest drawback, however, is the lack of any mileage warranty. Plus, customer reviews aren’t terribly positive. We’d definitely go for the Toyos above.
Best Winter Tire for Tesla Model Y
Continental Winter Contact TS830
There are almost as many winter tire options for the Tesla Model Y as their are summer choices. And if we’re being totally honest, none of them will steer you wrong. In general, we really just want anyone who lives in a true winter climate to own some winter tires and not rely on all-seasons.
The Winter Contact TS830 is designed for high performance machines and features particularly wide shoulder tread blocks for added grip, no matter if you’re driving on cold clear roads, hit an icy patch or the road is completely covered in snow. In addition, the tread pattern is designed to force away water and slush.
Extra attention was also paid on this tire to limit road noise and we feel that in an EV like the Model Y, that’s particularly appreciated.
Cheapest Tire for Tesla Model Y
Laufenn S Fit AS
Yes, you can find cheaper tires than the Laufenn S Fit AS, but we can almost guarantee they are junk. This tire isn’t going to blow you way, but it does offer a solid compromise between performance and every day comfort.
All wether grip is solid, though they don’t perform as well in the cold as some pricier tires.
They also aren’t terribly long lasting with a mileage guarantee of 45,000 miles.
Extremely highly rated by consumers these will satisfy most Model Y owners. And the price is more than 50% less than what you’ll pay for a premium brand!
Additional Tesla Model Y Tires
Continental Extreme Contact Sport
Yokohama Advan A052 – This is a street-legal racing tire
See here for the best Tesla Model Y charger
Tire Buying FAQ
Where can I find the best price on tires?
There is no one answer to this question unfortunately. Sites like Tire Rack and Discount tire offer deals all the time on specific brands. You can also find deals on Amazon though they are much harder to find and often only apply to a specific size or group of sizes. Visit our Tire Deals page for more info.
When is the best time to buy tires?
It’s common that many shoppers buy tires once its already too late. At that point you don’t have a lot of choice and can often over-pay. If you’re planning ahead, generally, retailers offer significant tire deals around major holiday weekends (especially in the summer), as well as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
How much is Shipping?
Shipping is often included when you purchase tires online. Many retailers offer free shipping if you get your tires shipped to an installer that they recommend. Even if you ship to your home, Tire Rack offers free shipping on purchases over $50. And if you’re buying new tires, that won’t be hard.
How long does shipping take?
Shipping can take just a few days, or over a week in the worst cases. Often it depends on where you live. anyone in a larger urban center or living closer to a tire distribution center can get them quite quickly.
Does anyone offer mobile tire installation?
Depending on where you live, there may be numerous local mobile tire installers available. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of tracking one down, TireRack offers its own service. You don’t even have to purchase tires from TireRack to use it.
While it’s more expensive than bringing your tires to the shop, it’s also a lot more convenient. Prices start at $25 per tire.
How much does it cost to install a tire?
Generally you’ll pay between $25 and $50 per tire for installation services. This includes mounting and balancing, while using the latest tools so your rims don’t get scuffed or scraped.
Do I need to replace the tire pressure monitoring system when I change tires?
It’s not necessary to replace TMPS sensors when you change tires, but you may want to consider it. The units can fail over time due to damage or corrosion. Also, most units contain a battery and as a sealed unit, they must be replaced when the battery wears down. While most tire installers will handle sourcing these parts for you, you can also buy your own here.
Do online tire retailers offer rebates?
Absolutely! In fact, rebates are offered by most brands (even premium ones). Often these incentives are offered with other deals including up-front discounts and credit card offers.
I can’t find this tire for my Model Y Long Range 255/40/20 size. Any ideas or substitution that is equivalent.