Where to Buy Tires Online

Last Updated: October 6, 2025

I have recently bought more tires than I would like to admit. Almost all of the sets of tires were purchased online. Buying tires online has now become a convenient and budget-friendly way to find the perfect set for your vehicle. You can quickly compare prices, read reviews, and have tires delivered to your home or installed. In this article, I’ll do my best to give you a solid list of the best US online tire retailers and explain why TireRack.com is my top pick. I think it’s only fair to explain why I've made almost all of my recent tire purchases on Tire Rack, rather than other sites.

Different sites have different pros and cons. Sometimes, my favorite site doesn’t have a particular tire, especially when I’m looking for super cheap tires. Sometimes sizes aren’t there. However, for the most part, you can stick to one website and not have to worry about ever using any other site. Let’s dive in.

Best Places to Buy Tires Online

As far as getting the best price for a tire, you will not really find huge differences between websites since tire manufacturers control how cheaply companies can list their tires for. However, there are other aspects to consider, such as tire hazard protection, installation locations, and options to save money by picking up your tires yourself. Without beating around the bush too much, let’s start with the overall #1 pick, the TireRack.com.

1. TireRack.com — Best Overall Online Tire Retailer

Why I picked it as #1: Simply put, Tire Rack has the best overall deals. Since Tire Rack joined forces with Discount Tire, it can offer you the lowest prices for tires due to their combined negotiation power. I mean, being the world’s largest tire retailer has its perks.

What made me love dealing with Tire Rack is that they offer free road hazard protection with the purchase of a set of tires. At other chains, you need to pay an additional $50 to $200 extra for the same protection.

To make things even better, Tire Rack also allows you to pick up the tires from their distribution center if you are in close proximity to it. If you choose this route, Tire Rack will offer a discount on the set of tires that corresponds to the price of the tires. I have received anywhere between a $40 discount on cheaper winter tires and a $70 discount for picking up my expensive track tires.

Since I live in the Denver area, there is a Tire Rack Distribution Center located at 9400 E 46th Pl, Suite 101, Denver, CO 80238. Every time I go there, I do not wait more than 5 minutes after calling the pick-up number and telling them that I’m outside. Nice fellas pop out with the set of my tires, confirm my identity, and let me take the tires. Tire Rack saves money on shipping and packaging, and I can get my tires quickly and save money as well (even after fuel expense). Tire Rack currently has 12 distribution centers from which you can pick up your tires. You can check if they are near you by visiting their Order Pick-Up page.

Picking up is not the only option; Tire Rack allows shipping to over 10,000 installers, including Discount Tire locations. Schedule appointments easily; mobile installation is also available in select regions for about $30/tire. Alternatively, you can ship to your home if preferred.

Pros:

• Wide selection of brands and models, plus expert and user reviews.
• Free shipping on orders over $50; fast 1–2 day delivery available in many areas.
• Includes a free 2-year road hazard warranty, saving $50–$200 compared to competitors.
• Local pick-up option with discount: Customers can pick up orders from a distribution center and save approximately $40-$60.
• Access over 10,000 partner installers, including Discount Tire, with mobile service available in select areas.

Cons:

• No bundled installation: Installation isn’t included in Tire Rack’s price, so you pay the installer separately (similar to most online options). Scheduling installation is up to you (though they help you find one). My go-to is to take the tires to Discount Tire for installation.
• Limited physical stores: No Tire Rack-branded retail stores except their Indiana HQ. If you prefer face-to-face purchase advice or immediate service, you’d go through a partner shop (e.g., a Discount Tire store) rather than a Tire Rack storefront.

TireRack.com is my top recommendation because it offers great prices, excellent service, and additional benefits. It’s especially good for auto enthusiasts and informed shoppers. You can research and pick the exact tire you want, including high-performance or specialty options, and get free road-hazard protection. With support from Discount Tire, Tire Rack offers both online convenience and a robust offline support network, making it a top choice for tire buyers.

