Among motor vehicle parts companies in the Fortune Most Admired Companies in America list, Goodyear was also judged the best in regard to innovation and the quality of its products and services.

"This recognition by our industry peers is something for which we are extremely proud," said Robert J. Keegan, Goodyear chairman and chief executive officer. "Not only did Goodyear lead our industry category, but we were ranked well ahead of our global tire competitors," he added.

"We are passionate about innovation and quality," he said. "Our associates are innovating across every facet of our business, not just in product development."

The distinction follows the Feb. 22 recognition by The Wall Street Journal for leading shareholder return for the past five years in the automotive category and recent acknowledgement that Goodyear was among the Top 100 Corporate Citizens selected by Corporate Responsibility Officer magazine.

The Fortune Most Admired lists are considered "the definitive report card on corporate reputations." They use a rigorous assessment of industry executives, board directors and securities analysts to determine a company's overall reputation.