How much do 4 new tires usually cost? This question hits your wallet harder than most vehicle maintenance expenses.
You can expect to pay between $400 to $1,280 for a complete set of four new tires. This price range reflects the vast differences in tire types, sizes, and quality levels available today. Basic 15-inch tires for a sedan might cost around $80 to $150 per tire, while larger 20-inch tires for trucks or SUVs can easily reach $250 per tire.
New tires typically last from 25,000 to 50,000 miles, making them a crucial investment in your vehicle's safety and performance. Savvy shoppers who take time to negotiate can save an average of $37 per tire, with more than half saving $100 or more on their purchase.
We'll break down exactly what factors influence tire pricing, when to buy for maximum savings, and how to handle additional costs that might surprise you at the tire shop. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or premium performance tires, we'll help you understand what you'll really pay before you make your purchase.
A complete set of four new tires typically costs between $460 and $1,280 before installation and additional services. This substantial range reflects the huge selection of options available in today's tire market.
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Image Source: J.D. Power
The industry average price for a single tire currently stands at $192, making a standard set of four approximately $768. This reflects the broad middle ground across all tire categories and vehicle types.
Budget-conscious drivers can find basic all-season tires (15-16") running $90-$150 each, totaling $360-$600 for a complete set. Small car owners typically pay between $60-$120 per tire, while SUV owners face costs of $100-$250 per tire. Truck owners experience the highest costs, with heavy-duty options ranging from $120-$300+ each.
Tire type creates significant price variations:
All-season tires: $50-$870 per tire ($200-$3,480 for a set)
Winter tires: $60-$1,310 per tire ($240-$5,240 for a set)
Summer tires: $80-$1,490 per tire ($320-$5,960 for a set)
Tire size plays a crucial role in final costs. A smaller 185/65R15 tire might cost around $85-$110, while a larger 275/60R20 could reach $180-$250. The size difference directly impacts material costs and manufacturing complexity.
The numbers tell the story clearly - tire costs vary dramatically based on your vehicle's requirements and your performance expectations. Understanding these baseline prices helps you budget effectively and spot genuine deals when they appear.
Several key factors influence what you'll ultimately pay for new tires. Your vehicle type determines baseline costs—compact cars typically require less expensive tires than SUVs or trucks.
Tire performance categories create substantial price differences. Standard all-season tires represent the most affordable option, followed by winter tires, with performance and specialty tires commanding premium prices. Performance tires designed for speed and handling can cost $150-$300 each, while off-road or all-terrain options range from $150-$350 per tire.
Tire size dramatically affects price—generally, the larger the tire, the higher the cost. This explains why many truck and large SUV owners face significantly higher replacement expenses.
Brand reputation influences pricing as well. Premium manufacturers typically charge more but often deliver longer tread life warranties, potentially offering better long-term value despite higher initial costs. At Performance Plus Tire, we understand that choosing the right balance between upfront cost and long-term performance is essential for making the best tire investment for your vehicle.
Timing your tire purchase strategically can yield significant savings. Spring (March/April) and fall (October/November) represent prime seasons for tire deals, as retailers offer incentives during seasonal changeover periods.
These discount periods align with when drivers in colder regions swap between winter and all-season tires. Many retailers also promote special offers ahead of summer travel season when drivers prepare for vacation road trips.
Major holidays provide another opportunity for savings. President's Day, Labor Day, Black Friday, and Christmas typically feature promotional pricing from major retailers. Manufacturers like Michelin offer seasonal rebates, with approximately one promotion per quarter.
Start shopping before you absolutely need new tires. This approach allows time to research options, compare prices, and wait for optimal promotional periods. Nearly half (49%) of Consumer Reports members received free road-hazard warranties by timing their purchases carefully.
We recommend monitoring prices during these key periods to maximize your savings. The difference between emergency tire purchases and planned seasonal shopping can save you hundreds of dollars on a complete set.
Good quality all-season tires last between three and five years for drivers covering 12,000-15,000 miles annually. Most all-season tires endure between 55,000-85,000 miles under normal conditions.