2. Discount Tire (DiscountTire.com) — Runner-Up & Best Brick-and-Mortar Integration

Why I picked it: Discount Tire is the largest tire retailer in the world, with over 1,200 physical stores across 39 states. They also sell online through their website (formerly known as Discount Tire Direct for online sales). As the new parent company of Tire Rack, Discount Tire offers a very similar online experience and pricing. I named it runner-up because it is almost identical to Tire Rack, but lacks a few things that I mentioned previously. However, they are great for those who value having a local store experience. If you want the option to order online but still prefer to have a brick-and-mortar store for installation, after-sales service, or face-to-face support, Discount Tire is an excellent choice.

Key features: On DiscountTire.com, you can select from over 100 tire brands, with an interface that helps match tires to your specific needs. Shipping is fast and free to most U.S. addresses. You can choose to ship to your home or directly to a nearby Discount Tire store for convenient in-store installation. The process allows you to reserve your tires and have them installed at your preferred time and date. Discount Tire’s extensive retail network allows buyers to consult with staff and access services such as rotations and repairs, making it the top choice for those who want both online convenience and local support.

Pricing at Discount Tire is pretty much the same as at Tire Rack. If you find a cheaper tire elsewhere, Discount Tire will offer you a price match guarantee against other tire retailers. Now that Tire Rack and Discount Tire are part of the same company, prices are typically aligned, but the price-match policy adds peace of mind. Discount Tire frequently runs rebates and seasonal sales, similar to Tire Rack’s. The biggest cost difference is in added services. While Tire Rack includes road hazard protection for free (a $50–$200 value), Discount Tire charges extra: their Certificate for Repair/Refund/Replacement (road hazard warranty) can range from $10 to $25 per typical tire, or over $60 for high-end ones.

For instance, adding certificates to four $220 tires raises the total by about $175. If you value road hazard coverage, Tire Rack provides it at no additional cost; if you don’t, Discount Tire’s upfront price may be just as competitive. Weigh these costs when comparing value.

Another thing to consider is installation cost. Discount Tire’s in-store installation fees are comparable to industry standards, typically ranging from $20 to $25 per tire for mounting, balancing, new valve stems, and disposal. If you buy your tires from Discount Tire, either online or in-store, you usually get free lifetime rotations, balancing, and flat repairs. This adds value over time, especially if you keep your tires for more than 40,000 miles. Having a local store can also be reassuring because you can go back for any issues, and they’ll have your purchase on record.

Note: It is worth mentioning that since I keep buying tires from Tire Rack and have them installed at Discount Tire, they seem to service my tires the same way as if I bought them there. Makes sense since it’s the same company after all.

Pros:

• Nationwide store network: 1,200+ stores for convenient installation, service, and support if anything goes wrong. Great for those who want a local touch along with online pricing.
• Free shipping (online orders): Ships free to 48 states, or free delivery to a local Discount Tire store for installation.
• Competitive prices & matching: “Low Price” guarantee – will match Tire Rack or others’ prices if you find a better deal. Also runs rebates and promotions frequently.
• Flexible payment options: Financing and payment plans available (Discount Tire credit card, etc.). Useful if you need tires now and want to pay over time.
• Strong customer service: Free rotations, balancing, and flat repairs at their stores for customers; known for friendly, no-pressure service (online ordering even lets you “skip the upsell” at the store, as one forum user noted).

Cons:

• Road hazard warranty costs extra: Unlike Tire Rack, you don’t get free road hazard protection – you’d pay roughly 10–15% of the tire price for a Certificate warranty if desired. This can add $ 50-$100 or more to a set of tires, which is a notable additional cost.
• Strict return policy: If you need to return or exchange tires, Discount Tire’s policies can be somewhat strict (tires generally shouldn’t be driven on if you plan to return them). Tire Rack’s 30-day return policy might be more lenient in comparison.
• Potential upsells in-store: While you can order online to minimize sales pressure, if you visit in person, you may encounter pitches for additional services (though they are generally respectful if you decline).

Overall, Discount Tire is a close second to Tire Rack for buying tires online. It serves as the in-person counterpart to Tire Rack’s online approach. Since they are now part of the same company, both are solid choices. Tire Rack stands out for its free hazard protection and warehouse pickup, but Discount Tire matches on price and adds the benefit of personal service. If you enjoy visiting a store, Discount Tire is a great option. Many drivers have relied on their local Discount Tire shop for years. For most car owners looking for a good online deal and a reliable local installer, Discount Tire is an excellent choice.

