We carry extensive knowledge about tire buying patterns, and we know exactly when you can secure the best deals on quality tires. Tires typically deliver 25,000 to 50,000 miles under normal driving conditions, but smart shoppers understand that timing your replacement purchase can save you hundreds of dollars. This timing becomes critical when you consider the stark reality: driving on worn-out tires makes your vehicle three times more likely to be involved in a crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
At Performance Plus Tire, we've identified that spring and fall consistently offer the best opportunities for substantial tire savings. These seasonal transitions create ideal conditions for savvy shoppers as retailers aggressively discount inventory to make room for new stock. The year-end period brings additional savings through holiday promotions, particularly during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when automotive products receive deep discounts.
Quality tires represent an essential investment in your vehicle's safety and performance. While replacement costs can add up quickly, strategic purchasing eliminates the need to pay premium prices. Whether you're gearing up for harsh winter conditions or preparing for summer adventures, proper timing on your tire purchase delivers substantial savings on high-quality products from trusted brands.
Spring brings more than just warmer weather—it delivers exceptional tire buying opportunities. As winter fades and temperatures rise, tire retailers roll out substantial discounts to attract customers after the traditionally slow winter months. This seasonal shift creates prime conditions for securing quality tires at attractive prices.
The spring tire market explodes with promotional activity as retailers compete for customer attention. These seasonal sales typically feature:
Discounts up to 20% off select tire models
Manufacturer rebates ranging from $60 to $100 on sets of four tires
Special financing options to make purchases more affordable
Major tire brands understand the spring opportunity. Firestone provides up to $80 back via prepaid Mastercard with the purchase of four eligible tires. Other manufacturers match this aggressive approach with rebates between $70-$80 on sets of four select tires after online submission.
Spring represents a strategic inventory transition period for retailers. Stores introduce targeted promotions designed to help drivers prepare their vehicles for warmer driving conditions. These deals typically surface in early spring, well before peak summer driving season creates increased demand.
Ready to find great deals on tires this spring? Visit Performance Plus Tire to explore our seasonal promotions and wide selection.
Multiple market forces converge to make spring an ideal tire purchasing window:
Inventory Transition Period: Retailers aggressively clear winter tire inventory to accommodate spring and summer stock, creating substantial discounts on remaining winter tires. Forward-thinking shoppers can purchase winter tires at reduced prices for storage until the following season.
New Model Introductions: Manufacturers frequently release new tire models in spring, accompanied by introductory prices and rebates. This timing provides access to the latest tire technology at competitive prices.
Lower Demand: Early spring demand typically runs lower since many drivers replace tires before winter. Retailers maintain sales momentum during this quieter period by offering attractive discounts.
Post-Winter Wear Assessment: Winter driving through potholes, ice, and road salt accelerates tire wear. Spring provides the ideal opportunity to evaluate tire condition as snow melts and roads clear.
Changing Road Conditions: The transition from snowy roads to rainy spring conditions requires different tire performance. Winter tires lose efficiency in warmer temperatures, making spring the perfect time to switch to tires designed for milder conditions.
Early spring shopping delivers advantages beyond just competitive pricing:
Wider Selection: Tire retailers maintain broader inventories before peak vacation season begins. This expanded selection allows choice among various brands, models, and specifications without stock limitations.
Shorter Wait Times: Installation appointments remain readily available in early spring compared to summer's peak season. Less waiting time between purchase and installation gets you back on the road quickly.
Balanced Inventory Mix: Spring inventories feature both winter clearance models and newly arrived all-season and summer tires. This diverse selection provides options for different driving needs and preferences.
New Technology Access: Spring tire introductions frequently showcase the latest advancements in tire technology. Manufacturers release their newest innovations with the changing season, giving spring shoppers first access to improved performance features.
When examining spring tire options, consider your specific driving conditions. All-season tires perform well in most weather conditions, providing solid traction on wet roads and moderate performance in occasional light snow. Those prioritizing handling and performance will find summer tires offer enhanced traction and corner grip without sacrificing comfort.
Spring shopping creates an ideal window before summer travel season increases demand. As people prepare for vacations and summer road trips, tire prices often rise with increased demand. Early spring purchases help avoid seasonal price increases while ensuring your vehicle stays properly equipped for warmer months ahead.
