How To Shop For Tires

By: W Roberts

Break Studios Contributing Writer

When tires are worn or damaged you have to know how to shop for tires. Avoid going in off the street with no idea about what set of tires you want. Buying tires on the spot is a sure way to end up paying more than you need. The tires you need are most likely the same size you have on the vehicle now, unless you are looking for something like mud-tires for a 4x4 or racing tires. The tire size is marked on the side of the tire.

  1. Look for online stores. Knowing either your vehicle model, or the specific tire size you want, look through the selections to see reviews of the tires.
  2. Tires have an expected distance life. Some may be 40,000 mile tires while others are 80,000. The higher the expected life, the better the tire which usually comes with a higher price.
  3. Call local shops once you know which tire you want, or order from online stores and have local shops do the installation. Tires are priced with just the price of the tire alone. Installation charges are usually an additional per tire charge.
  4. Some stores offer road hazard protection plans where they replace the tire if it has been damaged while still under warranty. You may have an emergency roadside service that also offers a similar protection plan so look at what options you may already have for tire protection.
  5. Shop around and always look for coupons. Manufacturers may also have a deal going on. Check their web sites and you may find a "buy 3 tires get 1 free" deal or cash-back options.
     
Posted on: Apr. 01, 2010