Why tyre sales fell in 2025: figures and structural causes

The mid-range needs to better demonstrate its value

The intermediate segment is particularly exposed. A mid-range brand can be more expensive than a budget reference without benefiting from the same brand awareness as a premium manufacturer.

To be persuasive, she must therefore make her advantages more visible:

• better longevity ;
• high-performance braking ;
• reduced noise level ;
• optimised rolling resistance; ;
• more consistent behaviour; ;
• guarantee or associated services.

3. The all-season tyre transforms fitting habits

The development of the all-season tyre is one of the major developments in the market.

In the first half of 2025, all-season tyres were the only category to show growth, rising by 6.8 %. They accounted for 39 % of sales across the channels surveyed. Their average price stood at around €102, compared with €105 for summer tyres.

Why are all-season tyres proving so popular?

The all-season tyre allows motorists to keep the same equipment all year round. It particularly meets the needs of drivers who live in a region with moderate winters and who do not regularly drive in heavy snow conditions.

Its main advantages are as follows:

• absence of seasonal change twice a year; ;
• deletion of a second game's storage; ;
• equipment suitable for both summer and mild winter; ;
• access to numerous dimensions; ;
• possible compliance with the Mountain Law with 3PMSF marking.

Before choosing, motorists can check the Comparison of all-season tyres, which brings together different models and their evaluations.

Ranges offered by major manufacturers

The majority of major manufacturers now offer all-season models.

Among the best-known ranges are:

• the CrossClimate tyres Michelin ;
• the Vector 4Seasons tyres Goodyear ;
• the Kinergy 4S tyres from Hankook ;
• the Seasonproof ones Nokian Tyres ;
• the AllSeasonContact tyres from Continental.

This proliferation of references makes the all-season tyre accessible to a greater number of vehicles, sizes and price points.

Does the all-season tyre halve purchases?

Not automatically.

A motorist with summer and winter tyres generally has two sets of four tyres. A driver using all-season tyres often has only one set.

The all-season tyre therefore reduces the need for dual equipment, seasonal changes and storage. However, it is driven all year round and accumulates miles more quickly than a set used for only one season.

Therefore, the number of tyres replaced in the long term depends on several factors:

• annual mileage ;
• journey types ;
• driving style ;
• pressure ;
• geometry ;
• vehicle weight ;
• quality and durability of the model ;
• weather conditions.

The rise of all-season tyres is mainly transforming market seasonality and the frequency of workshop visits. It does not allow us to claim that every motorist will systematically consume half as many tyres.

4. Fewer kilometres mean less wear and tear

The reduction in annual mileage also helps to slow down tyre renewal.

In 2025, the average annual mileage of cars registered in France fell by 1 %, to around 11,600 kilometres per vehicle. The total distance travelled fell by 0.3 %.

This trend can be explained by several changes:

• growth of remote working; ;
• consolidation of travel ;
• increased use of public transport; ;
• increase in cycling and walking for short journeys; ;
• cost of car usage ;
• reduction of certain non-essential travel.

Lower mileage extends the replacement cycle

When a vehicle covers fewer kilometres, the tread generally wears down less quickly. The driver therefore keeps their tyres for a longer period.

This phenomenon mechanically reduces the frequency of orders, particularly among motorists who rarely use their cars.

A lightly used tyre still continues to age

Low mileage does not mean a tyre can be kept without inspection.

Even when it is driven very little, it remains exposed:

• to temperature variations; ;
• under ultraviolet light; ;
• to humidity; ;
• against kerb impacts; ;
• to prolonged immobilisation; ;
• to pressure losses; ;
• to the natural ageing of the rubber.

It is therefore advisable to regularly check the condition of the sidewalls, the tread, the pressure and the presence of any deformation.

5. The ageing of the vehicle fleet is lengthening the cycles

As of 1 January 2026, approximately 40 million passenger cars were in circulation in France. Their average age reached 11.8 years.

Keeping vehicles for longer has several consequences for the tyre market.

Vehicles used more moderately

A vintage car can become a second vehicle or be reserved for occasional journeys. Its annual mileage then decreases, which slows down the wear of its tyres.

More heavily scrutinised spending

The owner of a vintage vehicle may hesitate to invest in premium equipment when the residual value of their car is low.

He can then:

• choose a budget brand ;
• defer the replacement ;
• replace only two tyres; ;
• search for a special offer ;
• compare prices online more carefully.

Compatibility remains essential

Whatever the age of the vehicle, the approved dimensions and load/speed ratings must be respected.

The page that allows’buy car tyres online help with finding the right references before placing an order.

6. The Mountain Law promotes 3PMSF tyres

Winter regulations have increased motorists' interest in approved all-season tyres.

Between 1st November and 31st March, winter equipment is compulsory in certain communes located in 34 mountainous departments.

Since 1 November 2024, tyres bearing only the M+S marking are no longer accepted as equivalent to chains. To comply with the requirement using tyres alone, they must bear the 3PMSF symbol, representing a three-peaked mountain and a snowflake.

Drivers can view the details of the Mountain Law and authorised equipment before choosing their tyres.

Why does this regulation benefit the 4 seasons?

An all-season tyre bearing the 3PMSF marking can comply with the requirement in the relevant zones while remaining fitted throughout the summer.

For many motorists, it therefore represents a practical solution to avoid:

• the purchase of a second set of wheels; ;
• two fitting appointments a year; ;
• the storage of unused tyres; ;
• the grounding of the vehicle at the change of each season.

Winter tyres remain relevant in certain situations

The all-season tyre is a compromise. It does not necessarily replace a specialised winter tyre when the driver travels regularly:

• on snow-covered roads ;
• in the mountains ;
• at very low temperatures; ;
• on roads that are frequently icy; ;
• with a heavy or heavily laden vehicle.

