Buying Used Tires

Used tires are one of the best bargains around. Some sets of new tires can cost as much as $1500.00,
while the same tires can be purchased used for as little as $300.00, often delivering at least 70 percent
usage.

Used tires are not "junk." They do not have inherent problems just because they have been on another
car, nor are they "somebody else's problem." Most are trade ins, or tires that people have no further use
for. Some are takeoffs from trade in vehicles, and others are tires that people just don't like. I've seen
people remove brand new tires in favor of a different style, brand, or performance level.

Original equipment specifications can be found in the owner's manual or on the door post tag. Do NOT
rely upon the tire currently on your car (it may be the wrong one!) Always consult your manual or an
expert source for advice.

Speed and load ratings are the basis of tire construction specifications. You will see a number/letter
combination like "89V' on the sidewall. The number 89 is the load rating, and specifies how much weight
the tire will support.

The size will look like this: P205-55-R16. P  (P-metric) stands for pneumatic or passenger, the other
numbers represent width, profile, and rim diameter. Rim diameter cannot be changed! You cannot install
17" tires on 16" rims, etc. Tires specified for commercial use will be designated LT (Light Truck) instead of
P-metric.

Brands are interchangeable. There is no requirement that you buy a specific brand tire for your car,
despite what dealers will tell you. All you must do is be sure that the tire you purchase meets the
manufacturer's specifications.
R & R Motors, LLC
205-629-7867
TIRE SHOP