Spring offers excellent tire deals, but fall delivers equally compelling opportunities for smart tire shoppers. As temperatures drop and retailers prepare for winter inventory transitions, significant savings emerge across all major tire categories. Fall deserves serious consideration when determining the cheapest month to buy tires for your vehicle.
Fall clearance events create substantial opportunities for budget-conscious drivers seeking quality tires at reduced prices. Retailers need to move existing inventory to accommodate incoming winter stock, which drives aggressive pricing strategies across the industry.
The driving forces behind these sales are clear:
Inventory turnover: Retailers aggressively clear summer and all-season tire inventory to make room for winter stock, creating exceptional opportunities for smart buyers
Previous season models: Overstocked or previous season's models receive deeper discounts as stores move merchandise quickly
New model introductions: Tire manufacturers release new models in autumn with special promotions to generate interest
These market conditions favor consumers significantly. SimpleTire offers discounts up to 20% off during its Tire Care Sale until October 26, 2025. Les Schwab provides savings up to $120 off on select sets of All-Weather and All-Terrain styles between September 15 and November 1, 2025.
Major manufacturers support fall sales with substantial rebate programs:
Hankook provides up to $100 rebate via prepaid Mastercard when purchasing a set of 4 select tires between September 1st and November 30th
Toyo Tires offers up to $100 on a prepaid Mastercard for eligible tire sets purchased between October 1st and October 31st
Laufenn delivers a $50 rebate via prepaid Mastercard with the purchase of 4 select tires from September through November
Looking for fall tire deals? Check out Performance Plus Tire for special seasonal discounts and prepare your vehicle for winter.
Fall tire purchases represent smart planning that delivers both economic and safety benefits. Rather than waiting until winter weather arrives, proactive fall shopping allows drivers to:
Beat the winter rush: Buying winter tires before the first snowfall ensures better availability and typically better prices
Access wider selection: Earlier shopping provides access to broader product ranges before popular models and sizes become scarce
Ensure safety: Having winter tires ready before cold weather arrives prepares vehicles for icy or snowy conditions
Those living in regions with harsh winters particularly benefit from fall tire transitions. Consumer Reports notes, "No matter where you live, fall is a good time to check your tires, especially if you'll soon be facing rain, snow, and ice".
Winter tires deliver superior performance in challenging conditions. Consumer Reports testing confirms they "provide an added margin of grip to stop, start, and corner far better than typical all-season tires on snow". This performance advantage benefits all vehicle types regardless of drive configuration.
Timing remains crucial for optimal selection. As fall progresses, winter tire options become limited because "winter/snow tires are made in the off-season. So as inventories dwindle going into winter, your choices might become very limited".
Fall tire maintenance includes monitoring tire pressure changes. With falling temperatures, "tire pressure will drop about 1 psi for every 10º F drop in air temperature". Monthly pressure checks become especially important during autumn's temperature fluctuations.
October and November stand out as prime tire-buying months based on industry data and retailer patterns. These months align with natural buying cycles and retailer promotional strategies.
October represents ideal timing for winter tire purchases as drivers in colder climates typically make the switch in October or November to prepare for winter conditions. Retailers align promotions with this buying cycle, creating competitive conditions that benefit consumers.
November extends these promotional opportunities while adding Black Friday sales that frequently include automotive products like tires.
The advantages extend beyond pricing:
Installation availability: Early fall shopping means shorter wait times for installation appointments compared to the rush following the first snowfall
Preparation time: Early purchases allow tire installation before hazardous winter conditions arrive
Inventory completeness: Season-early shopping ensures access to complete size ranges and model options
Online tire retailer Tire Agent confirms that "the best times of year to find tire deals are spring and fall, when drivers swap out their tires for the season and retailers offer incentives and discounts to make room for new inventory".
Major tire retailers support fall promotions through educational campaigns. SimpleTire and Car Talk publish "educational content, checklists, insights, and lighthearted reminders across their social media platforms to keep tire maintenance top of mind for drivers" throughout October.
