How to Get the Most Out of Your Tires 

Tires may not be the most glamorous part of your vehicle, but they’re certainly one of the most important. Maintaining healthy tires can save you money on damage to other parts of your vehicle, keep you from ending up on the side of the road with a blown tire, and limit how often you need a pricy tire change. 

There are a few basic trips, ticks, and maintenance habits you can do to get the absolute most out of your tires, and limit the amount you have to spend on them.

Shop Around 

Tire prices differ dramatically, depending on where you buy them. Certain tire dealers get good prices on specific tire sizes, but worse deals on others. When it’s time to have your tires replaced, give a few different tire stores a call to see who can give you the best prices on the tires you’re looking for. 
You can always call your local car dealer as well, as they sometimes will have good deals on certain tires. For the most part, however, independent tire dealers will almost always have better prices than dealerships. 

Always Get the Right Tire

It can be tempting to get a slightly different tire size or speed rating when you buy tires. Sometimes you can save a small chunk of money if you’re willing to not get exactly what you’re looking for.

Don’t give in to small price cuts, however. If you don’t get the exact size and speed rating specified in your owner’s manual, your warranty can be voided, and often your insurance policy can be, as well. You may save $50 in the short run, but it could cost you thousands in the future. 

Get Frequent Rotations and Alignments 

Getting your tires rotated and aligned is an easy and affordable part of maintenance, and it can save you large sums of money. Most tire centers will perform free rotations if you had your tires changed there, and you should always take advantage of this. Having your tires rotated every 10,000 miles or so will keep them from wearing out quickly, and minimize the amount you have to spend on new rubber. 

You don’t necessarily need to get your tires aligned as frequently, though it’s a good idea to have an alignment when you get tires rotated. If you don’t want to have them aligned that frequently, once a year will suffice. Regular alignments can keep your car from needing serious and costly repairs. 

Check the Air Pressure Often

Checking the air pressure in your tires is an incredibly easy way to potentially save a lot of money. At least once a week, perform a visual inspection to make sure your tires look properly inflated. If they ever appear under or over-inflated, use a tire pressure gauge to check them. Keeping your tires at the proper air pressure not only increases their lifespan, but takes stress off of other parts of your vehicle as well.

All of these tricks and tips are easy to implement, and can save you a lot of money on your tires. Take care of your tires, and you’ll take care of your car, and your wallet.