Premium offerings demonstrate exceptional longevity. Consumer Reports testing found that family-car tires readily last 70,000 miles or more. Two top-rated Michelin models (the Defender2 all-season and CrossClimate2 all-weather) projected extraordinary lifespans of 100,000 and 95,000 miles respectively.
Performance tires wear more quickly. Ultra-high-performance models may only last 25,000-30,000 miles, with many summer tires carrying no warranty coverage.
Proper maintenance dramatically extends tire life. Regular rotation, alignment, and pressure checks can effectively double a tire's lifespan. Neglect can reduce longevity by half or more. Regardless of tread condition, manufacturers typically recommend replacing tires after 10 years due to rubber degradation.
Installation adds a significant expense to your total tire replacement costs. Labor charges for mounting and balancing typically range from $50-$300 for a complete set. Most retailers break this down into separate services:
Mounting: ~$11-15 per tire
Balancing: ~$15 per tire
Road-hazard warranty: ~$10 per tire
At major retailers like Goodyear, installation packages for four tires run approximately $99.80, including mounting, balancing, and TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) kit. Similar pricing appears at Walmart, where complete installation costs approximately $100.
Consumer Reports members reported a median installation charge of $31 per tire among those who paid for installation. More than half received free installation through promotional offers or loyalty programs.
Additional services often overlooked when budgeting include:
Valve stems/TPMS service: $5-$15 per tire
Wheel alignment: $60-$150
Tire disposal fees: $2-$5 per tire
These extra charges can add $75-$200 to your total, making it essential to get complete pricing before you commit. We recommend asking for an "out-the-door" price that includes all services and fees to avoid surprises at checkout.
Each tire category presents its own price point based on specialized features, making the cost difference between basic all-season tires and premium performance options quite substantial. We'll examine what you'll pay for different tire varieties and what factors drive those costs.
When selecting new tires, the type you choose significantly impacts your total investment. All-season tires, being the most versatile and common option, typically cost between $80-$150 per tire for standard sizes. This means a complete set runs approximately $320-$600 before installation.
Winter or snow tires, designed with special rubber compounds that remain flexible in cold temperatures, generally range from $100-$200 per tire. Premium models like the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 span from $89-$221 per tire, while the high-end Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 can cost between $273-$842 each.
Performance tires, engineered for sports cars and enhanced handling, represent a significant price jump at $150-$300 per tire. The Pirelli P Zero PZ4 Sport exemplifies this premium category, with prices ranging from $160-$1,209 depending on size and specifications.
Off-road or all-terrain options for trucks and SUVs typically cost between $150-$350 per tire. These rugged options prioritize durability and traction on unpaved surfaces over highway comfort.
Several key elements influence the price variations between tire types. Manufacturing materials play a crucial role in determining cost. Natural rubber tires provide excellent traction but often cost more than synthetic alternatives. Many premium tires incorporate specialized compounds like silica and carbon black to enhance durability, subsequently increasing their price.
Tire technology represents another major cost factor. Models with noise-cancelation, fuel-saving technology, or self-patching capabilities command premium prices. Run-flat tires that allow continued driving after punctures typically cost more than standard options.
Tire structure also affects pricing. Tubeless tires generally cost more than those with tubes due to their advanced design and safety benefits. Tire size directly impacts cost - larger diameter tires for trucks and SUVs require more raw materials and typically cost twice as much as comparable smaller versions.
Brand reputation constitutes another significant price determinant. Japanese and European brands like Michelin and Bridgestone typically cost more than their Chinese counterparts. These premium brands often deliver superior longevity, potentially offering better value despite higher initial investment.
Strategic timing can yield substantial savings regardless of which tire type you need. For winter tires, October or November represents the ideal purchase window, as these months precede freezing temperatures when winter tires become necessary. Many retailers offer early-season promotions during this period.
Summer and all-season tires are best purchased in early spring (March/April), particularly when changing out winter tires. This timing aligns with retailers' seasonal inventory transitions, creating favorable pricing conditions.
For specialty tires like all-terrain or performance options, fall clearance events (September/October) provide exceptional opportunities. During these periods, retailers clear existing inventory to accommodate incoming winter stock, often resulting in discounts up to 20% and manufacturer rebates between $60-$100 on sets of four.