Fall represents a strategic purchasing window that combines competitive pricing, ample selection, and proper timing before winter challenges arrive. By purchasing tires in October or November, drivers secure quality tires at reduced prices while ensuring their vehicles remain safe and reliable throughout the changing seasons.
Holiday shopping extends far beyond clothing and electronics—major tire manufacturers and retailers deliver substantial discounts during key shopping periods throughout the year. These limited-time promotions frequently represent the best time to buy tires for customers seeking maximum value.
Black Friday, falling on November 29 in 2024, launches the Christmas shopping season with remarkable tire discounts. This post-Thanksgiving event consistently delivers some of the year's most aggressive tire pricing.
Black Friday appeals to tire shoppers because:
Discounts up to $200 off when purchasing a set of four tires between November 1st and December 2nd
Automatic application of discounts without requiring coupon codes
Availability of popular brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone with instant savings up to $80
Cyber Monday follows on December 2, 2024. Retailers shift their focus to online sales, creating even more compelling tire deals:
Savings of up to $250 on sets of four tires during the December 2-8 promotion period
Combined instant savings of up to $160 on tire and wheel packages
Opportunities for additional savings through exclusive online-only promotions
Many retailers describe their Cyber Monday promotions as their "biggest sale of the year" and "once-a-year" tire deals. These significant discounts make late November through early December an excellent period to consider tire replacements.
Don't miss out on our holiday tire promotions! Visit Performance Plus Tire to take advantage of our special seasonal offers.
Labor Day weekend presents another prime opportunity in the yearly calendar of when tires go on sale. Taking place in early September, these sales help retailers transition their inventory:
Deep discounts on top brands with savings of up to $100
Fast and free shipping to installation locations
Complementary road hazard protection for qualifying purchases
Labor Day sales frequently feature discounts up to 40% off site-wide, positioned as "the final splash of summer savings". These promotions typically include instant savings, rebates, and discounted tire installation services.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer in late May, presenting another strategic buying window:
Savings up to $80 on select tire brands and models
Free shipping to tire shops nationwide
Complimentary road hazard protection on qualifying purchases
Tire retailers often frame Memorial Day as the ideal time to prepare vehicles for summer road trips, with many offering both online and in-store deals. Installation services remain readily available with every tire purchase during these holiday promotions, streamlining the process for consumers.
Staying informed about upcoming promotions ensures you purchase tires at their lowest prices. Several effective strategies can help track the best time of year to buy tires:
Sign up for notifications: Major retailers like Goodyear offer email alerts specifically for holiday promotions, keeping you informed about upcoming Cyber Monday and other seasonal deals
Check manufacturer websites: Brands maintain dedicated promotion pages that list current and upcoming offers:
TireRack's Special Offers page showcases ongoing deals and rebates
Discount Tire's Promotion section highlights seasonal discounts
Follow social media accounts: Retailers and tire manufacturers frequently announce flash sales and limited-time offers through their social channels first
Monitor price guarantee policies: Some retailers, including Discount Tire, offer to beat any advertised deal—even during major holiday promotions
Holiday promotions provide predictable windows of opportunity for substantial savings on tire purchases. While spring and fall represent excellent seasonal buying periods, these specific holidays—Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Labor Day, and Memorial Day—often feature the year's most aggressive discounts.
The answer to what is the cheapest month to buy tires varies based on your specific needs and timeline. The days surrounding these major shopping holidays consistently offer exceptional value through a combination of direct discounts, mail-in rebates, and complementary services like free shipping and road hazard protection.
December represents one of the most overlooked opportunities in the tire shopping calendar. While most shoppers focus on traditional holiday sales, we've discovered that the final month of the year consistently delivers exceptional tire bargains through inventory clearance events and generous manufacturer rebates.
At Performance Plus Tire, we understand the market conditions that create December's unique buying advantages. Retailers face year-end pressures that work directly in your favor as they prioritize clearing inventory over maintaining premium prices.
December creates several distinct advantages for tire shoppers:
Reduced Shopping Competition — Most drivers complete their winter tire purchases in October and November, leaving December with significantly lower demand. This decrease creates opportunities for better pricing as retailers work to maintain sales momentum during traditionally slower periods.
