Synchrony and Belle Tire Partner on New Credit Card to Help Consumers Manage Automotive Expenses

This year hasn’t been kind to many people’s personal finances. Stock market downturns have shredded retirement accounts and the investment portfolios of consumers trying to offset the effects of inflation. 

Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, the International Monetary Fund’s Chief Economist, said earlier this week that the odds of the U.S. slipping into a recession have increased.

The steady stream of negative economic events in 2025 means that consumers will likely be looking for any help they can find when it comes to bolstering their personal finances — if they aren’t already.

Financial services provider Synchrony has introduced a new solution that may bring financial relief to weary consumers. The company is partnering with Belle Tire to offer a new private label credit card exclusively for customers of Belle Tire. Consumers can use the card to access flexible financing options on products and services offered by Belle Tire.

Founded in Detroit in 1922, Belle Tire operates almost 200 locations throughout the Midwest. The company offers automotive services and an extensive selection of tires. In addition to Michigan, Belle Tire also serves customers through its stores in Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio.

Curtis Howse, Executive Vice President and CEO of Synchrony’s Home and Auto platform, said in a press release announcing the deal that the company’s partnership with Belle Tire is indicative of Synchrony’s commitment to provide accessible financing solutions that help consumers manage costs related to automotive care.

“By integrating our financing tools with Belle Tire’s trusted services, we’re helping customers navigate both routine and unexpected vehicle costs with confidence and ease,” Howse said.

The new private label credit card will enable cardholders to access six months of promotional financing when they make purchases of at least $199. Consumers who make purchases of at least $1,000 with the card will be entitled to 12 months of promotional financing.

The Belle Tire credit card is part of Synchrony’s Car Care network, which “offers a comprehensive solution for managing automotive expenses at more than a million locations nationwide”, according to the press release.

Cardholders can use the new card at auto parts stores and gas stations across the country, in addition to all Belle Tire locations. Consumers can search for businesses that participate in the network via a tool on Synchrony’s website.

Synchrony’s network allows cardholders to manage costs at more than 1 million locations across the U.S.

The private label card exemplifies how credit card companies can leverage partnerships to create value for cardholders. For businesses such as Belle Tire, a private label card can increase loyalty among customers.

Don Barnes III, President of Belle Tire, said in the press release that his company is constantly seeking ways to provide its customers with exceptional experiences, and the partnership may also contribute to increased traffic safety.

“With Synchrony’s proven expertise in consumer financing, our automotive customers will have greater access to convenient payment options, making it easier to keep their vehicles safe and road ready,” Barnes added.