Buying Tires on Amazon in 2026: The Complete Guide

As your tires wear down every year, at some point you‘ll need to buy new ones. But most people dread the chore of tire shopping at busy, crowded auto shops and getting hit with unexpected fees.

That‘s where Amazon comes in. The e-commerce giant sells just about every major brand of tires for every type of vehicle. And you can even book installation through their network of service providers when checking out.

But should you really buy tires online? How does it work? This definitive guide will walk through everything you need to know about the pros, cons, brands, prices, process, and expert tips for buying tires on Amazon.

Overview of Buying Tires on Amazon

Amazon has become a go-to destination for car tires, offering:

• Every major tire brand: Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Pirelli, Firestone, etc.

• Competitive pricing: Similar or lower than tire shops. Frequent discounts.

• Convenient delivery: Free 1-3 day shipping to your address.

• Professional installation: Book tire mounting/balancing with ASE-certified shops.

• Tire Finder: Tool matches tires to your vehicle‘s make, model, year.

• Warranties still apply: Same manufacturer warranties as anywhere.

But Amazon isn‘t without its downsides for tire buying. You can‘t inspect tires beforehand or negotiate. Some lesser known brands mix in with top ones. Still, it simplifies purchasing and provides unparalleled delivery speed and options.

Below we‘ll explore Amazon tires in-depth, from brands and pricing to tips for picking the best tires for your needs. Let‘s get rolling!

Over 40 Tire Brands Sold on Amazon

One of the biggest benefits of Amazon‘s tire selection is the huge range of brands available. Unlike smaller shops, Amazon stocks tires from all the major manufacturers.

Some top brands sold on Amazon include:

Passenger tires account for the majority, but you can also buy specialty tires for trucks, SUVs, performance cars, motorcycles, trailers, lawn equipment, and more.

Amazon stocks common sizes along with hard-to-find dimensions for vintage cars or special editions. Tires ship brand new from the manufacturer or authorized dealer.

Amazon‘s Tire Finder Matches to Your Vehicle

Amazon makes it simple to find properly fitting tires for your vehicle. Their built-in Tire Finder helps you avoid mistakes:

When searching for tires, you‘ll see a Tire Finder box. Enter your:

• Vehicle year, make, and model
• Tire dimensions

The Tire Finder shows you results that match your vehicle based on Tire and Rim Association data.

Any tire marked "Amazon Confirmed Fit" is guaranteed to fit properly. This takes the guesswork out of measuring and matching aftermarket tire sizes.

You can filter search results to only see the tires confirmed to fit. Or browse alternatives that may work but don‘t have the official fitment guarantee.

The Tire Finder saves you time and gives confidence you‘ll get the right tires for your car or truck straight from the manufacturer‘s specifications.

How to Buy Tires on Amazon: Step-By-Step

Here is the complete process for purchasing tires on Amazon, either delivered to you or installed at a service center:

Step 1: Search for Tires

Look up tires by:

• Tire or vehicle size
• Brand name
• Vehicle type – car, truck, SUV
• Using the Tire Finder for your exact fit

For example, search "235/75R15 tires" or "tires for 2019 Toyota Camry".

Step 2: Select Tire Models

Browse the search results and select the specific tire models you need.

Check customer reviews and ratings on Amazon to pick the best-reviewed tires for your vehicle.

Step 3: Choose Delivery or Installation

Choose free 1-3 day delivery to:

• Your home address
• Amazon Hub locker pickup
• Or select professional installation at a service center near you for an additional fee during checkout.

Most customers can get free shipping on eligible tires over $25.

Step 4: Schedule Installation (Optional)

If you opted for installation, pick from available times over the next 1-2 weeks at a shop near you.

The tires will ship directly to the service center instead of your address.

You‘ll get an email confirming the appointment date/time.

Step 5: Checkout

Complete your tire order and wait for delivery or installation day. Inspect tires upon arrival before having them mounted.

Easy as that! No need to visit multiple shops or negotiate prices in person.

What‘s Included in Amazon‘s Tire Installation Service?

