Buying tires online means comparing prices across retailers without leaving home, but you'll need to handle shipping and installation separately
When you buy tires online, you're purchasing from a retailer's website and having them shipped to your address or to a local shop. The tire itself arrives by truck or parcel carrier — it doesn't come through regular mail. You then either install them yourself (if you have the equipment), take them to a tire shop, or arrange installation through the retailer if they offer that service. The main advantage is price comparison and selection; the main trade-off is that you lose the convenience of walking in, buying, and leaving with tires already on your car.
Most people who buy tires online do so because they've found a lower price than their local shop, or because they want a specific brand or model that isn't stocked nearby. The process itself is straightforward, but there are real decisions to make about where to buy, how to handle installation, and what to do if a tire arrives damaged.
Key Takeaways
- You need your tire size before you shop — find it on the sidewall of your current tire or in your car's manual, written as a code like 225/65R17.
- Major tire retailers online include Discount Tire, Tire Rack, Amazon, Costco, and manufacturer websites, each with different shipping costs and installation options.
- Shipping a tire costs money and takes time, so compare the final price including delivery, not just the per-tire cost.
- Many tire shops will install tires you bought elsewhere, though some charge a fee or require you to buy them there instead.
- If a tire arrives damaged, contact the retailer when ready — most will reship or refund without requiring you to pay return shipping.
Finding your tire size and specifications
Before you search for tires online, you need to know your tire size. This is a code printed on the sidewall of any tire currently on your car — it looks like 225/65R17 or P205/55R16. The first number is the width in millimeters, the second is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), the R means radial construction, and the last number is the wheel diameter in inches. You can also find this information in your car's manual, on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb, or on the fuel door.
Write down the full code exactly as it appears. Do not guess or round — a tire that is one size off will not fit correctly and can affect your speedometer, fuel economy, and handling. If you're unsure, take a photo of the sidewall and bring it to a tire shop; they can confirm your size in under a minute.
You should also note whether you want all-season, winter, or summer tires, and whether you prefer a specific brand. All-season tires work year-round in most climates; winter tires have softer rubber and deeper treads for snow and ice; summer tires are harder and better for dry roads. If you live somewhere with real winters, winter tires are worth the cost — they grip better than all-season tires in cold weather, even on dry pavement.
Comparing prices across major online retailers
The largest online tire retailers are Discount Tire (discounttire.com), Tire Rack (tirerack.com), Amazon, Costco (if you have a membership), and manufacturer websites like Michelin or Goodyear. Each has different pricing, shipping costs, and installation options. Discount Tire and Tire Rack both offer free shipping on most orders and have physical locations where you can pick up and install tires if you live near one. Amazon's tire selection is smaller but prices can be competitive, and some sellers offer Prime shipping. Costco tires are often cheaper per unit but you pay for membership, and you can only install them at a Costco location.
When you compare prices, add the shipping cost to the per-tire price — this is the real total you'll pay. A tire that costs $80 but ships for $25 is actually $105 per tire. Some retailers offer free shipping over a certain order size (usually four tires), so buying a full set can change the math. Check whether the retailer charges a core fee (a deposit you get back when you return your old tires) — this is standard at tire shops but not always listed upfront online.
Read the return policy before you buy. Most online retailers allow returns within 30 to 60 days if the tire is unused, but policies vary. If a tire arrives damaged or defective, the retailer should cover return shipping and reship or refund when ready — this is not the same as a return for change of mind.
Arranging installation after delivery
Once your tires arrive, you need to get them installed on your wheels. You have three options: install them yourself if you have a jack and lug wrench (not recommended unless you've done it before), take them to a tire shop, or use an installation service offered by the retailer.
Many tire shops will install tires you bought elsewhere, though some charge a fee ranging from $15 to $50 per tire. Call ahead and ask — some shops will install for free if you buy a wheel alignment or other service from them. National chains like Firestone, Goodyear, and Les Schwab usually install tires from any source, but independent shops vary. If you bought from Discount Tire or Tire Rack and live near a location, you can often bring your tires there for installation at a lower cost than an independent shop.
