Discount Tire is a national tire retailer owned by Berkshire Hathaway that sells tires, wheels, and related services at competitive prices
Discount Tire operates over 1,000 locations across the United States and is one of the largest independent tire retailers in the country. The company sells passenger car tires, truck tires, and wheels from major manufacturers, and handles installation, balancing, rotation, and repair services. Prices tend to be lower than dealership service departments because Discount Tire buys in volume and does not carry the overhead of a full automotive dealership.
The company also offers financing options through third-party lenders, a road hazard warranty program, and seasonal promotions. You can shop online, call a location directly, or visit a store in person. Discount Tire does not require membership fees to purchase or use their services.
Key Takeaways
- Discount Tire sells tires and wheels from major brands and handles installation and balancing at most locations, with pricing that is often lower than dealership rates.
- You can shop online, by phone, or in person, and the company offers financing through third-party lenders if you do not want to pay cash.
- Discount Tire's road hazard warranty covers certain damage like punctures and sidewall damage for a one-time fee, though coverage limits and exclusions vary by tire and plan.
- Wait times for installation vary by location and season; calling ahead or booking online can help you understand how long service will take.
- Discount Tire accepts most major credit cards and payment methods, and you can return or exchange tires within a set window if you change your mind.
How pricing and promotions work at Discount Tire
Discount Tire prices tires individually based on brand, size, and load rating. The same tire model may cost different amounts at different locations because local market conditions, inventory levels, and regional competition affect pricing. You can check prices online for your specific tire size and see what is available at nearby stores.
The company runs seasonal promotions, often around holidays or weather changes. These promotions may include mail-in rebates from tire manufacturers, discounts on installation services, or bundle deals that combine tires with wheels or other products. Promotions change regularly, so checking the Discount Tire website or calling your local store will show you what is current.
Discount Tire also offers price matching in many locations. If you find the same tire at a lower price elsewhere, bring proof and ask whether the store will match it. Policies vary by location, so confirm this with your store before you shop.
Installation, balancing, and tire services
Most Discount Tire locations offer tire installation, which includes mounting the tire on the wheel, balancing, and valve stem replacement. The installation fee varies by location and tire size but is usually charged per tire. Some promotions include free installation or discounted installation fees.
Tire rotation, wheel balancing, and flat repair are also available at most locations. Rotation typically costs less than installation and helps extend tire life by moving tires to different positions on the vehicle. Flat repair is often free if the damage is repairable; if the tire cannot be repaired, you may be offered a discount on a replacement.
Wait times for installation depend on how busy the location is and the time of year. Spring and fall, when people change between winter and summer tires, are typically busier. You can book an appointment online or by phone at many locations to reduce wait time.
Road hazard warranty and tire protection plans
Discount Tire offers a road hazard warranty that covers damage from punctures, impact breaks, and sidewall damage. The warranty is sold as a one-time fee per tire and lasts for the life of the tire or a set number of years, depending on the plan you choose. If a tire is damaged and cannot be repaired, the warranty covers a replacement at no additional cost.
The warranty does not cover wear-out (tires that have straightforward reached the end of their tread life), dry rot, or damage from underinflation or overloading. It also does not cover damage from racing, off-road use, or accidents. Read the specific terms of the warranty before you purchase it, because coverage limits and exclusions vary.
The cost of the warranty is typically a few dollars per tire, but the exact amount depends on the tire price and the plan selected. Some promotions include the warranty at no extra charge, so ask whether it is included in any current offer.
Financing options and payment methods
Discount Tire partners with third-party lenders to offer financing for tire and wheel purchases. These lenders may offer promotional interest rates (such as 0% for a set number of months) or standard financing with interest. You explore for financing at the store or online, and approval is usually quick.
The terms of financing vary by lender and your credit profile. Read the terms carefully before you agree, because interest rates, payment schedules, and any penalties for early repayment differ. If you do not want financing, you can pay with cash, debit card, or major credit cards at any location.
Some credit card companies offer cash back or rewards on tire purchases, so using your rewards card may lower your effective cost. Check your card's terms to see whether tire purchases earn rewards.
Online shopping and in-store pickup or delivery
Discount Tire's website allows you to search for tires by vehicle type, size, or brand, and to see prices and availability at nearby locations. You can add items to a cart and either arrange for in-store pickup or have tires shipped to your home or a Discount Tire location for installation.
If you order online for pickup, you typically choose a location and a time window. The store will mount and balance the tires before you arrive, so you can pick them up ready to install or have the store install them for an additional fee. Delivery to your home is available in some areas; the tires arrive uninstalled, and you arrange installation separately or through a partner service.
Shipping times and pickup windows vary by location and current demand. During busy seasons, lead times may be longer. The website will show you estimated availability before you complete your order.
Return, exchange, and satisfaction policies
Discount Tire allows you to return or exchange tires within a set window after purchase, usually 30 days. If you return tires that have not been installed, you can receive a full refund or exchange them for a different size or brand. If the tires have been installed and driven, the return or exchange policy may be more limited, and you may be charged a restocking fee or a deduction for mileage.
If you are unhappy with the service you received (such as installation quality), contact the store manager or Discount Tire's customer service line. The company has a process for handling complaints and may offer a refund, re-service, or credit toward future purchases.
Keep your receipt and any warranty documentation, because you will need them if you return tires or file a warranty claim. If you purchased the road hazard warranty, the claim process typically involves bringing the damaged tire to a Discount Tire location, where staff will inspect it and determine whether it qualifies for replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own tires to Discount Tire for installation?
Most Discount Tire locations will install tires you purchased elsewhere, though they may charge a higher installation fee than they would for tires bought from them. Call your local store to confirm they offer this service and to ask about the fee.
Does Discount Tire sell used or refurbished tires?
Discount Tire primarily sells new tires from manufacturers. Some locations may have a small selection of used tires, but this varies. Call ahead if you are looking for used tires, or ask whether the store can recommend a used tire retailer in your area.
What happens if a tire fails during the warranty period?
Bring the tire to any Discount Tire location with your receipt and warranty documentation. Staff will inspect the damage and determine whether it is covered. If it is, you receive a replacement tire at no cost. If it is not covered, you may be offered a discount on a replacement.
Can I transfer my road hazard warranty to a new vehicle?
The warranty covers the tire itself, not the vehicle, so if you move the tires to a new vehicle, the warranty moves with them. If you sell the vehicle with the tires still on it, the warranty typically transfers to the new owner if they have proof of purchase.
How do I know what tire size I need?
Your vehicle's tire size is printed on the sidewall of your current tires and in your vehicle's owner manual. You can also find it on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb. Bring this information to Discount Tire, or enter it on their website to see compatible tires and prices.