December offers overlooked bargains through year-end inventory clearances. Planning purchases well in advance allows you to monitor pricing trends and capitalize on manufacturer rebates, which typically occur quarterly.
Expected longevity varies dramatically across tire categories. All-season tires, designed for balanced performance across various conditions, typically last between 50,000-70,000 miles under normal driving conditions. Premium models from top manufacturers can sometimes extend this range up to 85,000 miles.
Winter tires have substantially shorter lifespans ranging from 20,000-40,000 miles. Their softer rubber compounds, which provide excellent cold-weather traction, wear faster than standard alternatives. To maximize their durability, use them exclusively during winter months and store them properly during off-seasons.
Summer tires offer exceptional warm-weather performance but average only 25,000-30,000 miles before requiring replacement. High-performance tires typically last just 15,000-20,000 miles due to their ultra-soft compounds designed for maximum grip.
Off-road tires face particularly harsh conditions that can reduce their lifespan to 40,000 miles or less, especially with frequent off-pavement use. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6-10 years regardless of tread depth due to natural rubber degradation.
Installation expenses can vary based on the specific tire type and required services. Basic mounting and balancing for standard all-season tires typically costs between $15-$25 per tire. This translates to $60-$100 for a complete set before additional services.
Performance and specialty tires often incur higher installation charges due to their low-profile design and handling requirements. Large truck and SUV tires may require specialized equipment, potentially increasing service fees.
Winter tire installation sometimes includes seasonal storage options at additional cost, though this convenience eliminates the need for home storage. Run-flat tires require specialized mounting equipment and procedures, often resulting in higher installation charges.
Regardless of tire type, alignment represents an essential complementary service costing approximately $60-$100. While this adds to your initial investment, proper alignment substantially extends tire life and improves fuel economy, making it particularly valuable for expensive tire types.
Road hazard warranties, which provide prorated replacements for damaged tires, vary by type. Consumer Reports found median costs of $67 for all-terrain, $54 for all-season, $49 for all-weather, and $47 for performance and winter tires per set of four.
Tire size and brand selection creates the biggest price differences you'll see when shopping for tires. These two factors often determine whether you'll pay $400 or $1,200 for the same set of four tires.
Tire dimensions directly impact what you'll pay. Smaller tires (13"-16" diameter) typically cost between $50-$150 each, perfect for compact cars and sedans. Medium-sized options (16"-18") range from $100-$250 per tire, while large tires (18"-22" or larger) command $150-$350+ each.
Brand tier creates substantial pricing differences. Premium manufacturers like Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, and Goodyear charge the highest prices but often deliver advanced technology and superior warranties. Mid-market brands such as Pirelli, Firestone, and Toyo balance quality with affordability. Value brands like Falken and Nexen target budget-conscious buyers.
Consumer Reports members paid an average of $212 per tire in their latest survey. Yet the same tire model varies dramatically in price across sizes – the popular Michelin Defender ranges from $82 for a small 175/70R13 size to over $201 for a 215/55R17 version.
Material costs represent the main reason larger tires cost more. Bigger tires require significantly more rubber, steel, and specialized compounds. Wider tires need more rubber across their tread surface, while taller sidewalls demand additional material for structural integrity.
Manufacturing complexity escalates costs for larger sizes. Truck and SUV tires require reinforced construction to support heavier vehicle weights. This explains why truck tires typically cost twice as much as comparable passenger car tires.
Brand positioning creates another major cost factor. Premium manufacturers invest heavily in research and development, then charge more to recoup these expenses. This R&D investment often yields real benefits – premium tires demonstrated superior braking performance with 6.1 meters shorter stopping distance in wet conditions compared to budget alternatives.
Geographic origin also impacts pricing. European and Japanese brands like Michelin and Bridgestone typically command higher prices than their Chinese counterparts. Identical tire specifications can vary by 20-30% in price based solely on brand name.
Strategic timing yields substantial savings regardless of size or brand preferences. Premium brands like Michelin offer promotional rebates quarterly, typically $70-$100 back on sets of four. These manufacturer-backed incentives stack with dealer discounts during peak sales periods.
Negotiation works particularly well with specific sizes and brands. Among Consumer Reports survey respondents who negotiated, 63% secured better pricing, with median savings of $37 per tire. Over half saved $100 or more by simply asking for better terms.
