If you want to buy tires, it’s easy to become confused about what kind of tire you need with the variety of sizes, manufacturers, and tire kinds available. Although tires are among the most expensive automotive maintenance items to replace over time, they are essential for both performance and safety. You can get scammed if you are unsure of the type of tires you want. Here are some tips to avoid being scammed when buying tires:
Types of Tire Scams
Scammers are everywhere, and they have come up with different tactics. Here are some tire scams you should be aware of:
- Used Tires: Some sellers will take old, worn-out tires and re-groove them to make them appear new. This scam can lead to dangerous driving conditions because these tires may fail unexpectedly.
- Fake Discounts: When the discount offered is quite outrageous, you must be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. If a price for a set of tires is lower than market value, it may indicate that the tires are not in good condition or that the seller is not reputable.
- Service Scams: Some tire shops may charge for balancing or alignment without performing them. Always ask for a visual confirmation of the work done.
Tips for Avoiding Tire Scams
After identifying the type of tire you want to buy, take the following steps:
- Choose a Reputable Seller: When you want to get a tire, you should buy from a trustworthy vendor. Begin your search by visiting BBB.org to find businesses accredited by the Better Business Bureau. Here, you can check their ratings and read customer reviews. Buy from a tire vendor with a strong reputation and lots of positive feedback. Conducting some research can help you assess whether a company is reliable or engages in questionable business practices.
- Communicate Before Buying: Don’t just buy tires without verifying the source. Before making a purchase, reach out to the vendor either by phone or in person. You can ask questions about tire options, installation processes, and warranty information. You should also pay attention to the level of customer service you receive during this initial interaction, as it can provide insight into how you will be treated during the installation and after your purchase. If you are on a tight budget, you can also ask if they sell tires on credit.
- Be Aware of Additional Fees: Tire purchase and financing can have additional fees. Keep an eye on potential extra costs that may arise beyond the price of the tires. Aside from the cost, you may also have to pay installation fees, disposal charges for your old tires, and taxes on your final bill.
- Inspect Your New Tires: After your new tires are installed, take the time to inspect them thoroughly. Look for any damage signs and ensure the directional tread is correctly aligned on all four tires. After driving a short distance, check the tire pressure for each tire to ensure it matches the specifications indicated on your vehicle’s door jamb. Return to the shop for an inspection if any tire pressures are outside the recommended range.
- Check Out the Tire Warranties: Warranties come with new tire purchases. The warranty information is usually on the tire’s sidewall, where higher tread numbers indicate a longer tire lifespan. This warranty provides credits toward new tires if they wear out before reaching the specified mileage. You can also check if the vendor can sell tires on credit.
- Shop Around for the Best Option: When buying tires, comparing prices from different vendors is better. Factor in the cost, convenience, and the level of customer service provided. You can buy from warehouse clubs, online retailers, tire dealers, car dealerships, and local shops. A local tire shop may be the best choice if you want personalized or unique tires. Warehouse clubs and online sellers often have competitive pricing but might offer a more limited selection. Car dealerships are also convenient but are generally not the most economical option, and they may only stock original equipment tires.
Conclusion
After buying your new tires, do not forget to maintain them continually. If you have been scammed before, be extra careful when you want to buy another tire.
