The used tire business is booming. If you need to replace your spare or donut, then going used is a great way to save money. Before you think you can buy just any spare tire, there are things to consider. Size, load capacity, and mileage should be evaluation points, but you also need to consider tire age when going used. In the article below I’ll discuss where to find second hand spare tires, how to evaluate them, and different types of spares. I’ll also share my experience with the shop that sells used spare tires near me.

Map of Used Spare Tires Near Me

For “Used Spare Tires Near Me” or “Used Donut Tires Near Me”, see below for locations…

Where I Find Used Spare Tires Near Me

There are several places I like to look for used spare tires. All of these are great local options to find a spare tire or donut tire in your area. Of course you aren’t just limited to spares, you can find used full size replacement tires at all of these options as well.

Local Used Tire Business

Local used tire businesses often have a wide selection with varying quality grades. You can often find a decent spare at these places that has some good tread still on it. The downside is that you may pay a bit extra because you are dealing with a seller who needs to make a profit. All and all on average a spare will run you around $20 -$25 at one of these shops.

Auto Salvage Yards

Salvage yards are great if you are willing to go and find what you need yourself. You can walk the yard, find a vehicle of the same make and model, and check to see if the spare is still in it. I have found spares that look like they were never used. In my experience buying used spare tires near me, auto salvages charge $15 – $20.

SellMyTires.com

SellMyTires.com is a website I use frequently. You can check to see if anyone in your local area is selling tires. It’s kind of like a Craigslist, but ONLY for people selling tires second hand. The prices will vary here, however the quality you can find is often premium.

Craigslist

Craigslist is another place I like to check. You should specifically check the “For Sale” section and the “Auto Parts” category.  Similar to SellMyTires.com you can find good quality and good deals. It’s just that since it’s not a specialized tire site, you tend to have less options.

What Kind of Used Spare Tires Can You Find

There are a variety of types of spare tires. This includes Full-Size Matching, Full-Size Non-Matching, Full-Size Temporary Spare, Compact Temporary, and Folding Temporary. Different tire types take up space of different dimensions in your trunk. So choosing the type for your needs is important. It’s not just the type of spare that you need to be concerned with it is the size and specs as well. You wouldn’t put a donut for a compact Kia on a Ford Super Duty right?

In addition to finding a spare you can also find folks who sell the whole kit. For example a spare tire, lug wrench, and a jack.

Evaluating a Spare Tire For Safety

Make no mistake about it, just because this is a “spare” it doesn’t mean it can compromise on safety. You should evaluate your spare the same way you would your regular every day driving tires.

For the most part if I asked anyone, how would you evaluate a used tire for safety…the answer is always tread depth. While tread depth is critically important and will tell you how much mileage is left on a tire, it isn’t the only thing to consider. You must also check the age, structure, and quality of the casing.

Consider the following when inspecting a used spare tire:.

• Tread Depth – Measure the tread depth, It needs to be more then 4/32.
• Exposed Chords – Check for metal poking through the sidewall.
• Chunking Beads – Where the rim meets the tire, check for missing chunks of rubber.
• Separated Belts – Lay the tire flat, rub your hand circular around the sidewall and feel for waviness.
• Aging – Check the DOT on the sidewall and ensure the tire is less then six years old.
• Improper Repairs – Punctures, plugs, patches are all safety issues. Don’t be spare with repairs.
• Uneven Treadwear – Look for excessive wearing in the middle of the tread and/or where the tread meets the sidewall.

For more on inspecting a tire for safety, read here. You can also  get the guidance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

A Safety Note About Spare Tires and Aging…

One particular safety item of note for a spare tire is age. As tires age, the rubber begins to break down and dry rot. This happens around the 10 year mark and why you should never buy a tire older then 6 years.

Spare tires may sit in a trunk for a long long time and never get used. When you inspect it, you often look at the tread wear and think…it’s never been used and it’s in great condition. You must look at the age on the sidewall. Imagine you purchase it, put it in your trunk, and in 2 years when you need it in an emergency, it isn’t any good.

Sizing The Tire

Vehicles of different classes have different needs for tires. The spare tire needs to meet the same specifications for load and size as your other four tires. You can find your tire spec information in your drivers manual. Additionally you can look up your vehicle online to check the specs or check the sticker on the inside of the drivers side door jam. You should never get a spare tire that doesn’t meet your vehicles minimum requirements.

Another consideration you should think about is storage. If you plan on putting it in your trunk make sure it fits. If your trunk has a spare tire compartment, measure it before you purchase it.

Used Spare Tires Near Me – Conclusion

Getting a second hand spare tire is a great way to save money. You can find them for cheap in many circumstances depending on where you go. Before you purchase a used spare tire, it is critically important to give it a good safety inspection. Beyond tread depth, you need to check all of the factors. If the tire doesn’t meet the standards, don’t ever comprimise safety for saving money. This is what I have learned from shops that sell used spare tires near me.