Affected drivers can consult the Winter tyre comparison in order to identify models suited to cold conditions.

7. An increasingly digital purchasing journey

The consumer is no longer content with just asking their garage for a recommendation. They can now compare prices, brands, performance and reviews themselves before placing an order.

This evolution profoundly alters the role of the distributor.

More comparison criteria

When searching for tyres online, the motorist can check:

• the unit price; ;
• availability ;
• the delivery time ;
• the European label; ;
• wet grip; ;
• rolling resistance ;
• The sound level ;
• user reviews ;
• the test results ;
• the associated services.

This transparency makes it possible to compare several references without limiting the decision to a brand's reputation.

Online shopping and local assembly are complementary

Ordering your tyres online doesn't mean having to fit them yourself.

Motorists can select a Partner fitting centre and have their order delivered directly to the chosen professional. The centre then carries out the fitting, balancing and scheduled operations according to its services.

This organisation associates:

• the choice offered by online shopping; ;
• the comparison of references; ;
• dropshipping ;
• the intervention of a local professional.

8. The consequences for manufacturers and retailers

The drop in volumes is accompanied by a shift in the product mix.

Manufacturers are adapting their ranges

Manufacturers are developing more all-season tyres and offering their models in a growing number of sizes.

They are also working on:

• longevity ;
• The rolling noise ;
• rolling resistance ;
• wet grip; ;
• compatibility with electric vehicles; ;
• winter performance.

Retailers must restore value to the product

When prices are easily comparable, the difference is made through the quality of the support.

The distributor must explain, in particular:

• why two tyres at the same price can have different performance ;
• when to choose summer, winter or all-season tyres; ;
• how to interpret the European label; ;
• why pressure influences fuel consumption and wear ;
• when to change a tyre ;
• what guarantees are offered? ;
• how to organise the editing.

9. How Pneus Online supports this development

In a market where motorists are looking to better control their expenses, Pneus Online does not limit itself to presenting a catalogue.

The objective is to help every driver identify a solution that is consistent with their vehicle, journeys and priorities.

A selection tailored to different needs

The section car tyres from Pneus Online provides access to references:

• summer ;
• winter ;
• 4 seasons ;
• premium ;
• mid-range ;
• economic; ;
• for cars; ;
• for SUVs and 4x4s; ;
• for vans.

The driver can search for tyres using the dimensions written on the sidewall or the vehicle specifications.

Tests and reviews to compare in ways other than price

The reviews available on Pneus Online make it possible to compare several aspects of a tyre's performance.

Depending on the references, users can evaluate, among other things:

• driving on dry roads ;
• driving on wet roads ;
• handling ;
• comfort ;
• The sound level ;
• the relationship between wear and tear and mileage; ;
• The value for money.

This information helps to understand that a tyre that is slightly more expensive to buy can be more worthwhile if it offers better durability or more suitable handling.

Local fitting solutions

Once the order has been completed, the customer can search for a garage or professional that accepts delivery and fitting.

This solution avoids transporting tyres and simplifies the journey between purchase and installation.

Pneus Online Prime to build driver loyalty

The programme Pneus Online Prime subject to the applicable terms:

• a welcome benefit ;
• free delivery excluding exceptions; ;
• discounts on a selection of products; ;
• a 12-month warranty on four tyres or four wheels; ;
• priority customer service access.

The card is valid for 12 months and allows you to benefit from its advantages on multiple purchases made during its validity period.

A guarantee to better cope with the unexpected

The Tyre insurance from Pneus Online can offer 12 months of protection against certain covered damages, including punctures or certain acts of vandalism, depending on the terms of the chosen contract.

This protection helps to reassure the customer and put the service back at the heart of the purchase.

Conclusion

The decline in tyre sales in 2025 is the result of several simultaneous developments.

Motorists are driving slightly less, keeping their vehicles for longer and exercising greater discretion over their spending. Budget brands are growing in popularity, while all-season tyres are changing fitting habits and reducing the need for seasonal changes.

The market does not disappear: it becomes more rational, more transparent and more competitive.

In this context, the challenge is no longer just to sell a significant volume of tires. It is about helping the driver choose the right product at the right time, based on their vehicle and usage.

Thanks to its search tools, tests, various ranges, assembly solutions, warranty, and Prime program, Pneus Online supports motorists Throughout their journey, from the comparison of the models to their installation.

FAQ on the decline in tire sales in 2025

Why have tire sales decreased in 2025?

The decline is explained by budget constraints, the reduction in annual mileage, the aging of the vehicle fleet, the postponement of certain purchases, and the shift in the market towards 4-season tires.

What was the decline in the French market in 2025?

The sales of TC4 tires by manufacturers to distributors declined % by 4.4 in 2025. Approximately 30.58 million units were sold.

Do 4-season tires decrease sales?

They reduce the need to own both a summer and a winter game at the same time. However, they drive all year round and accumulate more kilometers. They therefore mainly modify the rhythm and seasonality of their purchases.

Why are economic brands growing?

Drivers are trying to control their spending and are more carefully comparing prices. The budget brands are meeting this expectation, even though their performance and durability may vary depending on the models.

Do 4-season tires replace winter tires?

Not in all situations. They are suitable for many drivers facing moderate winters. A specialized winter tire generally remains more suitable for frequent trips on snow, in extreme cold, and regular driving in the mountains.

How to choose your tires without only looking at their price?

The approved dimensions, load and speed indices, the season, the climate, the mileage, the vehicle, and the performance sought must be taken into account. Tests and reviews also allow for comparing grip, noise, comfort, and durability.