Have you ever been stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire? Or fishtailed on wet blacktop thanks to bald tires? Keeping your tires in good condition is essential for your safety and allows for optimal vehicle performance. Since buying new tires can be a pricy investment, here are a few ways you can score a good deal.
Tire Manufacturer Rebates
One easy way to save money is to shop for tires when a manufacturer is offering a rebate. The advantage of rebates is that since tire companies provide these, you can go to any installation shop of your choice and inquire about the bonus. Some rebates may require you purchase a set of two or four tires, while some might be available for a single tire if you just need to replace a flat. Popular rebates include getting cashback and receiving a prepaid credit card that can significantly reduce your overall expenses.
Compare Prices and Included Features
When you’re looking for a new set of tires, an easy way to check prices is to call local stores and ask about the cost of your desired tires. Beware that every tire store may quote their fees differently. Each of the following items may be included in the quoted price or might be billed separately.
- Installation
- Balancing
- Disposal of old tires
- Filling the tires with nitrogen instead of compressed air
- Roadside service
- Free flat repair
- Tire sensor servicing
- Lifetime rotation plans
When calling for a price quote, be sure to ask about what the cost includes and how much any extra services may run.
Annual Sales
If your need for tires isn’t immediate, ask your local stores about annual sales. It’s not uncommon for tire companies to have a blowout sale each year as they clear out the past year’s inventory. Another popular time for fantastic sales is on Black Friday, so if you are looking for new tires before winter, you might be able to grab a good deal on this popular shopping day.
Warranties
Do you know that tires have a warranty? If you aren’t familiar with this, many manufacturers offer a guarantee on the craftsmanship of their tires. This means if you get a flat or other tire problem within a specific time or distance driven, the tire may be repaired or replaced for free. These warranties vary with each manufacturer, but the introductory price always includes the guarantee. Consider comparing the warranties when looking for a good deal. A tire with a short warranty may only be slightly cheaper than one with a lifetime warranty, which means the somewhat more expensive tire may be a much better deal in the long term.
There are many ways to get a new set of tires for a great price. Some options include looking for sales and rebates offered by your local shops, comparing what’s included in the basic price, and seeking out the best warranty. By following these steps, you can choose the best deal for yourself.