Tire longevity varies significantly across sizes and brands, dramatically affecting long-term value. Family-car tires readily last 70,000+ miles according to Consumer Reports testing. Premium options deliver exceptional durability – Michelin's Defender2 and CrossClimate2 models project 100,000 and 95,000 miles respectively.
Brand quality directly impacts lifespan expectations. Hankook leads with the highest warranty at 90,000 miles, while Michelin delivers projected real-world performance of 94,400 miles. Budget brands might deliver only 20,000-30,000 miles before requiring replacement.
Larger tire sizes typically wear faster under identical driving conditions due to increased road contact and weight. Performance-oriented dimensions with low-profile sidewalls generally have shorter lifespans regardless of brand. Many summer performance tires in ultra-high-performance categories show wear patterns indicating just 25,000-30,000 miles of useful life.
Installation expenses increase proportionally with tire size. Mounting and balancing for standard passenger tires typically costs $15-$25 per tire. For larger truck and SUV sizes, these services often rise to $20-$50 per tire due to specialized equipment requirements.
Brand-specific installation requirements sometimes create additional expenses. Premium manufacturers may recommend specific mounting procedures or require special tools for their proprietary designs, potentially increasing service costs.
Price matching presents an effective strategy for controlling installation costs. Installation prices vary widely between retailers, so comparing total out-the-door costs reveals significant differences. For identical Michelin tires in one comparison, total costs (including installation) ranged from $568 to $708 for the same set – a $140 difference based solely on service pricing.
Tire size and brand represent the two most important factors determining what you'll pay for new tires. The dimensions dictate baseline material costs, while brand selection determines technology, warranty coverage, and expected lifespan. Understanding these relationships helps establish realistic budgets for your specific vehicle needs.
Beyond the tire price itself, several additional costs catch many shoppers off guard. These "hidden" expenses often add 15-25% to your total bill, turning what seemed like a straightforward purchase into a much larger investment.
Wheel alignment services typically range from $50 to $168 nationwide. At specialty shops, standard alignment services start at $89.99, while electric vehicle alignments cost substantially more at $199.99.
Tire balancing adds another layer of expense, usually costing $15-$50 per tire. Most shops bundle mounting and balancing together at approximately $22 per tire, meaning you'll pay around $88 for a complete set.
Disposal fees vary by location, with most states charging $1.50-$2.00 per tire. These mandatory fees fund environmentally responsible recycling programs for your old rubber.
Several additional charges can significantly increase your final bill:
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) service kits: $40 per sensor
Valve stems: $2-$5 each
Environmental fees: Approximately $2 per tire
Sales tax: Varies by location, averaging 7% of the total purchase
Road hazard warranties: $32 per tire for standard two-year coverage
Together, these extras can transform an initially reasonable purchase into a substantial expense. For example, four Goodyear Assurance all-season tires priced at $540 would ultimately cost $1,004 after adding all associated services and fees.
Strategic timing helps reduce additional expenses. Unlike tire prices, service charges rarely fluctuate seasonally. Focus on finding retailers that bundle services with your purchase instead.
Many tire shops include mounting and balancing at no extra cost when purchasing tires directly from them. Among Consumer Reports survey respondents, more than half received free installation.
Request detailed "out-the-door" quotes that include all fees and services rather than just the base installation rate. This prevents surprise charges at checkout and enables accurate comparison shopping.
Foregoing certain services might save money initially but often proves costly down the road. Skipping regular wheel alignments leads to:
Decreased vehicle safety and road responsiveness
Higher risk of tire blowouts
Increased repair and replacement costs
Dramatically reduced tire lifespan
Proper alignment helps maintain better road contact, extending tire life and improving traction on slick surfaces. It also reduces tire rolling resistance, resulting in better gas mileage.
Installation packages vary widely between retailers, offering different combinations of services at vastly different price points.
Complete installation packages typically include mounting, balancing, valve stems or TPMS service kits, and a visual inspection. Many retailers also include valuable long-term benefits like free tire rotation, pressure checks, and flat repairs.
