How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Car
A practical, no-fluff guide to buying the right tires for your vehicle, climate, and budget.
Step 1: Know Your Size
Every tire purchase starts with the correct size. Find it on:
- The sticker on your driver-side door jamb
- Your owner's manual
- The sidewall of your current tires (if they're the correct size)
The format looks like: 225/65R17 102H — width / aspect ratio / wheel diameter / load+speed.
How to read tire size numbers →
Step 2: Choose the Right Tire Type
| Tire Type | Best For | Avoid If |
|---|---|---|
| All-Season | Mild climates, year-round use, fuel economy priority | You get significant snow/ice |
| All-Weather (3PMSF) | Year-round in real winter climates, no-swap convenience | You want maximum dry-road performance |
| Winter | Best snow/ice traction, swapped twice a year | You won't commit to seasonal swaps |
| Summer / Performance | Maximum dry/wet grip, performance driving | Any temps below 45°F |
| All-Terrain (A/T) | Mixed on/off-road use for trucks/SUVs | Primarily highway — louder and less efficient |
All-season vs winter tires compared →
All-season vs all-weather tires compared →
Step 3: Match Load Index and Speed Rating
Never buy tires with a lower load index or speed rating than your OEM spec. Going higher is fine.
Load index and speed rating explained →
Step 4: Decide Where to Buy
- Online (Tire Rack, Discount Tire Direct, SimpleTire) — Best prices; ship to a local installer
- Discount Tire / America's Tire — Large chain, price match, frequent sales
- Costco Tire Center — Good value with lifetime rotation/balance included
- Dealer — Convenient but typically most expensive
How to buy tires online and save money →
Step 5: Check the DOT Date
Before accepting new tires, check the DOT code to ensure they're fresh stock — not tires that have been sitting in a warehouse for 2–3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tire brand?
Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, and Pirelli consistently rank highest in independent tests. That said, the specific model matters more than the brand — a mid-tier Michelin all-season may outperform a base-level Bridgestone.
Should I buy the same brand that came on my car from the factory?
Not necessarily. OEM tires are chosen partly for cost and partly for handling tune. Aftermarket options in the same category often outperform the OEM spec, especially in wet traction and longevity.
Is it OK to buy tires online?
Yes. Buying online and having them shipped to a local installer is one of the best ways to save money. You typically pay $15–30 per tire for mounting and balancing. Total savings vs. a tire shop can be 20–40%.