Michelin brand earns highest ratings in J.D. Power and Associates study

Sept. 12, 2005

The Michelin brand ranked highest in original equipment tire satisfaction in four segments in global marketing information services firm J.D. Power and Associates' 2005 Original Equipment Tire Customer Satisfaction Study.

The study is based on responses from more than 32,000 new-vehicle owners who purchased a vehicle between 2003 and 2004. Overall satisfaction of OE tires is based on performance in five factors: wearability, appearance, traction, ride and handling. Rankings are based on owners’ experiences with their tires during the first year of ownership.

Michelin achieves the highest OE tire satisfaction index score in each of the four segments included in the study: luxury/sport; mass-market/non-luxury; pickup/full-size van; and SUV. Michelin leads all four segments in the five factors contributing to customer satisfaction.

Tire wearability continues to be the most important factor contributing to overall customer satisfaction, says the research firm. The study finds that among consumers who experienced problems with their tires within the first 12 months of ownership, one-half report puncture damage and only 14% cite tread wear issues.

Tom Chubb, vice president of marketing, Michelin Automotive Industry Division, added, “We are also pleased to see the strong support for our BFGoodrich Tires which placed second only to Michelin in the SUV and pickup tire categories.”