The Best Tire Shops

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The average tire lasts just a few years. Additionally, some climates require using winter tires to stay safe during harsher weather. This means you can expect to new tires periodically throughout your life. Whether you need new tires or a tire repair, it’s essential to know what to expect before visiting a tire shop. Having a basic foundation of tire knowledge can help you make more informed purchasing decisions and be better prepared for future costs.


How do I buy tires?

You can buy tires online or at a local store. When buying tires online, you’ll need to know the type and size required for your vehicle. If you’re uncertain about what tires to buy, it's better to visit a local tire shop where you can get help determining the type and size of tires you need.


How often should you buy new tires?

Tires typically last between four and five years or 60,000 to 75,000 miles. However, it’s important to note that this can vary significantly. Factors that can impact how long your tires last include:


• The tire manufacturer
• The vehicle
• Your driving style
• Local weather
• Whether routine maintenance is performed

When should you buy new tires for your car?

When the tread on your tires gets worn down, your car may not handle well in weather conditions such as rain and snow. Additionally, worn tires can cause problems with other parts of your vehicle. If you're unsure about the tread condition, you can have it checked at a tire shop. 


What should I look for when buying tires?

With so many options available, choosing new tires can seem overwhelming. When you’re shopping for tires, you’ll want to look for options within your budget that suit the local climate and the type of car you own. You should also consider how much driving you do and the tires' expected life span.

Is it better to buy tires from a dealer?

Unless there's a great promotion going on, a dealership typically charges a premium for tires. So, generally speaking, you shouldn’t buy your tires from a dealer. However, do your research and contact both a dealership and a tire shop to compare pricing on the tires you need for your vehicle.

When is the best time to buy tires?

According to experts, April and October are the best months to buy tires. April is just before the summer travel season, so many stores offer promotions in anticipation of this upcoming demand. A second round of promotions occurs in October, when cold weather is approaching and people need to buy winter tires.


What are the most common types of tires?

The most common tire types are:


• All-season tires for year-round use.
• Touring tires that offer a smoother ride and typically have a longer-lasting tread.
• Summer tires meant for warm weather use.
• All-terrain tires built for off-road driving.
• Winter tires designed for driving in snowy or icy conditions.

What tires give the smoothest ride?

If you’re interested in a smooth ride, consider investing in touring tires. High-performance touring tires offer better handling, traction, and longer tread wear. Not only will touring tires give you a more comfortable ride, but they should also last longer than other types of tires. 


Do new tires ride rough?

New tires don’t necessarily ride “rough,” but they’ll feel different. New tires have more tread, so you shouldn’t feel the road as much. Also, tires are coated with a release lubricant to prevent them from sticking to their molds during the manufacturing process. It’s estimated that it takes about 500 miles before this lubricant wears off.


When you get new tires do you need an alignment?

An alignment is usually optional when you get new tires, but it’s highly recommended. An alignment can ensure that your tires are lined up correctly with each other and the road. In addition, many places that sell tires offer a free alignment when you purchase a set of tires.


Who buys used tires?

Many people who don’t want to invest in new tires will purchase used tires. New tires aren’t necessary for everyone, especially those who don’t think they’ll keep their car for several years. You can sell your used tires by advertising on Craigslist or Facebook, or possibly at a local mechanic shop or used car dealership.


How old should used tires be when you buy them?

You need to be very careful when purchasing used tires. It’s recommended you check the original manufacture date and avoid tires more than a year old. Aged tires have been the cause of fatal car accidents before, so buying ones more than a year old isn't worth the safety risk.


Should I buy winter tires?

If you live in an area where ice, hail, or snow is expected, winter tires are definitely worth the investment. All season and summer tires can make your vehicle handle poorly in harsh weather, which can put you and your passengers in danger. Winter tires have more grip to help keep you safer on the road.

Can you buy one tire?

You can replace one tire at a time. However, to keep your vehicle operating smoothly and safely, you’ll want to ensure that all four of your tires have similar amounts of tread. It's also worth noting that many tire shops offer a discount when you buy a full set of tires.


How do I know what size tire chains to buy?

To determine the right chain size:


• Find the set of letters and numbers on the side of your tires.
• Note the first three numbers.
• Note the two digits after the dash and the two numbers after the R.
• Take this number to a local tire shop.