Year-End Inventory Pressure — Retailers prefer moving tires at discounted prices rather than carrying excess stock into the new fiscal year. This accounting reality drives aggressive December pricing strategies across the tire industry.
Extended Holiday Promotions — Many retailers actually deepen their discounts as Christmas approaches, offering better deals than their Black Friday promotions to clear remaining inventory.
Pre-Audit Clearance — Tire retailers conducting January inventory assessments create strong motivation to reduce stock counts through December promotions.
For those asking what is the cheapest month to buy tires, December deserves serious consideration. Unlike seasonal transitions that focus on specific tire categories, December sales typically encompass all tire types — from performance models to all-season options.
Ready for year-end savings? Browse our clearance inventory and rebates at Performance Plus Tire for the best end-of-year tire deals.
December clearance sales offer diverse tire options at substantially reduced prices. We've seen these end-of-year discounts consistently include:
Low-stock tires with limited remaining inventory
Discontinued models being phased out
Seasonal closeouts from previous seasons
These clearance tires maintain identical quality and performance standards as full-price counterparts. As one major retailer confirms, "these quality tires still deliver secure performance and excellent traction despite their rock-bottom pricing - these tires are just as good as non-discounted ones".
Year-end rebate programs frequently offer higher cash-back amounts than standard seasonal promotions. These manufacturer-backed incentives feature structured savings opportunities:
Tiered Rebate Programs based on purchase quantity and tire model. Some programs provide up to $100 back on standard purchases or up to $200 back when using the manufacturer's credit card.
Graduated Savings Levels where different tire models qualify for different rebate amounts:
Premium models: $100 back or $200 back with credit card
Mid-tier models: $80 back or $180 back with credit card
Economy models: $60 back or $160 back with credit card
These rebates require purchasing a minimum of four eligible tires to qualify. Submission deadlines typically extend one month beyond the promotion end date, providing ample time to complete the rebate process.
Maximizing December savings involves combining clearance pricing with manufacturer rebates. Store-specific credit cards unlock enhanced savings potential, with programs offering 6-month financing on purchases over $250.
Access maximum December discounts through these strategies:
Create retailer accounts — Some retailers reserve maximum discounts for registered users. As noted, "To access maximum level discounts, customers need to create an account and have to be signed-in".
Subscribe to promotional emails — Retailers offer exclusive year-end promotions through email lists, providing early access to limited inventory clearance events.
Combine rebates with instant savings — December often features both instant discounts and mail-in rebates simultaneously, unlike other seasons.
Consider financing options — Year-end credit promotions frequently include special terms like zero interest or extended payment periods.
The combination of inventory clearance motivation, manufacturer rebates, and special financing makes December exceptionally advantageous for tire purchases. For budget-conscious shoppers willing to research available programs, December truly represents a hidden gem in the annual cycle of when tires go on sale.
Smart tire shopping isn't just about catching seasonal sales — it's about avoiding the premium costs that come with emergency replacements. Planning ahead protects both your budget and your safety on the road. Understanding when to start your tire search leads to significant savings and better selection.
Emergency tire replacements come with a hefty premium that smart shoppers can easily avoid. When you're faced with a blowout or dangerous tire condition, you lose all negotiating power and the ability to shop for deals. Without the luxury of comparing prices or waiting for sales, you'll pay more out of urgent necessity.
The financial impact extends far beyond just the tire price. These emergency situations create a cascade of expensive problems:
Decreased fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance
Reduced handling capabilities that compromise driving safety
Potential for costly blowouts requiring towing and roadside repairs
Underinflated tires alone can reduce gas mileage by 3% or more. When you wait too long to replace tires, a predictable maintenance expense becomes an urgent, high-cost emergency that hits your wallet hard.
Start researching replacement tires when your tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch. At this measurement, traction becomes significantly compromised, particularly your resistance to hydroplaning. However, you still have enough tread to drive safely while shopping for the best deals.
Your local mechanic can provide guidance during routine maintenance, or you can perform regular inspections yourself. Set calendar reminders to check your tires monthly and before any long trips. This consistent monitoring helps you identify the sweet spot between necessity and savings — when your tires approach replacement thresholds just as seasonal sales begin.
