Shopping for tires online can seem daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with tire specifications or exactly what to look for.
But it doesn’t have to be! I’ll tell you everything you need to know to make the best decision when buying tires online.
We’ll explore important tire features like size, brand, and performance, and share tips on how to get the best deal.
Why buy tires online?
First, it’s convenient – you can browse a huge collection of tires from the comfort of your own home. There’s no need to visit multiple stores or deal with pushy salespeople.
Plus, online tire shopping often offers better prices and discounts than local stores, especially when you know where to look.
Tire Specifications: The Key to Finding the Right Tire
The first thing you’ll encounter when buying tires online is a list of specifications.
1. Tire Size
Tire size is probably the most important factor to consider when buying tires. You’ll often see tire sizes written in a format like this: 205/55R16. But what does it mean? Let’s break it down:
205: The width of the tire in millimeters.
55: The aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width.
R: Radial construction (the most common tire type).
16: The diameter of the tire in inches, which must match the size of your vehicle’s rims.
Make sure you choose tires that match your vehicle’s specifications. This information can usually be found on the sidewall of your current tires or in your vehicle’s manual.
2. Load Index and Speed Rating
Tires come with two important ratings: the load index and speed rating. These tell you how much weight a tire can handle and how fast it can safely go. For example, a tire with a load index of 91 can carry 1,356 pounds, while a speed rating of H means the tire can handle speeds up to 130 mph.
When shopping online, be sure to match these ratings with your car requirements.
3. Tire Type: All-Season vs. Winter vs. Summer
Another key factor is choosing the right type of tire. Here’s a quick rundown:
All-Season Tires: These are great for most climates, offering a balance of performance and durability. They are ideal if you live in a region with mild weather year-round.
Winter Tires: Designed for cold temperatures and snowy or icy conditions. They offer superior traction but aren’t ideal for warm weather.
Summer Tires: Perfect for hot climates and dry roads, but they lose performance in colder temperatures.
Be sure to pick the right type based on your driving conditions.
How to Compare Tires Online
Now that you understand the basic specs, it’s time to start comparing tires. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:
1. Use Comparison Tools
Most online tire stores have tools that let you compare different tire models side by side. This will allow you to evaluate the specs, prices, and reviews of different tires before making a purchase.
2. Read Tire Reviews
Customer reviews can give you a lot of insight into the quality and performance of a tire. Look for feedback on things like ride comfort, road noise, and tire longevity. Keep in mind that not every review will be helpful, so focus on those that mention factors important to you (like driving in snow or rain).
3. Check the Tire Warranty
A good warranty can offer peace of mind. Many online retailers provide warranties that cover defects and premature wear. Always check the details to ensure you’re getting the protection you need.
Best Places to Buy Tires Online
Buying tires online has become increasingly popular because of the convenience and potential savings it offers. If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective place to buy tires, you’re in the right place.
Below, I’ll break down some of the best online tire retailers to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re looking for affordable all-season tires, high-performance summer tires, or durable winter tires, these websites will have you covered.
1. Tire Rack
Tire Rack is one of the most well-known and trusted names in the tire industry. It has been around for over 40 years and offers a wide range of tires for all kinds of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUV.
2. Discount Tire Direct
Discount Tire is one of the largest tire retailers in the United States. Discount Tire Direct is its online arm, offering a wide variety of tires, including all-season tires, performance tires, and winter tires.
3. Amazon
Amazon is an obvious choice for buying nearly anything—and tires are no exception. Though Amazon isn’t a specialized tire retailer, they have a vast selection, and it’s easy to compare prices and find tire brands.
4. Walmart Tires
Walmart has been expanding its tire offerings and is a solid option for online tire shopping. It provides a range of affordable tires for everyday vehicles and comes with the benefit of being able to get tires installed at local Walmart Auto Care Centers.
5. TireBuyer
TireBuyer is another top contender when it comes to buying tires online. It offers a large selection of tires and works with hundreds of local installers to get your tires put on your vehicle.
Tire Shipping and Installation
When shopping for tires online, don’t forget to factor in shipping and installation. Some tire retailers offer free shipping, while others may charge extra depending on your location.
Many online stores also partner with local shops for tire installation services. You can often have the tires shipped directly to the shop for installation, saving you time and hassle.
Mobile Tire Fitting Services
A growing trend is mobile tire fitting, where professionals come to your home or work to install the tires for you. This is a great option if you’re short on time or simply don’t want to deal with the hassle of going to a shop.
