SACRAMENTO - New rules will limit the types of replacement tires Californians can buy, a move state officials say will save drivers money. Tire manufacturers, however, disagree.

Under the new standards, about 70% of the tires currently sold in California would no longer qualify for sale once the regulations are fully implemented.

Supporters argue the rules will benefit the environment, improve vehicle fuel efficiency and, over time, save drivers money at the pump.

Critics counter that the regulations will lead to significantly higher tire prices, outweighing any fuel savings.

In the not-too-distant future, California drivers could face fewer choices when shopping for replacement tires.

“The new tire efficiency standards that my commission just adopted yesterday will ensure that the tires sold in 2029 will be the same quality, just as good as the tires that are on your brand new car when you drive it off the lot,” said Nancy Skinner, a commissioner with the California Energy Commission.

On Monday, the commission unanimously voted to adopt new standards governing which replacement tires can be sold in California.

The regulations will be implemented in two phases, the first in 2029 and the second in 2033.

The commission says replacement tires often do not deliver the same fuel efficiency as the tires originally sold with new vehicles. Officials argue the higher standards will result in only modest price increases that drivers will eventually recover through fuel savings. (Source: KTLA)

Story Date: August 18, 2026