If you’re looking for a great deal on used tires, several online retailers can offer you exactly what you’re looking for. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the best sites to buy used tires online so that you can get the best possible price on your next set of wheels.
10 Things Consider Before You Buy Used Tires Online
When it comes to buying used tires, there are a few things that you’ll want to keep in mind. There are a lot of companies selling used tires online, but some of them are not good.
Here is what you should consider before ordering them from a company online.
The Company Has a Through Inspection Process
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that the tires you’re considering are in good condition. Since you are buying them online you need to know that the company is inspecting the tires for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bald spots, or excessive tread wear.
Some companies inspect tires 2x. First, they undergo an inspection before they enter the inventory and then a second inspection when you order them.
Their Treadwear and Condition Claims are Trustworthy
Most sellers will estimate how much treadwear remains on the tire. Some companies overestimate the amount to receive a higher price. I have seen several instances where a tire is shown to be 60% treadwear remaining online and then measuring with my tread depth tool at home, it’s closer to 45%.
The same can be said about the condition. The company’s claims about the condition of the tire should be accurate. If you order a tire and it comes with a patch on it and it wasn’t listed in the condition online, that is a problem.
To better establish trust, you should thoroughly read reviews of companies before you order used tires from them. You can also check consumer reports and the Better Business Bureau.
They Have a Wide Selection of Tire brands
You’ll want to make sure that the company you’re considering has a wide selection of used tires so that you can find the perfect set for your needs. This goes beyond finding the top name brands like Michelin, Pirelli, Continental, and Goodyear.
You should also have choices like Falken, Toyo, Uni-Royal, Cooper, etc. This helps with getting your price, but also widens your ability to find the right tire. When buying used it is very difficult to match sets or the tires you currently have mounted. More selection can help you do that.
Ability to Search By Tire Size or Year, Make, and Model of the Vehicle
The tires you buy must be the right size for your vehicle. Companies that have websites that allow you to search for specific tire sizes or by your year, make, and model make the process easier to find what you need.
The last thing you want to do is order the incorrect tire size, which can’t be used on your vehicle. This is even more complicated by a company’s return policy.
A Good Return Policy
When you’re buying used tires, there is always a risk that they might not be as described. This is why it’s important to make sure that the company you’re considering has a good return policy.
The policy should allow you to return the tires if they’re not as described. It should also allow you to return the tires if they don’t fit your vehicle. You want a process that has no hassle returns. If you aren’t happy you should be able to return the product within a reasonable amount of time without any pushback.
Some companies will only allow you to return the tires if they’re defective. Others will charge a restocking fee. You’ll want to avoid companies with these policies.
Prices are Competitive
Of course, you’ll also want to make sure that you’re getting a good price on the used tires you’re considering. I’m not referring to the lowest-cost prices either. I simply mean competitive fair pricing.
The best online companies, don’t always have the absolute cheapest tires. They may need to charge a bit more due to high-quality storage and labor for a thorough inspection process. I would rather pay a few bucks more for a better quality tire from a company I can trust.
High-Quality Storage Facilities
The best companies use indoor temperature-controlled facilities to store their inventory. Since tires can degrade when exposed to sun, heat, cold, and other elements, how the company stores them is important.
A company that stores its tires outside, is almost no different than buying tires from a junkyard. Even if they have a great upfront inspection process, it’s all for naught if the tires are stored properly.
If they don’t explicitly state on their website how the tires are stored, check on Youtube. Some companies post videos of their facilities to add a layer of transparency to their sales process.
They Have Free Shipping
Since tires are heavy, finding free shipping can significantly reduce your costs. Not all companies offer free shipping rates and some only offer free shipping when you spend a certain amount.
Warranties & Guarantees
The secondary tire market doesn’t have a good reputation when it comes to warranties and guarantees. However, some online used tire retailers are providing them when certain order criteria are met.
At a minimum, you should try to look for a 60-day money-back guarantee. 90 days would be even better.
Multiple Ways to Pay
Having many options these days may not seem like a big deal. There are credit cards, Paypal, Stripe, etc. But what about financing? Can you buy now and pay later? What financing rates can you get? Do they offer 0% interest for a certain period?
Things to Consider Before You Buy Used Tires Online – Conclusion
There are a lot of things to consider before you order used tires online. The best companies have a wide selection of tire brands, the ability to search by tire size or year, make, and model of the vehicle, and a good return policy. Prices are competitive and the company has high-quality storage facilities. They also offer free shipping and warranties or guarantees. While used tire shops are greta there are top tire store brands like Mavis and les Schwab who carry limited amounts of used tires in select locations.
When you’re considering used tires, be sure to keep these things in mind. Doing so will help you find the best company to buy from and get the most for your money.