Getting the Best Tire Deals Online
Buying online is a smart way to go. Not only does it offer the convenience of shopping from home, but it also opens the door to some great deals and discounts. With so many tire retailers online, finding the best tire deal can sometimes feel like finding a needle in a haystack.
I’ll show you how to find the best tire deals online and make sure you’re getting great value for your money.
1. Know What You Need Before You Shop
The first step in finding the best tire deals online is knowing exactly what you need. Tire shopping can be overwhelming if you don’t have a clear idea of the specifications you’re looking for. Here’s what you should do before you start browsing:
Understand Tire Specifications:
Tire Size: This is the most important factor. Each vehicle requires specific tire sizes, so check your current tires or consult your vehicle manual to find the correct size.
Tire Type: Decide whether you need all-season tires, winter tires, or performance tires based on your driving conditions.
Load Index & Speed Rating: These indicate how much weight the tire can carry and how fast it can handle, respectively. Be sure to match these with your vehicle’s needs.
Knowing your tire requirements will prevent you from wasting time on deals that don’t suit your car, and it’ll help you narrow down your search.
2. Look for Discounts, Promotions, and Sales
One of the easiest ways to find the best tire deals online is by keeping an eye out for discounts and promotions. Many online retailers offer special deals, especially during certain times of the year. Here’s how to find these deals:
Sign Up for Newsletters:
Online retailers often send out newsletters with exclusive discounts or early access to sales. Signing up for these emails can help you stay ahead of promotions.
Look for Seasonal Sales:
Tire retailers frequently have seasonal sales, especially during the end of winter or fall when they’re trying to clear out old stock.
Use Promo Codes:
Before making your purchase, search for promo codes that can help you save money. Websites like RetailMeNot and Honey often have valid discount codes for tire purchases.
Flash Sales:
Some online retailers have flash sales that offer steep discounts for a limited time. Keep an eye on your favorite tire sites or set up alerts to take advantage of these time-sensitive deals.
3. Take Advantage of Rebates and Manufacturer Offers
Many tire manufacturers offer rebates on certain tire models or when purchasing a full set of four tires. These rebates can be a significant way to save money. Here’s how you can take advantage of them:
Manufacturer Rebates:
Tire manufacturers like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear frequently offer rebates that allow you to save anywhere from $40 to $100 on your purchase. Keep an eye out for these offers, and check if your retailer is offering them.
Full Set Discounts:
Some tire manufacturers offer a discount when you buy a full set of tires, which can often result in savings of up to $100 or more.
Check the manufacturer’s website or the retailer’s page for any ongoing rebate programs or discounts before purchasing. Make sure to follow the instructions on how to claim the rebate, as some may require submitting proof of purchase.
4. Compare Prices Across Multiple Retailers
It’s tempting to just go with the first deal you see, but comparing prices across several online tire stores can help you get the best deal. Here’s how to do it:
Use Tire Comparison Websites:
Websites like Tire Rack or TireBuyer allow you to compare tire prices, reviews, and shipping costs all in one place. These comparison sites make it easy to see which retailer offers the best price for the specific tire you’re looking for.
Factor in Extra Costs:
While one retailer might have a lower price for the tire, they may charge higher shipping fees or installation costs. Be sure to factor in shipping and installation fees when comparing prices to get the true cost of the tire.
5. Buy in Bulk or Purchase All Four Tires at Once
Buying a full set of tires rather than replacing just one can often save you more money in the long run. Many online tire stores offer bulk discounts or special pricing if you purchase a full set of four tires.
Buy Four Tires: Many online retailers offer discounts for buying a full set of four tires, especially if you’re replacing all four at once. Some stores may also offer free installation when purchasing four tires.
Package Deals: Look for tire deals that bundle installation and other services like balancing or tire warranties. These packages can offer substantial savings over purchasing items individually.
How do I know if I’m getting the right tire size for my car?
Check your vehicle’s manual or the sidewall of your current tires to find the right size. The tire size will be printed in a format like 205/55R16, which includes the width, aspect ratio, and diameter. Make sure to match these specifications when shopping online.
Can I install tires myself?
If you have the right tools and experience, you can install tires yourself. However, many people prefer to have tires professionally installed for safety and convenience. Look for tire stores that offer installation services or mobile tire fitting options.
Is it safe to buy tires online?
Yes, buying tires online is safe as long as you shop from reputable retailers. Make sure to read customer reviews, check warranties, and compare prices before making your purchase.