Saving On Tire Costs |
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Levi Quinn (SubmitYOURArticle.com)
May 16, 2011
http://www.autoinsuranceratesdirect.com
Tires are one of the most important safety features on your car. They help protect you and your car from worn road damage, unsavory weather conditions and a host of other possibilities. This is exactly why tires should be replaced every five years, 50,000 miles or when they begin to show excessive wear and tear. Although you're probably reluctant to take the mechanic's advice on replacing your tires, you should shop around or get a second opinion, otherwise you run the risk the putting yourself in harm's way. Obviously, the reason everyone dreads hearing that they need new tires is because of the high costs associated with this necessary repair. Below are some tips to help you save money when the time calls for replacing your tires.
1. Shop around. Just because the mechanic at Meineke tells you that you need new tires, does not mean you have to purchase them there. You can find out your car's tire size by locating it on side of your current tires. It should show you three numbers; tire width, aspect ratio and wheel diameter. Now you can use these numbers to shop around at different stores, online and even used parts stores. Remember to invest in tires that will get you through tough situations, especially if you live in a harsh weather climate.
2. Buy an entire set. Yes, even though you're scared of the total cost, you should invest in a complete and new set. This prevents against un-even wear and tear in the future and thus, cuts down on trips to see the mechanic.
3. Rotate Tires. Rotating your tires every 10,000 miles ensures that your tires wear as evenly as possible. Again, un-even tire wear will result in more maintenance trips. If you can handle a lug wrench, you may be able to rotate tires yourself.
4. Keep your car aligned. If you've ever let your hands go off the wheel or held it with a loose grip and noticed your car pulls to one side, your car is out of alignment. Re-aligning your car is a quick and easy process and will drastically improve your tire's tread life.
5. Sell those old tires. It actually may cost you money to dispose of your old rubber. In order to avoid an upwards cost of $5 per tire, you can choose to sell or give away your old tires. This all depends on the shape of the existing tires and the amount of tread left. Otherwise, plan on lugging them to the good ole' junkyard.
Here is another tip to keep in mind, just because you can afford a certain car doesn't mean you can afford the maintenance costs associated with it. Yes, getting new tires is usually an expensive venture and it is something you should be prepared for. Remember, you don't want to skimp out on buying the cheapest tires or not replacing them at all, just because you can't afford to. After all, few parts of your car are as important to safety, comfort and fuel economy as your tires.
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