Here are tips on how to get the best value when buying new tires.
• Choose tires for you. You don’t need to replace worn tires with the same brand and model that came with the vehicle. What’s important to you. Is it road noise? Handling? Tread life? Original tires are chosen to fit all types of consumers.
• Do research. Consumer Reports in its November edition reviewed tires. Tire will show a wide variety of tires that will fit. Most are accompanied by professional and user reviews. The most highly rated tires aren’t necessarily the most expensive.
• Compare prices. Prices can vary widely on the same tires. Check prices at independent tire dealers, tire chains, car dealerships, department stores and warehouse clubs. Make sure prices include mounting, balancing, new valves and disposal of worn tires.
• Consider buying online. Shopping online can be less expensive, even with shipping and the garage’s charge for putting on the tires. Online retailers include , and .
By Gregory Karp, The Morning Call (Allentown, Pa.)