One major perk of buying tires through Amazon is affordable professional installation available right during checkout.

You can select tire mounting, balancing, and other services from ASE-certified technicians in Amazon‘s network of auto shops.

Here‘s what‘s included:

• Demounting your old tires
• Mounting and balancing the new tires
• New valve stems
• Lifetime tire rotations
• Old tire recycling or disposal
• Road hazard protection
• TPMS reset (if needed)

Installation starts at around $20 per tire – very competitive with local shops. The full quote is shown before you complete checkout.

You pick a date and time within the next 1-2 weeks. The service center will receive your tires in advance so they are ready to be installed.

The installers are vetted, experienced professionals approved by Amazon. Their work is guaranteed under Amazon‘s Happiness Promise.

Tire Warranties: Coverage and Limitations

Similar to buying anywhere else, Amazon tires come with a manufacturer‘s warranty against defects. Coverage varies by brand.

Most passenger car tires have a warranty of:

• 30,000-60,000 miles
• 3-5 years

Premium tires boast guarantees up to 80,000 miles from brands like Michelin and Goodyear.

Check the exact mileage and duration covered under the warranty listed on the product page. Print your receipt.

If an issue arises, the service center can assess damage and replace tires still under warranty. Make sure you understand coverage limits before purchasing.

While Amazon provides tire installation, the warranty is ultimately between you and the tire manufacturer. Know what‘s covered and for how long.

Is Amazon a Good Place to Buy Tires? Pros and Cons

Buying tires online through retailers like Amazon has its advantages and disadvantages compared to local tire shops.

Pros of Buying Tires on Amazon:

• Wide selection of all major tire brands in one place
• Competitive pricing, discounts more frequent than shops
• Fast free shipping to your address in 1-3 days
• Convenient at-home delivery so you don‘t have to visit shops
• Optional professional installation booked online at great prices
• Tire Finder tool takes the guesswork out of size fitting
• User reviews from other customers help you pick the best tires
• No pressure to make an immediate decision like at shops

Cons of Buying Tires on Amazon:

• Can‘t physically inspect tires before purchasing
• Some off-brand or lesser known tire brands mixed in
• Delayed shipping possible during high volume times
• No ability to negotiate pricing in person
• Must handle warranty issues through manufacturer instead of shop
• No personalized expert advice on best tires for your car

Ultimately there are good reasons for and against buying tires online through retailers like Amazon. The convenience and selection make it a viable option for many. But for specialty tires or custom recommendations, other sources may be better.

Below we‘ll explore in more depth how Amazon tires stack up on price, selection, and service.

How Do Prices Compare to Other Retailers?

In most cases, Amazon offers very competitive tire pricing compared to local shops and national chains.

Their high volume gives them leverage to offer discounts. Automated online fulfillment also keeps costs low.

For example, here are average prices for top brands on common sedan sizes:

Of course, prices fluctuate regularly online. Specialty tires for trucks or performance cars may have wider price gaps. Local shops also run frequent promotions on tire installation or storage.

Still, Amazon often beats smaller competitor‘s regular pricing, and competes with major chains. You‘ll typically pay less than the manufacturer‘s MSRP.

What About Selection and Availability?

Thanks to selling all major tire brands, Amazon usually has ample supply and selection for popular sizes. But inventory isn‘t unlimited.

During COVID-related supply chain issues in 2020-2021, some specific sizes sold out quickly after being restocked.

For common passenger vehicle sizes, you should find plenty of options unless there is high demand. But unusual dimensions for exotic cars or rare trucks may have minimal stock.

Local shops can special order in sizes not regularly carried. Amazon leans towards faster-moving, high-volume tire models to keep costs down.

If you drive a mainstream vehicle – sedans, crossovers, light trucks – Amazon should have lots of quality name-brand tires in your size.

Does Amazon Provide Good Tire Installation Service?

While DIY enthusiasts love Amazon delivery, other customers appreciate their professional installation options.

Amazon has partnered with national chains like Firestone, Pep Boys, and NTB Tire along with regional auto service providers.