3. SimpleTire — Best for Wide Selection and Quick Local Delivery

If you haven’t heard of SimpleTire, it’s an online tire retailer that has grown rapidly by offering a vast selection and convenient delivery to local installers. SimpleTire partners with over 20,000 tire shops and distribution points across the country. The idea is that when you order, they locate the tire in their network (which carries over 300 brands of tires, one of the largest assortments available) and ship it directly from the nearest source to you or your chosen installer. This often results in very quick delivery times — sometimes same-day or next-day — because the tires might come from a warehouse or distributor in your region.

What makes SimpleTire stand out: its selection and competitive prices. They stock everything from major brands to specialty and budget brands, covering virtually every category (all-season, UHP, off-road, winter, trailer tires, etc.). If Tire Rack or local stores don’t have a particular obscure tire model, SimpleTire might. They also frequently offer discount codes or flash sales, and they have a “Best Price Guarantee,” which means if you find a lower total price elsewhere, they’ll try to beat it. Additionally, SimpleTire offers some unique perks, including a military and healthcare worker discount program, as well as referral bonuses (e.g., refer a friend for a $10 gift card).

When you purchase from SimpleTire, you can choose a local installer from their network during checkout. If you ship directly to one of their partner installers or even to a FedEx pickup location, shipping is free. However, note that if you want the tires shipped to your home or a business address, a small handling fee is usually added (this is one of SimpleTire’s quirks – they incentivize delivery to installers). Installation fees at partner shops vary, but you’ll see estimated install costs when selecting an installer, which is helpful. Many users like that SimpleTire’s model often means your tires are already at the shop when you arrive for your appointment, making the process smooth.

Pros:

• Massive selection: Over 300 brands and thousands of models – great for finding uncommon tire sizes or brands.
• Fast local fulfillment: Uses a nationwide network; often can get tires delivered to a nearby shop very quickly (sometimes even the same day).
• Competitive pricing & deals: Best Price Guarantee, plus frequent promo codes. They often have sales on specific brands or an extra percentage off if you buy a set of four.
• Free shipping to installers: No shipping charge if you send the tires to one of their partner installers or a FedEx pick-up spot, which covers most people’s needs.
• Flexible payment options: Supports Affirm, PayPal Credit, and other financing/pay-over-time options, which can help if you’re on a budget.

Cons:

• Shipping fee to home: If you prefer to receive tires at your home and bring them to be installed yourself, expect a “handling” fee. It’s not usually too high, but it’s not completely free like Tire Rack or Discount Tire shipping to your address.
• No included road hazard warranty: You’d have to purchase road hazard coverage separately (through a third party or maybe through the installer at the time of install). SimpleTire doesn’t bundle this coverage for free.
• Less personalized guidance: Although the website is easy to use, SimpleTire lacks the same level of in-house testing, reviews, and recommendation wizards as Tire Rack. It’s a more straightforward marketplace. Shoppers who aren’t sure what they need might have to do a bit more independent research.
• Installer quality may vary: With 20,000+ partners, the service experience can depend on the specific shop you choose. Be sure to read reviews of the installer you select (SimpleTire displays ratings for many of its partner shops).

SimpleTire is a solid third option for shoppers who value a wide array of choices and quick delivery to a local shop. It’s particularly good if you’re hunting for a hard-to-find tire or looking for the absolute best price. In the introduction of this article, I mentioned tires that are more rare. SimpleTire would be a good place to find such tires. The main thing to watch is the shipping approach – to maximize value, ship to a partner installer for free. Given its strengths, SimpleTire gives the big players a run for their money and is one of the best online tire sources in 2025.

4. Amazon – Best for Convenience and User Reviews

Amazon sells just about everything, and tires are no exception. The giant online retailer has become a surprisingly popular destination for purchasing tires, particularly for individuals who trust the Amazon purchasing process and appreciate the convenience of using their Amazon account. Selection on Amazon is huge: you’ll find all the major brands (Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Cooper, etc.) as well as many private-label or lesser-known brands. In fact, the selection can be a bit overwhelming, but you can narrow it down by vehicle or size and use filters (such as price, brand, speed rating, etc.) to find what you need. Often, you might discover deals on Amazon that aren’t advertised elsewhere – sometimes certain tires go on sale for a limited time.

