The Useless Tire Regulation Nobody Asked For

The Useless Tire Regulation Nobody Asked For

June 15, 2026 · 41 min · Season 1 · Episode 449

About this episode

The episode discusses a new tire efficiency regulation in California and its potential impact on consumers and the automotive market.

This week we’re talking tires—and no, not just the dangerously tempting Avants member deals you should be taking advantage of! California is rolling out a new tire efficiency regulation that’s already stirring up debate across the auto world. On paper, it’s about improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. In reality, it could significantly reshape what tires you can actually buy and make you buy more of them. A lot more. The rule centers around rolling resistance—basically how much energy your tires waste as they roll down the road. Under the proposed program, replacement tires sold in California will need to meet stricter efficiency standards, similar to the low rolling resistance tires that come on new cars from the factory. Here’s where it gets interesting: Tires that don’t meet the standard may no longer be legal to sell in the state. The regulation is expected to roll out in phases starting around January 1, 2028. It applies to most passenger vehicle and light truck replacement tires, with some exemptions (like certain off-road or low-volume tires). The goal is improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, with "projected" cost savings for drivers over time (hint: that…

People in this episode

Host: Avants

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Products: replacement tires, low rolling resistance tires

Places: California, California

More episodes of The Avants Podcast

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Avants Podcast podcast page.