How to Save Money on Car Tires

Save on tires with our top tips

Tires typically go on sale in October to get people ready for winter, and again in April to prepare for summer road trips. No matter what time of year you’re shopping, we’ve got some great tips to help save you money, so you can get on down the road.

1. Compare Prices and Shop Online

Start with the basics by figuring out what size and type of tires you need. You can usually find the correct tire size on the inside of the driver’s side door. Pay attention to the sizing for front and rear tires, because they may be different.

Next, decide which type of tire to buy based on where you live. For the average car, all-season tires are a solid option to keep you rolling all year long. If you live in an area with a lot of snow and ice, you might want to consider two sets of tires: one for the winter and one for the summer.

Once you know exactly what you’re shopping for, let your fingers do the walking. Compare prices online to find the best discounts. You’ll have a huge selection to choose from and can easily compare prices across different retailers. Online websites like TireBuyer offer hundreds of tires and almost always have great coupons to reduce the price by as much as 10% or more. The only catch with getting your tires online is that you’ll have to find a local tire shop to install them. But, our next tip can help.

2. Investigate Installation Charges

Buying a new set of tires always comes with additional charges tacked on, like the cost of actually installing them. It’s a good idea to know ahead of time what installation can be.

There are some economical choices to install tires. If you prefer to shop at warehouses or special tire stores, look for installation specials, or you may pay as much as an additional $5 per tire.

3. Focus on Freebies

Not all tire retailers offer the same services when they install your new tires. When shopping around, consider the perks each retailer might include in your total price.

For example, Sam’s Club includes a number of benefits with installation. For the $20 per tire installation fee, you’ll also get tire balancing, rotation, 24-hour roadside assistance, road hazard protection, new valve stems and disposal of your old tires. On top of that, you’ll also get free flat repair with your Sam’s Club membership – no tire purchase required.

4. Use Coupons

Costco may not always have the lowest prices on tires, but they almost always have some of the most competitive coupons. Every month, the warehouse store has a special sale running that can save you hundreds.

Right now, Costco has a coupon for $150 off a set of four Michelin tires or $110 off four BF Goodrich tires. Shop online, choose your tires and have them shipped for free to your closest store for installation.

Make sure you shop early. Costco’s deals are so popular, eligible tires sell out fast. And, check out tire manufacturers’ websites to see if you qualify for additional rebates.

If you’re interested in learning about more great ways to save at Costco, read our guide to unlocking all of Costco’s savings secrets.

5. Maintain Your Tires

The best way to prolong the life of your tires (and save yourself money in the long run) is to maintain the set you have now. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and rotated regularly, so they don’t wear out before they should.

With these money-saving tips, you can drive off into the sunset feeling safe and satisfied with your new wheels. You’ll know you found the right tires for your car at just the right price.