The biggest draw of Amazon is convenience. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you typically get free shipping on tires (and many are eligible for Prime’s fast delivery). Amazon also sometimes offers free returns on tires for Prime members – meaning if you order the wrong size, you can send them back (unmounted) at no cost, which is a nice safety net. Please note that the return policy varies by tire listing.

Another convenient feature is Amazon’s integration with installers through the “Amazon Approved Installers” program. At checkout, after selecting your tires, Amazon will offer to ship directly to a local installer in your area (they have partnerships with many tire shops, car dealerships, and service centers). You can book an appointment through Amazon at the same time you purchase the tires. This way, you show up at the installer, and the tires are there, ready to be put on. Installation fees through Amazon’s program are pre-negotiated – for example, it may display a flat rate per tire for mounting and balancing. Some installers on Amazon even include extras like valve stems and tire disposal in that rate. Alternatively, Amazon offers a “Home Services” option in some locales, where a mobile installer comes to you (this usually incurs an additional fee).

Pros:

• Extensive selection: Virtually every tire that’s sold in the U.S. can be found on Amazon. Great for comparing obscure models or checking customer ratings on them.
• Convenient checkout and fast shipping: If you already have an Amazon account, the buying process is familiar and quick. Prime members enjoy free, often two-day shipping on many tire models. It’s hard to beat the logistics efficiency of Amazon.
• Installer integration: Option to ship directly to a local installer and schedule installation during checkout. Simplifies the process of “where do I take the tires?” since it’s handled upfront.
• Customer reviews & Q&A: Amazon’s user reviews can be helpful. You can read feedback from other buyers on specific tires (keeping in mind some may not be experts, but it gives a sense of tire performance or any issues). The Q&A section on a tire’s page is useful for specific questions (e.g., “Will this fit a 2018 RAV4?”).
• Competitive pricing and deals: Amazon occasionally offers lower prices or exclusive deals. They might also apply coupons (such as an extra dollar off at checkout) to certain tire listings. And if you have Amazon gift cards or credit card rewards, you can apply those, effectively reducing your cost.

Cons:

• No included road hazards or services: When buying from Amazon, you’re essentially purchasing the product (tire) only. There’s no free road hazard warranty (you rely on the tire manufacturer’s warranty only). And services like rotation or balancing for life are not included – those would be between you and whatever shop you use.
• Installer quality varies: Amazon may list both major chains (e.g., Pep Boys, Midas) and smaller local garages as available installers. The experience can vary, and Amazon doesn’t deeply vet quality beyond basic partnership – so research the shop’s reputation.
• Less expert guidance: Amazon doesn’t specialize in tires, so apart from tire size filters and user reviews, you won’t get the kind of expert testing feedback that Tire Rack provides. If you know exactly what you want, that’s fine; if not, you may need to look up information elsewhere (which many people do, then return to Amazon to make a purchase).
• Limited customer support for automotive issues: If something goes wrong (e.g., you receive a tire with an extremely old date code or a defect), resolving the issue through Amazon can be hit-or-miss. They might simply refer you to the manufacturer. Dedicated tire retailers often handle such issues more directly.

In essence, Amazon is best for those who prioritize ease and speed. If you already do a lot of online shopping on Amazon and trust their service, buying tires from them can be straightforward and even pleasant. You might sacrifice some of the tire-specific perks (no free road hazard coverage, etc.), but you gain the vast reach and convenience of the Amazon platform. For many general car owners, especially those who are comfortable conducting their own research, Amazon is a viable option for finding a good price and purchasing new tires with minimal hassle. Just remember to arrange installation (either through Amazon’s prompts or on your own) – those black round things aren’t much use until they’re mounted on your car!

5. Walmart — Best for Budget-Friendly Installation Packages

Walmart has long been a go-to destination for shoppers seeking low prices, and purchasing tires is no exception. Walmart’s online tire store (Walmart.com or the Walmart app) offers a wide selection of popular tire brands, including Goodyear, Michelin, Bridgestone, Firestone, BFGoodrich, Cooper, and more, often at very competitive prices. What makes Walmart particularly attractive is the all-in-one value you can get: you order the tires (online or in-store), and you can have them installed at your local Walmart Auto Care Center for a low cost, typically much lower than dedicated tire shops charge.