Look beyond the initial price to included future services. Nearly half (47%) of surveyed tire buyers received free tire rotation, and an equal percentage got free balancing. About 31% received complimentary flat repairs.
Road hazard warranties represent another value consideration, with median costs of $67 for all-terrain, $54 for all-season, $49 for all-weather, and $47 for snow/winter tires per set of four.
Shopping for tires has changed dramatically in recent years. Online retailers now compete directly against traditional brick-and-mortar stores, creating new opportunities for savings and some potential challenges for shoppers.
Online retailers consistently offer lower prices than physical stores. This price advantage comes from reduced overhead costs—online businesses don't pay for commercial property rent, higher utility costs, and extensive staffing requirements.
Testing confirms that leading online retailers frequently price identical tires within just one dollar of each other—consistently beating physical store prices. Among tire dealers who sell online, 51% report that online sales yield higher profits than in-store transactions.
Real savings example: Online tire retailers provide prices typically 10-15% lower than brick-and-mortar alternatives for identical tire models. Get the best price on your next set of tires at Performance Plus Tire, where lower overhead costs translate directly to consumer savings.
Several considerations determine which channel makes the most sense for your purchase:
Expert guidance: In-store professionals offer personalized recommendations based on your driving terrain, climate, and budget
Selection variety: Online retailers stock more than 80 brands compared to limited local inventory
Immediate needs: Physical stores provide instant availability versus shipping wait times
Payment options: Online retailers offer multiple payment options including buy-now-pay-later plans
Price comparison: Online shopping allows easy price comparisons across multiple vendors
About 17% of Consumer Reports members ordered tires online with shipment to local stores, while only 4% had tires shipped directly home.
Timing strategies work differently for each purchase channel. Online shopping works best during manufacturer rebate periods, which typically happen quarterly, with savings between $60-$100 on sets of four tires.
Physical stores offer seasonal promotions that align with weather changes. Major retailers feature special promotions during Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Planning ahead proves essential—starting your search before you urgently need replacement allows time to monitor both online deals and local promotions.
The purchase channel itself doesn't directly affect tire longevity. However, relationships with local tire shops can impact long-term performance through:
Free ongoing maintenance services (rotation, balancing)
Professional installation quality assurance
Warranty support accessibility
Among surveyed tire buyers, 82% who purchased at physical retailers received at least one free perk or service. These included free tire rotation (47%), balancing (47%), mounting (43%), tire checks (31%), and flat repairs (31%)—services that substantially extend tire lifespan.
Installation experiences differ significantly between purchase paths. When buying online, you'll still need professional installation. Most online retailers offer two delivery options:
Direct home delivery (requiring separate installer arrangements)
Shipping to partner installation centers
Installation pricing varies significantly by channel. While in-store purchases often include installation in package deals, online buyers typically pay separate mounting fees. Among tire dealers surveyed, 53% charge between $76-$100 for installation services, with 33% charging even more.
The key advantage of in-store purchases is relationship building with local shops, which often leads to ongoing service benefits. Physical stores frequently offer free rotation, inspection, and alignment services that online retailers simply cannot match.
This comparison table breaks down the key factors affecting tire costs across different categories. Use this reference to understand what drives pricing and make informed decisions for your specific needs.
