Factor in mounting, balancing, and new valve stems (usually $20–$40 per tire).
Look for these Department of Transportation (DOT) ratings printed on the sticker or sidewall: what to look for when buying tires for a car
Rated AA, A, B, or C. This measures the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement. Aim for A or AA . Factor in mounting, balancing, and new valve stems
They wear out quickly and become dangerously brittle/slick in winter. Winter (Snow) Tires: Identified by the "Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake" symbol. Special rubber stays soft in freezing temperatures. Deep treads bite into ice and slush. Weakness: They wear out very fast on warm, dry pavement. All-Weather Tires: A hybrid between All-Season and Winter. Safe for year-round use but rated for severe snow. Aim for A or AA
Before shopping, look at the "placard" inside your driver-side door jamb or your current tire's sidewall. P (Passenger) or LT (Light Truck).
Always get an alignment when buying four new tires to ensure they wear evenly.
Rubber degrades over time, even if the tire has never been driven. Locate the DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits represent the of manufacture.