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Buying Used Tires

SAN FRANCISCO - APRIL 29:  The Goodyear Tire l...
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Buying used tires can be a risky business. You need to be very cautious and careful to make sure that you and your loved ones are as safe as possible while riding in your vehicle. As long as you do your research, and are ready to go to a few places, if need be, you could easily be saving some serious cash. It is always a good idea to buy tires in person, especially if you are considering buying used tires. This is especially important for the used variety. You will need to purchase a tread gauge to measure the treads accurately all along the tire.


The first thing that you need to inspect on the tire in question is the wear. Make sure that the wear, if any, is even and not bumpy. Make sure that the tire looks round all the way around, and not flatter on one side. If it has uneven wear, it will not seal properly and you will find yourself in the tire market again, probably sooner than you would have liked.

Next, check the interior walls of the tire to see if any repairs are evident. If the tire has more than one repair on the inside, buy a different tire. Next, you should use your tread gauge that I mentioned before to measure the tread around several points on the tire. You can also use a penny for this purpose, if you do not have a tread gauge. Turn the penny upside down and insert it into the tread. The tread should come to Lincoln’s head. If it doesn’t, buy a different tire.

If it is at all possible, get four tires with the same tread pattern. Some people believe that it doesn’t matter, but it will make your car ride smoother, and your ‘new’ used tires will last longer. The tread will wear more evenly. Also check the sides walls of the tires. While you can not expect them to look brand new, you can tell if it has any distress, such as puncture marks or signs that its been rubbed against the curb one too many times.

You can find affordable used tires at many mechanics and auto shops or online at Cheap Tires for Sale. They can often be priced up to 80% off what would be considered normal retail prices. Just make sure that you know what to look for, and be ready to ask lots of questions, and you could be in for a good bargain!

The best source for new and used tires for sale.