Key benefits: When you buy tires from Walmart online, shipping is free to either your home or directly to a Walmart Auto Care Center of your choice. Many people choose the direct-to-store option because it’s convenient – you’ll schedule an install appointment at that store, and they’ll have your tires ready. Walmart’s installation fees are very affordable, ranging from around $11 to $15 per tire (prices vary by location; recent years have seen an average of about $11, with some stores possibly charging a bit more now). This basic package typically includes mounting, balancing, a new valve stem, and disposal of the old tire. Compared to many tire shops that charge $ 20 or more per tire for the same service, Walmart’s pricing is a bargain.

Moreover, Walmart offers very inexpensive add-on services. Notably, they sell a road hazard warranty for just $10 per tire. For that price, you get coverage for flat repairs and prorated or free tire replacement if the tire is damaged beyond repair (Walmart’s policy is usually if the tire is irreparable in the first 25% of tread life, they’ll replace it for free). $10 is a fraction of what most places charge for similar protection, making Walmart’s optional warranty a great value. Additionally, Walmart doesn’t charge extra for lifetime rotation/balance if you get the installation package – those services are typically included for the life of the tires you bought there.

Pros:

• Low prices on tires: Walmart often has very competitive pricing, and they sometimes carry exclusive value brands or models. They leverage their buying power to offer tires at or below the prices charged by others.
• Free shipping: Tires ship free to your home or to a local Walmart store, no extra cost. This keeps the online pricing straightforward and cheap.
• Cheapest installation fees: Approximately $11-$15 per tire for mounting/balancing are among the lowest in the industry. This can significantly reduce the overall cost, especially for budget-conscious shoppers.
• Affordable road hazard warranty: Only $10 per tire for road hazard coverage – an excellent deal for peace of mind (cheaper than Discount Tire’s and even Costco’s warranty costs).
• One-stop convenience: You can schedule your tire install while doing other shopping. Many Walmart locations offer tire services 7 days a week (though Sunday hours may be limited). If you bought your tires elsewhere, Walmart will still install them for the same price, which is a nice option to have.

Cons:

• Selection not as exhaustive: While Walmart carries many major brands, it might not have some of the ultra-high-performance models or very niche tires. Their focus is on popular sizes and models. Enthusiasts seeking the latest extreme performance tire may not find it here.
• Longer appointment times: Walmart auto centers can be busy and may not specialize solely in tires (they also offer services such as batteries, oil changes, etc.). Installation may take longer, or you may need to wait for an opening. Some reviews note that service speed/quality can vary by store.
• Membership vs non-membership: (Note: Walmart itself doesn’t require a membership, unlike Costco or Sam’s Club, which is a pro for Walmart.) However, Walmart’s service might not include some of the extras that membership clubs offer for free, such as free lifetime balancing and rotation. Although Walmart often performs rotations for free or at a minimal charge if you purchased tires there. It’s just a slightly more bare-bones experience.
• Less expert advice: The expertise of Walmart staff on tires can vary. They’ll get the job done, but if you need consultation on what tire to buy, you might not get specialized advice. This is more of a DIY research and purchase environment.

Overall, Walmart is the best choice for many budget-minded shoppers. If you want a decent tire at a low price and a super affordable installation, it’s hard to beat. The combination of free shipping, cheap installs, and a $10 hazard warranty is incredibly value-packed. For everyday drivers with common tire sizes, Walmart offers everything you need in one convenient location. Just do your homework on which tire you want (you can even find reviews on Tire Rack to inform your decision, then buy it from Walmart if the price is better – I won’t tell!). Walmart shows that buying tires online (and getting them installed) doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

Best Online Tire Retailers Compared Side-By-Side

Below is a comparison of the top online tire stores, highlighting their key features and what distinguishes them. TireRack.com is my #1 pick (best overall), with Discount Tire as the runner-up. We’ve also included other popular options for comparison:

Methodology: How I Chose the Winner

Choosing the best place to buy tires online involved evaluating several key factors for each retailer: price, selection, convenience, added services, and customer support. I started by looking at all the major online tire sellers in the U.S. – including dedicated tire retailers (like Tire Rack, Discount Tire, SimpleTire, TireBuyer), general retailers (Amazon, Walmart), and others like warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club) or manufacturer stores. I narrowed the field to those that serve a broad range of customers, have nationwide availability, and offer competitive offerings.

