What Should I Consider When Buying Used Tires?

When the household budget will not allow the purchase of a new set of tires, looking into purchasing a used set of car tires is a good idea. The good news is that it is possible to buy good quality used tires if you simply know what to look for and what questions to ask. You should focus on the tread, general condition, and cost for each tire in the set.

The tread on any set of auto tires is extremely important. Since new tires tend to have a full and unblemished amount of tread, most people give this aspect little attention other than possibly considering the design of the tread. However, with used tires, you want to focus less on the design and more on the amount of tread that remains on each tire in the set. Many municipalities have guidelines in place for the depth of tread that is considered safe on local roads. Know what that depth is and do not settle for anything less.

Along with making sure there is sufficient tread on the tire, also pay attention to the evenness of wear to the tread on each tire in the set. Avoid used tires where the tread is deeper at some points and noticeably thinner in others. Go for vehicle tires where the wear on the tread is even. You will be much more satisfied with both the performance and the life of tires with even tread than with tires with uneven tire tread.

While some people will tell you that it is okay to run used tires with different tread patterns, don’t believe it. Your ride will be smoother and the wear on the tires will be more even over time if you go with four tires that have the same tread pattern. Unless money is so tight that you have to go with odd treads, do yourself a favor and make sure they all match in terms of the tread.

Along with the tread, take a look at the sides of the tires. Make sure the sidewalls appear sturdy and there are no signs of puncture marks or other indications that the surface of the tire has been compromised in some manner. While you cannot reasonably expect the sidewalls to look brand new, it is not out of the question to obtain used tires that have obviously been maintained properly. This will mean that you are much more likely to get excellent service from the pre-owned tires.

There is the chance that someone will tell you that going with recapped tires is a better option than used tires. While there are many recapped tires that are of excellent quality, it is important to remember that recaps essentially have a layer that is bound to the surface of a tire. They will hold up well in many different types of road conditions. However, a set of used tires with plenty of tread left will protect you from the small chance of the recapping coming loose while operating the vehicle.

Keep in mind that many garages and tire retailers keep a selection of good quality used tires on hand. Many of these are tires that were traded in when customers purchased new sets of tires. The vendor will often hold onto tires that have a significant amount of tread on them and offer them for sale at prices that are as much as eighty percent less than new tires. Always ask to see which tires are available in the size you need. There is a good chance you will see something that is ideal for your needs as well as within your budget to purchase.