Should You Use, Used Tires To Save Money? April 6
The past few days, I went doing a little research about several brands of tires. The car will be needing some fresh tires as the threads are getting worn down. The question of using used tires came up because I made friends with a person I met recently. We drive a similar car and this person, being just as frugal as me, perhaps more so, suggested using used tires.
It got me thinking a bit since used tires cost only a quarter of what a brand new tire costs. After a bit of number crunching and a bit of research online, I decided against using used tires. The reason is I’d rather not face the prospect of a tire blowout at highway speeds. Even though I’m a rather gentle driver, there are times I’m in a hurry. And used tires could have their carcass damaged without you knowing it until it is too late.
According to Michelin, approximately 535 fatalities and 23,000 collisions per year due to a tire blowout. Tires are so well constructed today that very few blowout occur. But a tire that is under inflated, over inflated, over loaded or impact damage of hitting in a pothole or a curb.
The cost of 4 new tires is about US$ 240. A set of tires assuming you take care of them will last easily 60,000 to 70,000 km. So saving US$ 180 for something that will last 3-4 years doesn’t warrant the risk attached to it. That’s my 2 cents.
What do you think? Do you use, used tires to save money?
Raymond Chua Apr 8
Personally, I prefer to use new tires.
It gives me a sense of security.
hank Apr 8
absolutely a good idea. Tires aren’t cheap, but they’re worth it for piece of mind…
Debt Free or Bust - Sherri Apr 12
You’re right.
Many people don’t consider the risk when they look at the cheaper price of used tires. I did some research on how used tires are retreaded, and I believe retreaded tires will eventually be outlawed because they are so much more dangerous than even the cheapest new tires you can buy that only have a 30,000 mile warranty. You can much more safely drive the new, 30,000 mile tires for 50,000 miles than you can any used tire.
If you buy used tires you’re taking your life in your wallet. Is your life worth $200? Mine is worth a lot more than that to me.
Sherri
Ed Apr 12
Sherri, thanks for your comment. I haven’t thought about retreaded tires. Over here, they are usually used by transport companies trucks and buses. When I mention used tires, I speaking of tires that the previous owner use for a while.
These used tires can come from various place. I know that cars in Japan are taken off the road very quickly. These cars are chop up and part are exported to other countries. Wheels and tires are part of the part that is sold.
Then, there are those people who can’t stand the OEM tires and upgrade to other sets.
The consensus so far is life and limb is worth more than $200 bucks!
ylang ylang Jun 27
had to buy used tires late last year bcoz i had to go on a long road trip and didn’t have enough money for a new set. but the used looks almost brand new. so, i’m happy with it. BUT next round, i would DEFINITELY get a brand new set.