The Tesla Model Y is one of the UK's best-selling cars.
For many drivers it has also been their first experience of an electric vehicle.
The car is valued for its long range and spacious interior. With a strong performance and quiet, stylish cabin.
Because the Model Y, like all EVs, is a heavy and high-torque vehicle the tyres that you fit have a bigger influence on how it drives. The right tyres help to protect your range as well as reduce road noise levels and perhaps most importantly stay safe.
An electric SUV asks more of its tyres than a traditional car. There are several reasons for this:
Weight. The battery pack makes the Model Y heavier than a similar-sized petrol SUV. This in turn increases the load on the tyres.
Instant torque. Electric motors deliver power immediately. So tyres need strong grip and a solid construction to cope.
A quiet cabin. With no engine noise to mask it, tyre road noise is far more noticeable in an EV.
Range levels. Rolling resistance has a direct effect on how far you can drive between charges. An efficient tyre helps protect range.
Regenerative braking. The Model Y recovers energy through the rear wheels. Which can wear the rear tyres faster than the fronts.
This is why many Model Y owners look for
EV-specific tyres. Tyres that have been engineered to balance grip, range and longevity.
Top Tesla Model Y Tyre Recommendations
Tyre Model
Category
Most Popular Size
Fuel Efficiency
Wet Grip
Noise Rating
Michelin Pilot Sport EV
Summer (EV)
255/45 R19
B
B
71-72 dB
Michelin Primacy 5
Summer
255/45 R19
A-B
A-B
70-71 dB
Michelin CrossClimate 3
All-Season
255/45 R19
B-C
A-B
70-72 dB
Continental EcoContact 6 Q
Summer
255/45 R19
A-C
A-B
70-72 dB
Hankook iON evo SUV
Summer (EV)
255/45 R19
A-C
A-B
70-72 dB
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
Summer
255/40 R20
B-C
A
71-72 dB
Note: EU tyre label ratings vary depending on the exact tyre size, load rating and speed rating selected. Always confirm the rating shown for the specific tyre you are buying.
Common Tesla Model Y Tyre Sizes
Before buying new tyres for a Tesla Model Y, always check the size of your current tyres. You can find this on the sidewall. Alternatively check your vehicle’s handbook.
Tyre size also depends on which factory wheel your car was originally fitted with. The most common Tesla Model Y tyre sizes are:
255/45 R19 - 19" Gemini wheels (standard, and the best choice for range)
It has been designed around three core things that matter to EV drivers. It uses a low-rolling-resistance design to help protect range. It features Michelin Acoustic technology - a foam layer inside the tyre designed to reduce perceived cabin noise. And it draws on Michelin's Formula E experience through an ElectricGrip compound designed to handle instant EV torque.
It is a summer tyre and so not rated for winter use. It is best for drivers who want sporty, efficient performance in milder UK conditions.
Michelin Pilot Sport EV Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: B
Wet Grip Rating: B
Noise Level Rating: 71-72 dB
Michelin Pilot Sport EV Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/45 R19
customers have reviewed the Pilot Sport EV as follows:
Michelin Primacy 5
The
Michelin Primacy 5 is Michelin's everyday premium summer tyre. Developed around the need for efficiency, comfort and a long-lasting performance.
For a Model Y used mainly for commuting and family driving, it is a sensible choice for drivers.
Michelin Primacy 5 Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: A-B
Wet Grip Rating: A-B
Noise Level Rating: 70-71 dB
Michelin Primacy 5 Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/45 R19
customers have reviewed the Primacy 5 as follows:
Continental EcoContact 6 Q
The
Continental EcoContact 6 Q is a premium summer tyre designed around efficiency and braking performance. With EV-ready versions available in Model Y sizes. It suits drivers who want an efficient tyre from a premium brand.
Continental EcoContact 6 Q Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: A-C
Wet Grip Rating: A-B
Noise Level Rating: 70-72 dB
Continental EcoContact 6 Q Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/45 R19
customers have reviewed the EcoContact 6 Q as follows:
Hankook iON evo SUV
The
Hankook iON evo SUV is an EV-specific summer tyre and a common factory fitment on electric SUVs. Including the Model Y.
It has been designed for the weight and torque of heavier EVs. And is a strong value option among EV-focused tyres.