| Aspect | Average Cost of 4 New Tires | Tire Type and Price | Tire Size and Brand Impact | Additional/Hidden Costs | Online vs In-Store |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $400-$1,280 total | All-season: $200-$3,480/set Winter: $240-$5,240/set Summer: $320-$5,960/set |
Small (13"-16"): $50-$150/tire Medium (16"-18"): $100-$250/tire Large (18"-22"+): $150-$350+/tire |
Base installation: $50-$300/set Alignment: $50-$168 TPMS: $40/sensor |
Online: 10-15% lower than stores In-store: Higher but includes services |
| Key Factors | - Vehicle type - Tire size - Brand quality - Performance level |
- Manufacturing materials - Technology features - Tire structure - Brand reputation |
- Material costs - Manufacturing complexity - Brand positioning - Geographic origin |
- TPMS service - Valve stems - Environmental fees - Sales tax - Warranties |
- Expertise access - Selection range - Immediacy needs - Payment flexibility |
| Best Time to Buy | Spring (March/April) Fall (October/November) |
Winter tires: Oct/Nov Summer tires: March/April Specialty: Sept/Oct |
Fall clearance events Quarterly manufacturer rebates |
Look for service bundles Request all-inclusive quotes |
Online: During rebate periods In-store: Major holidays |
| Average Lifespan | 25,000-50,000 miles | All-season: 50,000-70,000 miles Winter: 20,000-40,000 miles Summer: 25,000-30,000 miles |
Premium brands: 70,000+ miles Budget brands: 20,000-30,000 miles |
Affected by maintenance and service quality |
Same lifespan regardless of purchase channel |
| Installation Costs | $11-15/tire mounting $15/tire balancing |
Basic: $15-$25/tire Performance: Higher rates Run-flat: Premium rates |
Standard: $15-$25/tire Large sizes: $20-$50/tire |
Mounting: $11-15/tire Balancing: $15/tire Disposal: $2-$5/tire |
In-store: Often included Online: $76-$100+ separate fee |
Replacing all four tires represents a significant investment in your vehicle's safety and performance. Most drivers spend between $400 and $1,280 for a complete set, though your specific costs depend on vehicle requirements and tire choices. All-season options offer the best value for most drivers, while specialized winter or performance tires command premium prices for their unique capabilities.
Strategic timing yields substantial savings, especially during spring and fall promotional periods. Shoppers who negotiate effectively save an average of $37 per tire, with many securing discounts exceeding $100 on their purchase. Hidden costs such as mounting, balancing, and disposal fees can add 15-25% to your final bill, making thorough budgeting essential before you shop.
Get the best price on your next set of tires at Performance Plus Tire, where lower overhead costs translate directly to consumer savings.
Proper maintenance substantially extends tire life – regular rotation, alignment, and pressure checks can effectively double your tires' lifespan under normal driving conditions. These ongoing maintenance practices deliver the greatest long-term value from your tire investment. Armed with the knowledge from this guide, you'll make informed decisions that balance upfront costs against long-term performance, safety, and value for your specific driving needs.
Understanding tire replacement costs helps you budget effectively and avoid surprise expenses at checkout.
• Expect to pay $400-$1,280 for four new tires, with the average single tire costing $192 before installation and additional services.
• Negotiate for savings - 63% of shoppers who negotiated secured better pricing, with average savings of $37 per tire and many saving $100+ total.
• Time your purchase strategically during spring (March/April) or fall (October/November) when retailers offer seasonal promotions and manufacturer rebates.
• Budget for hidden costs like mounting ($11-15/tire), balancing ($15/tire), alignment ($50-168), and disposal fees that add 15-25% to your total.
• Online retailers typically offer 10-15% lower prices than physical stores due to reduced overhead, though in-store purchases often include valuable free services.
• Proper maintenance doubles tire lifespan - regular rotation, alignment checks, and pressure monitoring can extend your investment from 25,000 to 50,000+ miles.
The key to maximizing value lies in balancing upfront costs with long-term performance needs while taking advantage of promotional periods and negotiation opportunities.
The average cost for a set of four new tires typically ranges from $400 to $1,280, depending on factors such as tire quality, size, and vehicle type. The price can vary significantly based on the specific needs of your vehicle and the type of tires you choose.
To save money on new tires, consider shopping during seasonal promotions (usually spring and fall), negotiating the price, and comparing quotes from multiple retailers. Many buyers who negotiate can save an average of $37 per tire, with some saving $100 or more on their total purchase.
When replacing tires, you should budget for additional costs such as mounting ($11-15 per tire), balancing ($15 per tire), alignment ($50-$168), and disposal fees. These extra charges can add 15-25% to your total bill, so it's important to factor them into your budget.
Online retailers typically offer prices 10-15% lower than brick-and-mortar stores due to reduced overhead costs. However, in-store purchases often include valuable services like free rotation and balancing. Consider both options and compare total costs, including installation, when making your decision.
The lifespan of new tires varies depending on factors such as tire quality, driving habits, and maintenance. On average, a good set of all-season tires can last between 50,000 to 70,000 miles. Premium brands may offer even longer tread life, with some models projecting up to 85,000 miles of use under normal driving conditions.
