Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is a subsidiary of Bridgestone that has been producing tires in the United States since the creation of modern automobiles in the early 1900s. With a vast history and legacy, Firestone tires are one of the most popular tire brands that you can find today. Plus, not only are Firestone tires popular, but they offer some of the best durability.
What makes the company unique is its vast history, intelligent engineers, and ability to overcome change. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company has gone through many different difficult periods to be where they are today. Some of these changes include World War II, financial struggles, and even being sold off. The good news is that these changes have shaped Firestone’s tires into tires that people love and respect.
The engineers that create Firestone tires know that consumers need a tire that’s built to last. The company is known for its high-quality tires that are durable, efficient, safe, and affordable for everyone. When you’re out on the road, you want to make sure that your rubber has your back, which makes Firestone tires one of the best options.
If you’re curious about whether or not Firestone tires are for you, read on. We’ll be showing you what makes Firestone tires special, and how the company has adapted and changed to become what they are today. It may not seem like a simple tire company can be prestigious, but Firestone Tire and Rubber Company earned its fame.
The History of Firestone Tires
There are a lot of tire companies that have been around for decades, but Firestone Tire and Rubber Company has been around for over a century. When a company has a history that long, you know that they’re doing something right. So, let’s take some time to review the prestigious history of Firestone tires. In doing so, you’ll be able to see how over a century of innovation has gone into creating the tires you see from them today.
Firestone tires have been around since the 1900s. To be exact, the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company was founded in 1900. Harvey Firestone, the company’s founder, set out with a mission to build side-wide tires. The tires that the company was making were typically used within fire apparatuses of the early 1900s, but they quickly filled the rising demands for rubber when companies like Ford took off. These were tires designed for wagons, older cars, and buggies.
The reason we reference Ford is because of the relationship that Harvey Firestone had with Henry Ford. Ford was on the verge of mass-producing automobiles for the first time in 1906, but the one thing he lacked was a steady supply of rubber. Harvey Firestone quickly became that supply, which led to the rise of the automobiles that you see and drive today.
The relationship between the two men led to massive revenue for both companies. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company became one of the most profitable tire companies in the United States, along with Goodyear, and began to open factories to meet the high demands of automakers. Firestone factories were erected in Canada, England, and even Liberia in 1926. The Liberia location was the largest rubber manufacturing facility built during that era.
While Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is known for making tires to accommodate the need for passenger cars, in the 1920s the company built up enough success to begin experimenting. In fact, the company started to produce tires for racing called the Oldfield Tire. The tire was named after the driver Barney Oldfield, and became one of the first racing tires ever made.
Firestone also maintained success through World War II, which we’ll have more on in a moment, and thrived on its own for decades. While this may be the case, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company has changed hands since its creation. Financial troubles and changing markets made it tough for Firestone Tire and Rubber Company to turn a profit. Eventually, they landed themselves in a 250 million dollar profit deficit each year. For any company, this usually spells disaster and bankruptcy.
Luckily for Firestone, after a decade of turmoil and panic, the company was sold off to the Japanese giant Bridgestone in 1988. Bridgestone was able to turn things around for the sinking ship and helped Firestone get back up on its feet. Bridgestone now uses Firestone Tire and Rubber Company as a subsidiary, but Bridgestone did leave most of their smaller businesses up and running. Today, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is based out of Nashville, Tennessee.
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company During World War II
One thing that makes Firestone Tire and Rubber Company unique is that it was called upon by the United States government during World War II. The company answered the government’s call and began to produce products for the war effort. Out of all the companies that received contracts from the Federal Government, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company was ranked 55th.
Vehicles
Firestone tires were on a lot of different military vehicles. The primitive nature of World War II vehicles made tires essential, especially when dealing with foreign terrain or damaged roads. Making tires for the war meant that Firestone tires needed to be more durable than the average 20th-century tire, and they succeeded.
The usage of advanced polymers and steel alloys ensured that treads and sidewalls were strong, and this design became a staple of the company. Also, not only were Firestone tires found on jeeps, but even small aircrafts used them to make sure they landed safely at home and abroad.
