The US automotive bearing market is poised for robust growth through 2035, driven by increased vehicle production, rapid adoption of electric vehicles, and technological advancements in bearing design. Bearings play a crucial role in reducing friction and supporting rotating components in engines, wheels, transmissions, and steering systems. The market, valued at USD 5,800 Million in 2025, is anticipated to reach USD 9,420 Million by 2035, registering a CAGR of 4.9%. Companies are focusing on innovation, sustainability, and integration of smart sensor technologies to enhance operational performance and extend bearing life.
Latest Market Dynamics
Key Drivers
Surge in electric vehicle adoption: Automakers are rapidly expanding EV portfolios, which utilize advanced bearing technologies for high efficiency. For instance,
’s smart bearings are seeing increased adoption among US EV manufacturers in 2025.
Rising demand for fuel-efficient and low-maintenance vehicles: Companies like NTN Corporation have introduced sealed and sensor bearings, reducing maintenance intervals and supporting stringent emission regulations.
Key Trends
Integration of IoT-enabled sensor bearings: Real-time monitoring solutions from Schaeffler Group and Timken are witnessing significant uptake as US OEMs focus on predictive maintenance in 2025.
Shift towards lightweight and durable material usage: NSK Ltd. is developing ceramic and composite bearings to help automakers address fuel economy targets.
Key Opportunities
Aftermarket expansion driven by increased vehicle parc: Advanced replacement solutions and digital sales channels, such as Timken’s enhanced online platform, are capturing a larger aftermarket share.
Collaborative innovation for smart mobility: With OEMs and bearing makers like SKF entering partnerships for next-gen ADAS and autonomous vehicle solutions, the market is set for rapid evolution.
Key Challenges
High initial R&D investment: Companies such as JTEKT Corporation face significant cost barriers in developing advanced sensor-based bearing solutions.
Volatile raw material prices: Fluctuating steel and alloy prices, as encountered by Schaeffler in 2025, have pressured OEMs and suppliers to optimize cost strategies.
Key Restraints
Supply chain disruptions: Ongoing global logistics challenges continue to affect timely delivery of bearing components, impacting US assembly lines in 2025.
Increasing counterfeit products: Federal-Mogul has reported rising cases of counterfeit bearing sales in the aftermarket, undermining market integrity and brand trust.
In 2025, ball bearings are projected to dominate the US automotive bearing market, holding the largest market share at 37%. Roller bearings follow closely with a 28% share, while plain bearings account for 15%. Thrust, mounted bearings, and others comprise the remaining 20%. The widespread use of ball and roller bearings in engines, transmissions, and wheel assemblies is attributed to their high load-carrying capacity, durability, and adaptability. Market leaders such as SKF and Timken are innovating with advanced coatings and improved geometries, enhancing bearing longevity and performance. Plain bearings, though smaller in share, find niche applications for their compactness and reliability, particularly in steering and electrical systems.
US Automotive Bearing Market Share by Application (2025)
Wheel applications capture the largest share of the US automotive bearing market in 2025 at 38%, reflecting the vital role of wheel-end bearings in vehicle safety and performance. Engine and transmission applications comprise 23% and 21% respectively, showcasing demand for high-precision, thermally-stable bearings as OEMs pursue tighter efficiency standards. Steering and electrical applications account for 11% and 4%, while miscellaneous uses represent the remaining 3%. With the rapid adoption of electrified and hybrid vehicles, electrical component bearings, while still a smaller segment, are exhibiting the fastest growth rate, benefiting from investments by companies like NSK and NTN. The increasing complexity of powertrains and safety systems further underscores the importance of robust and innovative bearing solutions.
US Automotive Bearing Market Revenue Trend (2020-2035)
The US automotive bearing market is projected to grow steadily over the forecast period, rising from USD 4,700 Million in 2020 to USD 5,800 Million in 2025, and reaching USD 9,420 Million by 2035. This growth is supported by expanding automobile production, increased EV penetration, and advancements in bearing technology such as integrated sensors and improved sealing mechanisms. Year-on-year increases are expected to be strongest in the mid-2020s, driven by pent-up vehicle demand and major EV launches. However, the rate of growth is expected to moderate after 2030 as market maturity and efficiency gains stabilize demand.
US Automotive Bearing Market YOY Growth Rate (2020-2035)
The year-on-year (YOY) growth rate of the US automotive bearing market is anticipated to fluctuate between 4.8% and 5.2% from 2020 through 2030, peaking at 5.5% in 2026. The heightened demand for innovative bearing solutions in EVs and premium vehicles, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is fueling above-average growth during this period. After 2030, YOY growth is projected to stabilize at around 3.2% as the penetration of next-generation vehicles and digital aftermarket platforms matures. Players remain focused on value-added offerings and cost optimization strategies to maintain profitability and sustain growth in a competitive landscape.
US Automotive Bearing Market Regional Share (2025)
The Midwest region is set to dominate the US automotive bearing market in 2025, accounting for 44% of total revenue. This is largely attributed to the concentration of major automotive manufacturing plants and supplier networks in states such as Michigan and Ohio. The Southern region, benefitting from new OEM investments and emerging EV facilities, holds 27%, while the Western and Northeastern regions account for 16% and 13% respectively. The Midwest’s robust infrastructure and skilled workforce continue to attract bearing manufacturers and OEM collaborations, securing its leading position within the US market. Meanwhile, rapid growth is anticipated in the South, driven by facility expansions and incentive programs.
SKF Group and Timken Company lead the US automotive bearing market in 2025, capturing 19% and 16% market shares respectively. NSK Ltd. and NTN Corporation follow with 12% and 10%, while the remaining share is split among companies such as JTEKT, Schaeffler, Nachi-Fujikoshi, and others. The competitive landscape is shaped by innovation, expansive product portfolios, and strategic OEM alliances. Leading players are leveraging investments in sensor-based and eco-friendly products to differentiate themselves in a market characterized by strict quality requirements and rapid technology shifts
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) represent the largest buyer segment, holding 52% of the US automotive bearing market in 2025. The aftermarket segment follows at 29%, while online, distributors, and retailers make up the remaining 19%. The dominance of OEMs reflects the direct supply relationships and high-volume contracts managed by leading bearing suppliers, who prioritize quality, cost, and timely delivery. However, digitalization and e-commerce channels are enabling growth in aftermarket and online segments, offering consumers a broader selection and easier access to replacement solutions.
June 2024: SKF Group announced its expansion into smart bearing solutions for EVs with a new manufacturing facility in Michigan.
July 2024: Timken Company launched a digital aftermarket sales platform, boosting direct-to-consumer bearing sales.
August 2024: NTN Corporation unveiled an integrated sensor bearing for autonomous mobility platforms at the Detroit Auto Show.
September 2024: NSK Ltd. reported the successful commercialization of lightweight ceramic bearings for US OEMs.
October 2024: Schaeffler Group entered into a strategic partnership with a leading US EV maker to supply next-gen automotive bearings.
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About the Author
Raj K
Senior Market Research Analyst
Raj K is a Senior Market Research Analyst specializing in market research, industry analysis, and business consulting across Automotive & Transportation. Raj K brings a commercially grounded perspective to sectors shaped by changing demand, innovation, and competitive dynamics, helping turn complex market trends into clear strategic insights for business decision-makers. With 10+ years of experience across research, analytics, and strategic advisory roles, Raj K has helped organizations translate data into actionable growth strategies.