These installers are vetted for licensing, experience, and customer service. Their workmanship is guaranteed under Amazon‘s policies. Pricing is very competitive with independent shops.

The convenience of at-home delivery combined with affordable pro installation makes Amazon‘s end-to-end tire purchasing experience compelling.

Expert Tips for Buying Tires on Amazon

Follow these tips as a savvy shopper when purchasing tires on Amazon:

• Compare prices for the same tires across different sellers on Amazon before choosing.

• Read reviews for real customer experiences. Sort by vehicle type for relevance.

• Verify the manufacturer warranty for coverage years and mileage.

• Stick to recognizable brands like Goodyear, Continental, Michelin rather than obscure names.

• Use the Tire Finder to match to your vehicle, or cross-reference dimensions manually.

• Check treadwear ratings – higher is better, with most between 300-800.

• Consider fuel efficiency with low rolling resistance tires to save gas.

• Compare delivery times if you need tires ASAP. Prime speeds up shipping.

• Inspect tires on arrival before having them installed for any damage.

• Research best rated tires for your vehicle type – TireRack is a great source.

The right tires can improve braking, handling, ride quality, and fuel economy. Do your homework before clicking buy.

How to Choose the Best Tires for Your Needs

With countless tire models on the market, it‘s hard to know where to start. Follow this advice to pick tires that match your driving needs and budget.

1. Decide on a Tire Category

Tires come in different categories based on season and conditions:

• All-season: Offer year-round traction in most climates, common and affordable general use tire. Brands like Michelin Defender, Continental PureContact.

• Summer: Provide superior warm weather handling and braking. Popular for performance cars. Examples – Bridgestone Potenza, Michelin Pilot Sport.

• Winter/Snow: Designed for traction in ice, snow, and cold temperatures via sipes and tread compounds. Blizzak, X-Ice tires.

• All-terrain/Off-road: Rugged, durable construction for light off-roading, gravel, dirt roads. BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA, Toyo Open Country A/T.

Choose the category that fits your climate and intended driving conditions.

2. Compare Brands and Models

Once you‘ve chosen a category, research top makes and models based on:

• Professional tests: Check ratings on sites like TireRack for braking, handling, noise, etc.

• Reputation and owner satisfaction: Read consumer reports and Amazon customer reviews.

• Price/value: Weigh benefits against tire cost to get the features you need. Premium tires offer heightened performance but at a price.

• Warranty coverage: Mileage and duration limits give an expectation of tire life.

3. Pick the Right Size

Make sure to use Amazon‘s Tire Finder or cross-reference your existing size and vehicle when choosing a replacement:

• Tire width: Measured in millimeters. Wider generally provides more grip.

• Aspect ratio: Sidewall height as a percentage of width. Affects cushioning.

• Rim size: Diameter of the wheel rim in inches.

• Load index: Carrying capacity rating based on weight.

• Speed rating: Safe sustained speed capability, typically 90+ MPH for passenger vehicles.

Following your existing size or the Tire Finder recs ensures the right fit.

4. Choose a Service Provider

If having tires installed, pick from highly rated auto shops in Amazon‘s network. Check reviews on both Amazon and other sites like Yelp.

An ASE Blue Seal of Excellence shop signifies advanced training and certifications. Shops authorized as TireRack installers also tend to have great reputations.

Doing a small amount of research will help you find a 5-star tire shop to handle your new tires with care. Protect your investment.

Conclusion

While buying tires online may seem unusual, Amazon makes the process incredibly smooth. Their massive selection, competitive pricing, fast shipping, and installation network streamline the purchasing experience.

For basic tire replacements on common vehicle sizes, Amazon is hard to beat for convenience and affordability. While specialty tires still warrant checking dedicated auto stores, Amazon covers most consumers‘ needs.

By using their Tire Finder to match tires to your vehicle, reading reviews, understanding warranties, and researching top-rated brands, you can shop online confidently. New tires will be at your doorstep in days, backed by professional installation.

So next time your car needs new shoes, don‘t waste time driving around town. Let Amazon bring the tire shop to you. Your ride will be rolling smoothly again in no time.