How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Car

Longevity depends on the treadwear rating, warranty, and how you drive. You’ll find a treadwear rating stamped on the sidewall—higher numbers typically mean longer life. Many tires come with a mileage warranty, often between 50,000 and 80,000 miles.

• Treadwear ratings over 600 = long life expectancy.
• Rotate tires regularly to avoid uneven wear.
• If you’re comparing tires on sale, check the warranty—it may vary even between models from the same brand.

Tire prices range from $100 to over $300 per tire, depending on brand, category, and size. A typical set of four all-season tires for a sedan might land between $400–$800 installed. Performance or specialty tires can push well beyond that.

• Don’t forget mounting, balancing, and disposal fees.
• Online retailers may show tires on sale but exclude installation.
• Big-box stores and warehouse clubs often bundle services.

Each tire’s sidewall includes a sequence like 225/60R17 99H. Here’s what that means:

• 225: Tire width in millimeters
• 60: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as % of width)
• R17: Radial construction, 17-inch wheel
• 99H: Load index and speed rating

These numbers must match your car’s specifications—or an approved alternative—when replacing tires. You’ll find this info in the owner’s manual, the driver-side door sticker, or existing tires.

Replacing means buying new tires that match your current ones in size and capability—usually the safest and most cost-effective option. Upgrading could mean:

• Moving to a high-performance version in the same size
• Switching to a more aggressive tread design for off-road or snow
• Changing tire and wheel sizes (which requires more caution)

If you’re upgrading, make sure your new tires won’t rub against suspension or body panels, and that they’re rated for your car’s load and speed.

Run-flat tires allow limited driving even after a puncture—usually 50 miles at reduced speed. Some newer cars, especially luxury models, come equipped with them from the factory.

• Pros: You don’t need to change a flat on the roadside.
• Cons: They ride firmer, cost more, and have fewer options available.
• Swapping to conventional tires may require a spare or repair kit if your car doesn’t include one.

If you find run-flat tires on sale, check that they’re compatible with your vehicle’s wheel and TPMS setup.

Most major retailers rotate promotions throughout the year. Look for seasonal sales, manufacturer rebates, and bundle offers from:

• Tire Rack
• Discount Tire
• Costco
• Canadian Tire

Spring and fall are peak buying seasons—especially for winter tires, which tend to go on sale in early fall. Shopping online can give you access to more brands and sizes, but be sure to factor in shipping and installation costs.

Most vehicles use a square setup—same size on all four corners. But some performance or luxury models come with a staggered setup (wider rear tires). If that’s your case:

• Always match front and rear sizes to original spec unless modifying intentionally.
• Never mix tread types across axles.
• Uneven setups can affect traction control and stability if not installed correctly.

Before buying discounted tires or sale bundles, double-check sizing for both front and rear wheels.

There’s more to tire age than tread depth. Even with minimal use, rubber compounds break down over time. You should replace tires when:

• Tread depth falls below 2/32” (or 4/32” for winter tires)
• Cracks, sidewall bulges, or dry rot appea
• Tires are 6+ years old, even with good tread

Shopping during shoulder seasons—spring and fall—often means better tire sales and more inventory.

Proper maintenance can stretch tire life and improve safety. Here’s what matters most:

• Rotate tires every 5,000–8,000 miles.
• Check alignment if you notice uneven wear.
• Maintain tire pressure—under- or over-inflation shortens lifespan.
• Don’t ignore tire load limits or use mismatched sets.

Many drivers buy tires on sale and then lose mileage value by skipping basic maintenance—routine care pays off.