Some online retailers offer installation through a network of partner shops — you select your location when you order, and the tires are shipped there instead of to your home. This saves you the step of transporting the tires, but limits where you can have them installed. Costco and some Discount Tire orders work this way. Ask the retailer whether this option is available for your order before you check out.
What to do if tires arrive damaged or defective
Tires are heavy and can be damaged in shipping. When your tires arrive, inspect them before signing for the package. Look for cuts, bulges, or obvious damage to the sidewall or tread. If you find damage, refuse the delivery or note the damage on the delivery receipt and photograph it when ready.
Contact the retailer's customer service the same day with photos and the tracking number. Most major retailers will reship the tire at no cost or issue a refund — they have insurance for shipping damage and expect this to happen occasionally. Do not attempt to install a damaged tire; it can fail while you're driving. If the retailer asks you to return the damaged tire first, ask whether they will cover return shipping — they should, since the damage occurred in their shipping process.
If a tire fails prematurely after installation (within the first few months or before you've driven many miles), contact the retailer with your proof of purchase and the tire's serial number. Most tires come with a manufacturer warranty covering defects, and the retailer can process a warranty claim on your behalf.
Timing and logistics to plan for
Shipping tires takes time. Standard ground shipping usually takes 5 to 10 business days after the order is placed, though this varies by retailer and your location. If you need tires urgently, check whether the retailer offers expedited shipping (usually 2 to 3 business days) — this costs extra but may be worth it if you're driving on worn tires. Some retailers offer next-day or two-day shipping in certain areas.
Once the tires arrive, you'll need to schedule installation. Tire shops often have wait times, especially in fall and spring when many people buy tires. If you're ordering in September or October (before winter), plan ahead — shops can book up weeks in advance. If you're using a retailer's installation network, the tires may ship directly to the shop and installation may be scheduled automatically, which removes this step.
Factor in the total time from order to driving on new tires — it's usually 2 to 3 weeks when you include shipping and installation scheduling. If you're on a tight timeline, calling a local tire shop and buying in person may be faster.
Warranty and support after purchase
Tires come with two types of coverage: the manufacturer's warranty (which covers defects in materials and workmanship) and the retailer's return policy (which covers change of mind or damage on arrival). The manufacturer's warranty is the same whether you buy online or in a store — it's tied to the tire, not the retailer. Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, and other manufacturers all offer warranties, though the length and coverage vary by tire model.
Keep your receipt and the tire's serial number (printed on the sidewall). If a tire fails and you need to make a warranty claim, you'll need both. The retailer you bought from can process the claim, or you can contact the manufacturer directly. Most manufacturers require that the tire be inspected by a shop before they approve a claim, so you'll need to take it somewhere regardless.
Some online retailers offer additional services like free rotations or discounts on future purchases. Tire Rack and Discount Tire both have loyalty programs that track your purchases and offer perks. These aren't necessary to buy tires online, but they can add value if you buy tires regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy tires online and have them installed at a local shop?
Yes. Most independent tire shops and national chains like Firestone and Goodyear will install tires you bought elsewhere, though some charge a fee of $15 to $50 per tire. Call ahead to confirm they accept outside tires and ask about their installation fee. Some shops waive the fee if you purchase other services like an alignment.
What if I don't know my tire size?
Look at the sidewall of any tire currently on your car — the size is printed there as a code like 225/65R17. You can also find it in your car's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb. If you're still unsure, a tire shop can tell you in seconds.
Is it cheaper to buy tires online or at a local shop?
Online prices are often lower per tire, but shipping costs can add $20 to $50 per tire depending on the retailer. Compare the final total price including shipping before you decide. Local shops sometimes match online prices if you ask, especially if you're buying a full set of four tires.
What happens if a tire arrives damaged?
Contact the retailer when ready with photos and your tracking number. Most retailers will reship the tire at no cost or issue a refund — they cover shipping damage. Do not install a damaged tire; it can fail while driving.
How long does it take to get tires after I order them online?
Standard shipping usually takes 5 to 10 business days. After arrival, you'll need to schedule installation, which can take another week or two depending on shop availability. Plan for 2 to 3 weeks total from order to driving on new tires.