Here are the criteria and how Tire Rack came out on top:

• Pricing and Deals: I compared tire prices for popular models across various platforms, including shipping costs and any additional fees. Most online retailers had similar base prices (manufacturers often set MAP pricing, and big players will price-match). However, differences emerged in shipping (free vs paid) and warranties. Tire Rack and Discount Tire were consistently competitive in terms of price, and both offer free shipping. I also considered financing options and promotions; many sites offer rebates or credit card promos. All else being equal, Tire Rack’s inclusion of free road hazard protection tipped the scales in its favor on overall value. Other stores would require paying extra for comparable coverage – for example, a 4-tire set could incur $50-$100 in warranty fees elsewhere. That effectively makes Tire Rack’s total price lower for the same product + services. I also noted that Discount Tire’s stores will often match Tire Rack’s online prices, indicating that pricing between those two is aligned by design.
• Selection: I examined how many brands and models each retailer offers and whether they carry specialty tires (ultra-high-performance, off-road, winter, etc.). Tire Rack, SimpleTire, and Discount Tire all have extensive catalogs. SimpleTire had the edge in sheer number of brands (300+), but Tire Rack covers all major brands and many niche ones too, along with wheels and accessories. Amazon and Walmart have large selections, but can sometimes miss specific performance models. Since Tire Rack conducts its own testing and curation, it tends to stock high-quality options in each category. I gave Tire Rack an edge for enthusiasts’ needs (such as competition tires and OEM-specific models) due to their history of catering to those markets, although SimpleTire was a close contender in terms of selection breadth.
• Shipping & Convenience: I evaluated how quickly and conveniently each site delivers the tires to you and gets them onto your car. Factors here included shipping speed, cost, and installer networks. Tire Rack has a robust distribution network, enabling 1-2 day delivery to many areas, which is matched by Discount Tire’s warehouses and SimpleTire’s distributed model. Amazon Prime’s two-day shipping is excellent if the tire is stocked in a nearby fulfillment center. Walmart may take a bit longer (sometimes 2-5 days, depending on stock availability). The option to pick up at a Tire Rack warehouse for an extra discount was unique to Tire Rack, so I factored that in for those who live near one of their centers. The installer network size was also important: Tire Rack lists over 10,000 installers (plus offers mobile installation in some cities), SimpleTire has over 20,000, and Amazon and Discount Tire also have large networks. I found that all the top contenders make installation fairly easy to arrange. However, Tire Rack and Amazon stood out for their integrated scheduling during checkout, and Tire Rack also offered on-site installation at their headquarters or mobile van options.
• Added Services & Perks: This is where Tire Rack really differentiated itself. I specifically examined factors such as included road hazard warranties, return policies, customer support, and any unique services (e.g., roadside assistance). Tire Rack’s free 2-year road hazard protection, which includes roadside assistance, was unmatched – most others either charge extra or don’t offer it at all. Costco (not included in my main list above, but considered) includes road hazard coverage in its member pricing, but that requires a membership and in-person installation. Walmart’s cheap hazard warranty is notable at $10/tire, but it’s still not free. I also considered return/exchange policies: Tire Rack allows returns within 30 days (provided the item is unused), which is fairly standard; Discount Tire Direct used to allow 30-day returns as well. Amazon sometimes allows returns on unmounted tires within a window (depends on the seller). Customer service reputation was taken into account – e.g., Tire Rack has knowledgeable representatives and even phone support to help with orders, while some marketplaces, like Amazon, rely more on self-service. Overall, Tire Rack’s package of perks (including a free warranty and a testing knowledge base) puts it ahead in this category.
• Reputation and Reviews: Lastly, I examined what real customers and automotive experts have to say. I read user reviews and forum discussions about these retailers – for example, many enthusiasts on forums praise Tire Rack’s service and expertise, and also use Discount Tire (particularly in-store) for its customer service. I noted any red flags (like reports of old stock tires being shipped – an unsubstantiated claim I saw directed at Tire Rack in one forum, which was largely debunked). Generally, all the top picks have solid reputations. Tire Rack has a decades-long history of positive feedback and is recognized for its accuracy and support. Discount Tire is recognized for its exceptional customer service, available both in-person and online. SimpleTire has a newer but growing positive reputation for good deals and quick service. I felt confident recommending these based on the balance of reviews.

