High prices for tires can be partially blames on current US (China) trade policy . You can thank the unions.
Rutgers University economist Thomas J. Prusa, who testified before the ITC on behalf of importers, said it is unrealistic to think tariffs lasting three years would spur domestic investment in tire manufacturing. More likely, more tires would be imported from other low-cost producers, he said.
Mr. Prusa said tariffs could cost 25,000 U.S. jobs and force consumers to spend $600 million to $700 million more a year on tires. The ITC doesn't calculate tariffs' economic impact when studying complaints -- something the administration is sure to do.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125141844257765129.html
"By taking this unprecedented action, the Obama administration is now at odds with its own public statements about refraining from increasing tariffs above current levels," Mr. DeIorio said. "This decision will cost many more American jobs than it will create. It will also increase costs for, and take away choices from, American consumers."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125271824237605479.html