Equipment
One thing that stands out about Firestone’s involvement in the war is that they didn’t exclusively make tires. For example, the company built plastic helmets, artillery shells, and barrage balloons. Plus, Firestone was able to build aluminum kegs that made it easier for the military to transport food at home and abroad. Some of the industrial equipment that Firestone Tire and Rubber Company created in the war carried over to civilian sales after the war, too.
The MGM-5 Corporal Missile
Once the second world war came to an end, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company still worked alongside the government. One of the company’s most impressive products became the MGM-5 Corporal Missile, which was one of the first missiles that could deliver a payload up to 75 miles. The rocket was designed as a countermeasure to Russian hostilities during the Cold War era.
While Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is known as a tire producer, their involvement in the Second World War shows that they know how to make high-quality products. However, once the MGM-5 Corporal Missile was decommissioned by 1962, Firestone went back to making tires for passenger cars.
What Sets Firestone Tires Apart
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company offers consumers a more well-rounded approach to tire shopping and care. From great rubber to excellent customer service, Firestone has it all. Let’s take a look at what makes Firestone tires special.
Full Service
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is a full-service company. Sure, they make tires that you can buy off of their website, but they also do a whole lot more. For example, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company storefront locations can change tires, oil, and other small automotive jobs. Compared to other tire manufacturers, having a place like that is unique.
Firestone has a lot of options on their website as well, which means that you can order whatever you need. Aside from tires, you’ll be able to find polymers, industrial products, textiles, building products, fibers, and more. While other companies focus on selling only tires, Firestone offers a full-fledged automotive store.
The reason that this aspect of Firestone tires is essential is because it allows you to get everything done in one place. If you purchase tires from one of their storefront locations, they’ll put them on your vehicle right then and there. Or, if you order Firestone tires online, you can head down to a Firestone location to have then fitted to your car. When it comes to convenience, and full service, Firestone tires are great.
A History of Serving the American People
Firestone tires have been in production since the creation of automotive vehicles. Throughout history, Firestone tires have been at the forefront of tire manufacturing. From early race cars to machines of war, Firestone has built them all. The reason that these accomplishments are significant is simple; as a consumer, you get a company that’s adapted over the years. When a company can survive for so long and serve the American people, it means that they’re doing something right.
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company built upon serving the American people in World War II and started to help the people differently. Compared to other tire companies, Firestone’s customer support is exceptional. When you have Firestone tires, there is a lot of support for you on the road. For example, if you can’t get on the phone with a customer service representative, you can always make your way down to one of Firestone’s many retail and repair locations.
Value
Firestone tires can be affordable for every budget, depending on what you’re looking for in a tire. Their sedan and coupe tires, when compared to the market average of $100 per tire, are less expensive. While this may be the case, Firestone tires still offer high-quality tires that can be used on any terrain. Of course, every tire is designed for different applications, but for the price, Firestone’s passenger line of tires provides excellent value.
Versatility
Firestone tires can be found on any vehicle. The company has been producing Formula 1 tires, passenger tires, and truck tires for decades. Not only can Firestone tires be comparable with any make and model, but Firestone tires also come in different sizes. Regardless of whether or not you need a 15-inch tire or 24-inch tire, Firestone can have your vehicle fitted.
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company knows how important it can be to make sure tires do different jobs. In fact, this is why Firestone tires have such a wide array of options. Firestone tires have been shown to offer a quiet ride, a comfortable off-road experience, and great treads for hooking and cornering in racing conditions.
Durability and Warranty
Firestone tires are some of the most durable tires you can find. Firestone Tire and Rubber Company has been using high-quality rubber and polymer for over 100 years, which has given their engineers plenty of time to create the perfect tire. Seeing service in World War II only boosts their reputation in regards to durability.
Firestone tires also provide benefits to your car that other tires don’t offer. For example, the longer lifespan that Firestone tires have ensures that your shocks and struts don’t become worn down due to tire baldness. So, not only do their tires last longer than most, but the tires preserve the life of your car as a bonus.