Using the above criteria, I assigned a score to each retailer. TireRack.com emerged as the winner because it led or tied in almost every category: its prices are among the best (especially when factoring in the free hazard coverage), its selection and speed are top-notch, and its additional perks and company expertise are superb. Discount Tire was a very close second, mainly because it shares many of the same strengths, but falls short in the “included extras” category (since it charges for warranties) and in the fact that its online arm is now essentially the same as Tire Rack itself. I then rounded out the list with other options that excel in certain areas (selection, convenience, or value).

Our methodology involved putting ourselves in the shoes of the tire buyer: who offers the best combination of cost savings, ease of use, and peace of mind? Tire Rack, backed by Discount Tire, checked all those boxes, making it the clear top choice for buying tires online in 2025.

General Pricing Trends and Tips

Since I are nearing the end of the article, it is worth noting some general trends in tire pricing and some tips when shopping online:

• Tire prices have been increasing in recent years due to factors such as rising raw material costs and the growing demand for larger vehicle tire sizes. For example, in 2021, rubber shortages and high demand led to a year-over-year increase of approximately 6.2% in tire prices. In 2025, prices remain elevated, especially for big SUV or truck tires. Shopping online can help you find deals despite these trends – always look for rebates (many manufacturers offer $50–$100 off when you buy a set during promotional periods) and consider retailers that offer price matching.
• Many online retailers have similar base pricing, so pay attention to the “out the door” cost. Factor in shipping (if any), installation, and warranties. Sometimes a tire may be $5 cheaper on one site, but if that site charges $50 shipping, it’s actually more expensive. That’s why I loved Tire Rack’s and Discount Tire’s free shipping policies and why Walmart’s cheap install can tilt the math in their favor if you use their service.
• Use price matching to your advantage. If you prefer one retailer but see a lower price at another, don’t hesitate to contact customer service. As noted, Discount Tire stores will often beat or match Tire Rack’s price on the same tires. Many local tire shops will also try to match online prices if you show them the information. This means you can enjoy the convenience of local service at the same price as online – the best of both worlds.
• Consider total value, not just price. For example, getting free road hazard protection from Tire Rack could save you money down the line if you get a flat. Or buying from Costco (if you’re a member) includes rotations and balancing in the price. Always consider the services that are bundled (or not bundled) with your purchase. A cheap tire bought online might cost more after you pay for installation and add-ons, whereas a slightly pricier tire at a club store might include everything. my top pick, Tire Rack, strikes a great balance by giving a valuable extra at no charge while keeping prices low.
• Timing and seasonal shopping: If you can plan your tire purchases, look for major sales events. Black Friday, holiday promotions, or spring/fall sales (often aligned with when people swap winter/summer tires) can yield discounts. Online retailers often highlight current rebates (e.g., “Get $70 prepaid card with purchase of 4 Michelin tires”). Tire Rack, for instance, has a Deals section for rebates, which is worth checking. Additionally, purchasing items “out of season” can sometimes be more affordable (e.g., buying winter tires in the spring).
• Don’t forget about local installation arrangements. If you buy online, make sure you have a plan for installation. All the retailers I listed can guide you, but if you live in a very rural area, ensure there’s an installer within a reasonable distance. Sometimes, going with a local dealer might make sense if you don’t have good install options – but that’s increasingly rare as mobile installers and networks expand.

Buying tires online is here to stay, and it’s a smart way to save money and expand your options. The clear winner for me was TireRack.com as my top recommendation for its winning combination of price, perks, and performance, with Discount Tire right behind as a hybrid online/offline solution. Runners-up like SimpleTire, Amazon, and Walmart each offer unique benefits that might appeal depending on what you value most (be it selection, convenience, or upfront cost). By considering the factors outlined above and using my comparison as a guide, you can confidently choose the online tire retailer that best fits your needs – and get rolling on a new set of tires with a little extra cash saved. Safe driving!