Hankook iON evo SUV Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: A-C
Wet Grip Rating: A-B
Noise Level Rating: 70-72 dB
Hankook iON evo SUV Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/45 R19
customers have reviewed the iON evo SUV as follows:
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6
The
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 is a performance-focused summer tyre suited to drivers of the Model Y Performance who want sharper handling and strong wet braking.
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: B-C
Wet Grip Rating: A
Noise Level Rating: 71-72 dB
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/40 R20
customers have reviewed the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 as follows:
Best All-Season Tyres For Tesla Model Y
For most UK Model Y drivers, an all-season tyre is a practical year-round option.
The UK’s winters are usually cold and wet - rather than consistently snowy. So a all-season tyre offers a sensible balance across the year. Without the cost and storage of changing between summer and winter tyres.
Recommended Tesla Model Y all-season tyres include:
Performing in dry, wet and colder conditions. The tyre carries the 3PMSF winter certification. Meaning it has also been approved for snow and ice.
For a Tesla Model Y used daily in the UK, it is a good option for drivers who want one set of tyres throughout the months. With the safety and longevity Michelin is known for.
It is a particularly sensible choice in northern or higher-altitude parts of the UK that see more cold, wet and occasional wintry weather.
Michelin CrossClimate 3 Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: B-C
Wet Grip Rating: A-B
Noise Level Rating: 70-72 dB
Michelin CrossClimate 3 Most Popular Tesla Model Y Size
255/45 R19
customers have reviewed the CrossClimate 3 as follows:
Continental AllSeasonContact 2
The
Continental AllSeasonContact 2 is an all-season tyre for Model Y drivers who want reliable performance across varied UK weather from a premium brand.
Continental AllSeasonContact 2 Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: B-C
Wet Grip Rating: B
Noise Level Rating: 71-72 dB
customers have reviewed the AllSeasonContact 2 as follows:
Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3
The
Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 is a well-rounded all-season tyre suited to drivers who want balanced year-round performance. Particularly in areas with cold mornings and heavy rain.
Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 Tyre Label Ratings
Fuel Efficiency Rating: B-C
Wet Grip Rating: B-C
Noise Level Rating: 71-72 dB
customers have reviewed the Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 as follows:
Do You Need Winter Tyres On A Tesla Model Y?
Dedicated winter tyres are not necessary for most UK Tesla Model Y drivers.
They are designed for sustained cold, snow and ice, which most of the UK only experiences occasionally.
For the typical UK driver, a quality all-season tyre such as the Michelin CrossClimate 3 is a more practical year-round solution.
It carries winter certification for colder conditions while still working well in the wet and mild weather that makes up most of the UK year.
For drivers weighing up whether a premium tyre is worth it on a Model Y, these are the main reasons Michelin is so often recommended for cars like this.
Range and efficiency. Michelin's EV and energy ranges (such as the Pilot Sport EV and Primacy 5) use low-rolling-resistance designs engineered to help protect the range of a heavy EV like the Model Y.
A quieter cabin. Michelin Acoustic technology is designed to reduce perceived road noise inside the cabin - something you notice far more in a quiet EV.
Longevity. Michelin engineers its tyres to deliver safe performance down to the legal minimum tread depth, which supports better value over the life of the tyre.
Safety in the dry, wet and cold. Michelin's compounds are designed for confident braking and grip across conditions, with all-season options like the CrossClimate 3 certified for winter use.
Motorsport and EV heritage. As a founding partner of Formula E, Michelin develops EV-specific technology that filters down into road tyres such as the Pilot Sport EV.
Manufacturing quality and cover. Michelin tyres are backed by the manufacturer's quality standards, and any tyre you buy from Blackcircles can be protected with our Tyre Guarantee against accidental damage.
Tesla Model Y Tyres Range
Tyres are one of the biggest influences on EV range that owners can actually control.
Two factors matter most:
Rolling resistance. A lower-rolling-resistance tyre, such as an EV-specific or premium efficiency tyre, requires less energy to keep moving, which helps protect range. EU label fuel-efficiency ratings (A to G) are a useful guide here.
Wheel and tyre size. Larger wheels and lower-profile tyres look sportier but reduce efficiency. If maximising range is your priority, the standard 19" Gemini setup (255/45 R19) is the most efficient of the factory options.