As for the warranties, Firestone tires typically come with warranties well over 50,000 miles (on select tires limited treadwear warranties of 65,000 miles are typical). The warranty depends on the tire, but you should have no issues with a warranty when shopping for passenger and truck tires. The only downside is that that same warranty does not back Firestone’s performance line of tires.
Firestone Design Features
Firestone tires come with a lot of options. With tires built for trucks, racecars, and passenger cars, it can be hard to determine which tire fits your needs. By taking a close look at what design features are essential when choosing a tire, you’ll be able to make an educated choice.
Deep Sipes
The sipe of a tire is what keeps you on the road when you encounter water. While cars tend to hydroplane when their tires have insufficient tread, Firestone tires incorporate deep sipes within their tires to ensure that the water is appropriately dispersed on both sides of the tire. The result of this feature is improved performance when driving in inclement weather conditions.
Fuel Fighting Technology
Fuel fighting technology allows Firestone tires to increase your average gas mileage out on the road. While it may seem shocking to learn that a tire can do this, Firestone tires accomplish this feat by reducing resistance out on the road. When you’re driving, the more resistance your tire creates the less gas mileage you’ll get. Firestone knows this and focuses on reducing resistance in select tires.
Biting Edges
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company is fond of biting edges, and they should be. The biting edge of your tire is what helps it stay stuck to the road when you make maneuvers or do high-speed driving. According to tests done by Bridgestone, select Firestone tires come with 400% more biting edges than competitors like Goodyear.
Computerized Optimization
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company understands the importance of rigorous testing parameters. It’s one thing to suggest that a tire has a long lifespan, but when you can prove it, that’s even better. For this reason, Firestone tires are exposed to testing and designs backed by 3D computer imaging.
Firestone tires go through rigorous testing before they end up on your vehicle. A computer processes each tire and makes sure that the tread spacing, depth, and size is where it’s supposed to be. The computer imaging also allows Firestone tires to change in size without losing quality, which is why you can find Firestone tires in a lot of different shapes and sizes.
O-Bead Treads
O-bead treads are unique to Firestone tires and offer high-quality performance and durability. The o-bead tread design is special because it uses a continuous cable construction design. By using this type of design in a tire, the tire offers a smooth ride that tends to hold up to the environment better. The o-bead treads also tend to give the tire a uniform look that can improve the appearance of your car. So, while you’re driving in style, you’ll be safe and comfortable the whole time.
Materials and Construction
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company knows that superior materials and construction are essential when building a tire. Unlike a lot of other companies, Firestone Tire and Rubber Company does not limit their tires to just polymer and rubber. While polymer and rubber create a robust tire, Firestone knows that steel is king.
The company was able to find a way to reinforce its sidewalls with a lightweight steel alloy that can stand up to debris. When it comes to the lifespan of a tire, the protection of the sidewall is essential. With a strong sidewall, the risk of premature tread loss plummets along with a reduced risk of blowouts.
Firestone Tires’ Reputation
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company has a prestigious history that helped establish their reputation with consumers. From high-performing tires to war machines, Firestone is recognized as one of the best tire manufacturers in the United States. Let’s take a look at how they earned this reputation.
The Indianapolis 500
The Indianapolis 500, also known as the Indi-500, is how Firestone Tire and Rubber Company built the foundation for its success within the racing community. The first race that Firestone tires won in was the Indianapolis 500 that took place in 1911, which was also the first race that was held. The car that crossed the finish line had a set of Firestone tires on it.
1911 was not the only year that Firestone tires won the race. In fact, from 1920 through 1966, Firestone tires were on every single car that ended up winning. When you have 46 years of consecutive race wins, bragging rights are deserved. Racing glory may have had people learning and talking about the brand, but the innovations that Firestone made showed in passenger tires as well.
World War II
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company contributed a lot to the war effort, which helped the American people believe in the brand. The growing support from the population helped the company sell more tires. When you make tires for World War II, among other products, it proves that you can make a high-quality product. Knowing that Firestone was involved in the war makes them a brand that people can trust.
