Whether you’re currently running Openpilot with a Comma 3X in your Rivian R1T or R1S—or thinking about it—you already know the system can handle curves and highways with impressive precision. But there’s one often-overlooked upgrade that can significantly boost performance: your tires.
Tire construction directly affects Openpilot’s ability to steer confidently. The system calculates how much steering input to apply in order to follow the planned path ahead. If your tires flex too much or have significant resistance where rubber meets road, the steering torque Openpilot provides may not be enough—leading to lackluster handling on curves requiring the driver to assist the turn.
Rivian’s earlier stock tires—particularly those delivered on 2021 to 2024 models—weren’t optimized for aggressive cornering or high-speed lane changes. However, the factory tires Rivian is now providing on their newest models appear to perform better, offering improved grip and steering consistency. Still, if you’re on older tires or looking for an upgrade, there’s real performance to be gained.
Everyone Has to Replace Tires Eventually—Make It Count
Tires wear out—it’s inevitable. But when it’s time to replace yours, it’s the perfect chance to choose something that actually improves your Openpilot experience. According to our study, Rivians equipped with tires that had stiffer sidewalls allowed Openpilot to steer more confidently and precisely. These stiffer sidewalls helped the system achieve higher lateral acceleration factors, which in turn unlocked stronger, more stable steering—especially through curves and at higher speeds.
The key takeaway? Choose EV-rated or E1 load-rated tires. These tires are engineered to better suit the weight and dynamics of electric vehicles, and they typically offer lower road resistance, which allows Openpilot’s steering torque to be more effective and precise—especially at speed or during quick maneuvers.
You’ll notice:
- Fewer disengagements in curves
- Sharper, more responsive autosteer
- Improved confidence at higher speeds
Final Thoughts: When it’s time to swap out your tires, don’t treat it like a routine chore—treat it like a performance upgrade. Choosing the right tire can dramatically enhance your Comma 3X experience and unlock the full potential of Openpilot on your Rivian.
For the full technical breakdown, visit the official Comma wiki page on Rivian tire selection.
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