Keeping tyres correctly inflated also protects both range and tyre life - underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance and wear faster.
How To Choose The Right Tesla Model Y Tyres
The best tyres for a Tesla Model Y depend on how and where you drive. Consider the following:
For mostly town and motorway commuting, prioritise efficiency, low noise and wet braking - an EV-specific or premium efficiency summer tyre, or a quality all-season tyre, works well.
For year-round UK use with no tyre swapping, an all-season tyre such as the Michelin CrossClimate 3 is a practical choice.
For the Model Y Performance or sportier driving, a performance summer or EV tyre such as the Michelin Pilot Sport EV improves grip and steering response.
Always match the correct size, load rating and speed rating for your car.
When Should You Replace Tyres on Tesla Model Y?
Tesla Model Y tyres must be replaced before the tread depth reaches the UK legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its full circumference.
Because the Model Y uses regenerative braking, the rear tyres can wear faster than the fronts. Rotating tyres regularly can help to even out wear and get the most life from a set. Consult with an expert before doing this.
You should also replace a tyre if you notice:
Cuts, cracks or bulges in the sidewall
Uneven wear across the tread
Persistent air pressure loss
Damage after hitting a kerb or pothole
Age-related cracking or hardening
Are Premium Tyres Worth It On A Tesla Model Y?
Premium tyres can be well worth fitting to a Tesla Model Y.
Because the car is heavy, quick and quiet, it places more demand on its tyres than a typical petrol car. A quality tyre has a direct effect on range, cabin noise and how long the tyres last.
For many owners, the strongest argument is value over the life of the tyre. A premium EV or all-season tyre that protects range, stays quiet and lasts well can be better value than a cheaper tyre replaced more often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Tyres For A Tesla Model Y?
The best tyres for a Tesla Model Y include the Michelin Pilot Sport EV for EV-specific performance and range. The Michelin Primacy 5 for efficient everyday driving. The Michelin CrossClimate 3 for all-season UK use. The Continental EcoContact 6 Q for premium efficiency. The Hankook iON evo SUV as an EV-focused value option. The right choice depends on your wheel size, driving style and whether you want a summer or all-season tyre.
What Size Tyres Does A Tesla Model Y Use?
The most common Tesla Model Y tyre sizes are 255/45 R19 on the 19" Gemini wheels, 255/40 R20 on the 20" Induction wheels and 255/35 R21 on the 21" Überturbine wheels. Some Performance models use a wider rear tyre. Always confirm the size on your sidewall or in your handbook before ordering.
Are Michelin Tyres Good For A Tesla Model Y?
Yes. Michelin is a premium, original-equipment tyre brand for many electric and performance cars, including Tesla. Its EV-specific Pilot Sport EV is designed to prolong your range, reduce cabin noise and handle the weight and torque of an EV. While the Michelin CrossClimate 3 is a strong all-season choice for year-round UK driving.
Are Michelin Tyres Worth The Money On A Tesla Model Y?
For many Model Y owners, Michelin tyres are worth the higher upfront cost because of the value they offer over the life of the tyre. Their low-rolling-resistance designs help protect range, Acoustic technology helps keep the cabin quiet, and they are engineered to perform safely down to the legal tread limit, which can make them better value over time than a cheaper tyre replaced more often.
Can You Fit Non-Tesla Tyres To A Model Y?
Yes. You can fit any quality tyre of the correct size, load rating and speed rating to a Tesla Model Y - you are not limited to tyres carrying Tesla's T0 or T1 marking. However, a Tesla-tuned or EV-specific tyre will usually be quieter and more efficient, which better suits the car.
Do Tesla Model Y Tyres Wear Out Faster?
Tesla Model Y tyres can wear faster than those on a comparable petrol SUV because the car is heavier and delivers instant torque. Regenerative braking can also wear the rear tyres more quickly. Keeping them correctly inflated and choosing a long-lasting tyre all help extend their life.
Are All-Season Tyres Good For A Tesla Model Y?
All-season tyres are a good choice for most UK Model Y drivers. A quality all-season tyre such as the Michelin CrossClimate 3 offers reliable year-round grip, carries winter certification for colder conditions and avoids the cost of swapping between summer and winter tyres - which suits the UK's mostly mild, wet climate.
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