Knowing how much a used tire cost is important when you’re shopping for new ones. Buying used tires can be a good option for some people, but not for everyone.
We discuss the price of used tires and the factors that depend on your car or truck needs.
Short Answer: The price of used tires can range anywhere from $50 – $90.
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How Much Are Used Tires?
New tires can cost upwards of $100 or more, depending on the brand and type. But, you can pay as little as $50 for a good used tire. Depending on the specifications, a high-quality used tire can cost $90 and up to $160 if it’s in good condition.
In the US, the standard tire size is around 25 inches in diameter. In other words, most tires are about as big around as your arm from elbow to the wrist. If you have a full-size pickup truck, the most common diameter sizes are 19.5, 22.5, and 24.5.
For motorcycles and scooters, the most common diameters range from 16 to 18 inches—your average car tire measures around 15 or 16 inches across at its widest point. So tire prices vary greatly depending on the type of tire you are buying and the size.
A standard tire for a midsize car might cost between $80 to $120. An off-road or large truck tire could run you up to around $300. Keep in mind that these are just ballpark numbers. Prices can vary depending on the brand and where you buy it from.
Are Used Tires a Better Choice Than New Ones?
People choose to buy used tires instead of new ones because they’re much cheaper. There’s also the fact that many people just don’t have enough money to spend on brand new tires. So buying used tires secondhand is a good alternative to new.
Buying secondhand is easy nowadays, with many new places selling used tires. They can last a long time if taken care of properly. Of course, you have to make sure each tire has enough tread remaining.
A driver runs the risk of skidding, not stopping fast enough, or blowing a tire if the tread is too thin. Just like getting your rotors turned, your vehicle tires need to hold up under pressure, and you cannot compromise price for safety.
See our guide on places to get flywheel resurfacing nearby.
10 Factors That Affect the Cost of Tires
Several factors can affect the cost of used tires, including:
1. Price
You must determine if the pros of buying a used tire outweigh the cons. Then, consider how much money you’ll save buying used versus buying new ones and what recycle options are available for you after they’ve been removed from your car.
The last factor that affects the actual price of used tires is the size of your vehicle. The bigger the tire, the more it costs to purchase a replacement.
2. Tread
The more miles you drive on your tires, the less effective they are at stopping and handling. Low mileage tires will grip the road better than ones with high mileage.
It’s wise to disclose when you’re selling like-new used tires. You’ll get a better price if you list the history and it’s been barely used.
Always check the tire tread if you make money driving around or get paid to advertise on your car.
3. Wheel Alignment
If the car tires are not aligned, they will not wear evenly, and your car will not drive straight down the road. In addition, proper tire pressure will prevent the tread from wearing out faster.
It’s recommended to spend money on a wheel alignment if you notice the car doesn’t steer straight down the road. Most auto repair shops will check your alignment when you get an oil change.
Also, when the seasonal temperatures change, use an air pump at a local gas station to fill your tires with the proper PSI. You’ll likely find the correct PSI in the driver’s side door jam next to the VIN number.
See our guide on free air for tires near me.
4. Age
Tires can warp and crack when sitting too long. It will drastically lower the resale value because it makes them unsafe to continue driving. When trying to sell used tires that are still good, it’s essential to disclose still that buyer beware.
5. Sidewall
Damage or scuffing of the tire’s side will lower resale value because it makes them unsafe for use after being placed back onto a wheel rim. Sidewall damage should be disclosed when trying to sell used tires, so everyone gets a fair market price.
6. Tread Depth
If there’s not enough tire tread left on a tire, it won’t be easy to grip the road when driving. It could cause a loss of control or an accident. When selling old tires for scrap, they’re unsafe and no longer usable.
Companies that buy scrap tires will pay around $3 each in cash. About 80% of scrap tires are recycled and turned into over 110 different products such as composite decks, construction backfill, and floor mats.
7. Brand
A better tire brand will have a higher resale value; you’ll be able to flip it for a higher profit. When selling used tires, it’s helpful to disclose the brand name to get a fair market price for them.
Also, brands such as Goodyear and Michelin offer their own recycling programs where you can bring in your old tires and get a discount on replacements.
8. Size
The bigger the tire size, such as its width and diameter, the most expensive a new and used one will cost. You’ll get more money if it’s a large tire size from a pickup truck or oversized vehicle.
9. Color
Common tire colors are more desirable and will have higher resale values. Originally automotive tires were manufactured in an off-white color, then a bright white, and then in 1910, Goodrich started making black tires.
10. Tire Type
A winter, summer, all-season, and used performance tire will cost more than a basic type. You’ll get more money if it’s more specialized.
Where Are the Best Places to Buy Used Tires?
Used tires can be bought from private sellers, online marketplaces, or brick-and-mortar tire stores. You can also buy used tires online from places like Craigslist, eBay, and other sites like Craigslist.
Each place has its benefits. For example, a private seller might have new tires in good condition and cost less than new ones.
When selling used tires privately, it can be challenging to determine their market value because it varies depending on the brand name, size, tread depth, and any sidewall damage.
On the other hand, many tire stores will purchase used tires in good condition from consumers who do not want them anymore and offer a trade-in value. The store might even offer free installation of used tires if purchased at that location.
However, people should take caution when buying from private sellers because they may not have the best intentions. In short, beware of tire scams!
If you’re looking to purchase used tires for your truck or SUV, they must be not too old and have been well maintained. It will ensure that you get maximum use out of them before needing new ones again.
Another reason to buy a used tire is for a spare. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but it’s a cost-effective way to have some “insurance” in your trunk if you get a flat.
How Much Are Used Tires Summary
Buying used tires is a great way to save money while still getting quality and safe products. Unfortunately, people often choose to buy new tires because they think it’s worth the cost in the long run. But, consider used products that are more affordable and meet your needs.
What are the reasons to buy a used tire?
Maybe you’re a part-time driver and put low mileage on your vehicle. It’s cheaper for you to install used tires on a leased vehicle vs. paying the dealership for new ones when you turn it in at the end of your contract.
There’s no reason not to give them a try!
By the way, it’s a myth that driving a manual transmission car compared to an automatic will wear down your tires faster. They are equal, except an automatic transmission car has more parts and more things can break.