Who Are Firestone Tires For?
When shopping for a set of tires, you want to know who the manufacturer’s target market is. When you know who a tire is for, it can help you determine whether or not that set of tires is right for you. Let’s take some time to see who different models of Firestone tires work the best for.
Firestone tires tend to be geared towards casual drivers that commute to work or participate in other everyday driving. While their performance line of racing and off-road tires are on par with other brands, the price tends to climb. When shopping for Firestone tires, you want to consider how inexpensive these tires are for your vehicle. Keep in mind that the value a tire provides is based on a few different categories, such as the price, the warranty, and how long they tend to last. In all of these categories, Firestone tires are among the best.
Based on this information, it’s safe to say that Firestone tires are an excellent choice for consumers looking for affordable tires that offer outstanding durability and a long lifespan. If you’re shopping for a set of tires that you’ll be using on the vehicle you use every day, choosing Firestone tires is a great choice.
Best Selling Firestone Tires
Firestone tires have been around for over a century, which means that the engineers at Firestone have had plenty of time to create excellent tires. While any Firestone tire is a good tire, there are a few tires that stand out.
Firestone Transforce HT Radial Tire
For performance enthusiasts, the Firestone Transforce HT Radial Tire quickly became a bestselling tire. Backed by computer enhancements to measure perfect tread spacing and compounds, these radial tires keep your vehicle glued to the road on the street or at the track. The tires also don’t sacrifice durability and are manufactured with strong rubber, steel, and polymer.
Firestone Destination A/T All-Season Radial Tire
The Firestone Destination A/T All-Season Radial Tire is the perfect example of engineering at its finest. The tire is built and tested with computer imaging to make sure that each tire is assembled correctly. Incorporating an O-Bead design, this Firestone tire can handle any terrain while offering a comfortable ride.
Firestone All-Season Radial Tire
The Firestone All-Season Radial Tire is built with both strength and performance. The 25-pound radial design helps you glide over the road with comfort, and the rubber and steel construction keeps the tire together for well over 65,000 miles. Regardless of the weather, these tires are strong and safe.
A List of Firestone Tires
You’ve learned about their history, and some of the best Firestone tires on the market, but every person has different needs. So, here is a look at a brief description and full list of tires that Firestone Tire and Rubber Company produces today:
All-Season
All season tires from Firestone are great all-around tires. These tires offer high mileage warranties and hold up to unfavorable conditions. Here is a look at Firestone’s all-season line of tires:
- All-Season Passenger Tires
Champion
Champion tires are the longest lasting tires you can get from Firestone. These tires can handle most weather conditions and offer the most extended tread warranty that the company provides (70,000 miles). Here is a look at tires from the Firestone’s champion lineup:
- Champion Fuel Fighter
- Affinity Touring
Destination
Destination tires do precisely what their name suggests; help you reach your next destination. Whether that destination is down a dirt road or city corner, these tires can carry you there safely and comfortably. There are a lot of destination tire options, including:
- Destination X/T
- Destination LE2
- Destination M/T
- Destination A/T Special Addition
- Destination A/T2
- Destination LE3
Firehawk
Firehawk tires may sound intimidating, but they’re built for performance and safety. Firehawk tires are designed for high-speed driving, drifting, and cornering. While the selection is limited compared to other Firestone models, there are a few options, including:
- Firehawk AS
- Firehawk Indy 500
- Firehawk Wide Oval RFT
- Firehawk Wide Oval Indy 500
- Firehawk GTA-2
Transforce
Transforce tires are for people who will be hauling heavy materials in light or heavy trucks. These tires are built to last and offer superior durability. Transforce tires include:
- Transforce HT2
- Transforce H/T
- Transforce A/T
Winterforce
Firestone Winterforce tires are designed to combat the harsh conditions that winter can throw at you. The Winterforce line if tires come in different shapes and sizes, and each tire can be purchased according to your car’s model. Here is a list of all Firestone Winterforce tires:
- Winterforce 2
- Winterforce 2 UV
- Winterforce LT
- Winterforce CV
