TIRE BASICS

When is the Best Time to Buy Tires

Sometimes it can be hard to tell if it’s time to buy new tires. However, a few simple steps can help you know if it’s time for a change. Explore some frequent questions below that may help you understand if you need new tires.

How Long Do Tires Last?

Tire wear varies based on many conditions. At minimum, it’s a good idea to have them checked every year by a service professional. Factors like driving habits, climate and road conditions all contribute to how long your tires will last. One great way to extend the life of your tires is by rotating them regularly and maintaining proper air pressure.

How To Tell If You Need New Tires

It’s important to regularly inspect your tires and look for worn tread depth, uneven wear, damaged valves and rocks or nails. If you feel a rough ride or experience vibrations while driving it could be a sign that your tires are worn out or damaged. If you’re not sure if your tires are worn out it might be a good idea to have them inspected by a service professional. Read more signs for tire replacement and when to to change your tires.

What To Expect When Buying New Tires

Simply provide the year, make and model of your vehicle, and our advanced Tire Finder will match your car to the right tires for you. You may also use our Tire Finder to search for tires with your tires size. You can find your tire size on your tire's sidewall, on the placard inside your driver's side door or in your owner's manual.

How you use the vehicle, is also important to selecting the right tire. Your tire choice may be different if you just drive around town versus if you take frequent long trips or are driving both on- and off-road.

You should also consider what tire benefits are most important to you. You may want a smoother, quieter daily commute. Or, you may want enhanced traction for control in winter months. If you take your vehicle off road, you may want a more durable tire for increased stability. The more specific you are, the better tire choice you can make.

You may have several tire options to choose from. Our tire selector can help you narrow down your options based on your needs and preferences. Our experts are also available in-store and via online chat to answer any questions you have. Once you've settled on a set of tires, it's time for your installation.

How to Check Your Tire Tread Depth

Goodyear suggests checking your tire tread depth every 3,000 miles. Here are some ways to check your tire tread depth to know if you need new tires:

The Penny Test

Insert a penny into your tire's tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, your tire tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and it's time to replace your tires.

The Quarter Test

Another easy coin test to measure tread depth is the quarter test. Insert a quarter into your tread groove. If the tread touches Washington's head, you have at least 4/32 inch of tread remaining.

Tire Tread Wear Indicator

You can also check the tread wear indicator. You can find the tread wear indicator less than an inch (2/32 of an inch) from the bottom of the tread groove. When the tread wears down to become even with this level, the tire should be replaced.

Tire Manufacturing Date

Check the manufacturing date of your tires by examining the sidewalls. The manufacturing date is shown through the last four digits of the number that starts with DOT. The first two digits represent the week made and the second two represent the year made.

When is The Best Time of Year to Buy Tires

Whether your tires have worn out or it’s time for winter tires, any time is a good time to buy tires on Goodyear.com. With our simple, convenient buying process, you can order wherever and whenever you choose. Also, check out our promotions page to learn what tire deals are available. Check out our buying tips for tire replacements as well to learn more about replacing all four tires, where to install certain tires, and different vehicle guidelines.