Tire and Wheel Buying FAQ

What You Need to Know Before Looking for Wheels Online or In-store

So, you've been thinking about buying new wheels for months and you can almost picture those new glossy spokes on your car. Our experts at Nelson Tire and Automotive will gladly help you find the best set of wheels for your ride, but we figured creating this guide would help shoppers researching or purchasing tires and/or wheels online.

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Q: Should I go with winter tires or all-season?

A: Winter tires are used to provide improved grip in icy and snowy conditions and are generally used when temperatures remain consistently near freezing. When temperatures warm to above freezing, switch to summer or all-season tires. When selecting tires, consider the conditions you commonly drive in, the worst weather you expect to face and where you usually drive (city street, country roads, highways...etc).

Q: Should I buy new or used tires?

A: Manufacturers generally recommend car owners change their tires every 6 years, regardless of wear and tear. Buying used tires is not typically recommended. There may be internal damage, it may be difficult to inspect the tire, and the rubber is likely worn and deteriorating. Moreover, there's no warranty to cover future damages. It may be cheaper now, but you will end up spending more in the long run with a used set of tires.

Q: What are run-flat tires and should I buy them?

A: It's important to understand the pros and cons of purchasing run-flats. Flat tires can often occur at the worst time and run-flat tires allow you to continue driving after a puncture, so you have enough time to find an auto shop or safe area to change your tire. Generally, you can continue driving on a flat for around 100 miles after all the air is gone. Run-flats are often original equipment on performance vehicles; they may not be available for mainstream models. Moreover, they are usually much costlier than conventional tires and auto shops may not have a full inventory of run-flats at all time. You may end up waiting a long time for a replacement

Q: Can I mix tire brands, types and/or size?

A: Despite appearing to be the same size, tires may have varying read patterns or internal construction. It's always recommended to use identical tires on all of your vehicle's wheel positions in order to maintain best control and stability. Moreover, you should never mix winter tires with all-season/summer tires or run-flat tires with non-run-flat tires.