More and more people purchase tires online today than 20 years ago. Is it a good idea to purchase tires online?
There are pros and cons.
Pros:
- Lower price at online store
- A large selection of different brands and models of tires
- At some online stores, additional saving of free mounting and balancing if purchasing tires and rims at the same time
Cons:
- Lack of face-to-face interactions with staff at brick-and-mortar stores
- Delivery time
- Cannot inspect the tires before purchasing
- Potential tires damage during delivery
- Still need a local installer
- No mail-in rebate if purchasing from United States
- Additional import duty for tires not manufacturing in North America if purchasing from United States
Money Saving Tips:
- Compare online purchase price and the price at local tires stores / car dealers
- Check the price-match policy at local tires stores or car dealers.
- Purchase tires during a rebate promotion period. The rebate promotion period varies among different tires brands. (Rebate promotions are also available for online purchasing from the authorized tires stores in Canada)