Maintaining proper tire care extends the life of your current set:
Keep tires properly inflated with monthly pressure checks
Rotate tires every 5,000-7,000 miles
Check alignment every few months
These practices give you valuable time to watch for promotions while maximizing your current tires' lifespan. Consumer Reports experts recommend that "to get the best price, start shopping before you need to replace the tires urgently".
Several simple methods help determine when to start shopping for new tires:
Tread depth gage — This $5 tool available at auto parts stores provides the most accurate reading. Check tread depth at three spots across the tire width to account for potential uneven wear.
Quarter test — Insert a quarter upside down into your tire tread. If you can see the top of Washington's head, it's time to start planning for new tires. This indicates you've reached about 4/32" of tread remaining.
Penny test — If you can see the top of Lincoln's head when inserting a penny upside down, you've reached the legally unsafe limit of 2/32" and need immediate replacement.
Begin your tire search when measurements show 4/32" of tread remaining. At this point, stopping distances have already begun to deteriorate significantly. Research from AAA reveals that driving on relatively worn tires at highway speeds in wet conditions can increase average stopping distances by a staggering 43% (an additional 87 feet) compared with new tires.
While seasonal sales influence what is the cheapest month to buy tires, your vehicle's specific needs should determine the final timing. Starting your search early ensures you can take advantage of the best time of year to buy tires without compromising safety or paying emergency premiums.
We've organized the essential information about tire buying seasons into a clear reference guide. This comparison helps you identify the best opportunities based on your specific timeline and needs.
| Timing Period | Best Buying Window | Typical Discounts | Key Advantages | Notable Promotions/Rebates | Buying Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Early spring before summer | Up to 20% off | - Wider selection available - Lower demand period - New model introductions |
$60-$100 rebates on sets of four tires Up to $80 back via prepaid Mastercard (Firestone) |
- Post-winter wear assessment ideal - Better installation appointment availability |
| Fall | October-November | Up to 20% off | - Beat winter rush - Wide selection - Pre-winter preparation |
Up to $120 off select sets (Les Schwab) Up to $100 rebate (Hankook) |
- Important for winter preparation - Monitor tire pressure with temperature changes |
| Holiday Promotions | Black Friday/Cyber Monday | Up to $200-250 off sets | - Aggressive pricing - Online & in-store deals - Multiple brands on sale |
Up to $160 on tire/wheel packages Free shipping offers |
- No coupon codes needed - Combined savings opportunities |
| End-of-Year | December | Varies by retailer | - Lower consumer demand - Inventory clearance - Year-end accounting benefits |
Up to $200 back with credit card 6-month financing on $250+ |
- Combine rebates with instant savings - Consider financing options |
| Pre-Need Purchase | When tread depth reaches 4/32" | N/A | - Avoid emergency pricing - Time to compare prices - Negotiating power |
N/A | - Regular tread depth checks - Monthly tire inspections - Monitor for seasonal sales |
At Performance Plus Tire, we recommend using this guide alongside your vehicle's specific needs. The best deal means nothing if your tires become unsafe before you can take advantage of seasonal pricing. Regular tread depth monitoring ensures you can plan purchases around these optimal buying windows while maintaining proper vehicle safety.
Smart tire shopping delivers substantial savings while ensuring your vehicle's safety and performance remain uncompromised. Our exploration reveals that spring and fall consistently offer the most attractive pricing as retailers aggressively clear inventory during seasonal transitions. Major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Memorial Day provide additional windows of exceptional value for budget-conscious shoppers.
December emerges as an overlooked opportunity in the tire purchasing calendar. Year-end accounting pressures and inventory clearance create surprisingly generous discounts during this quieter shopping period. However, the absolute best time to buy tires depends on your specific driving needs and regional weather conditions.
The most critical insight involves proactive planning rather than reactive purchasing. Emergency tire replacements force you into premium pricing situations with limited negotiating power. Regular tread depth monitoring using simple quarter or penny tests allows you to anticipate replacement needs and align purchases with seasonal promotions.
Strategic tire shopping extends well beyond cost savings alone. Properly maintained tires with adequate tread depth dramatically improve stopping distances, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle control. These performance benefits directly impact your safety and your wallet through reduced fuel costs and accident prevention.
Regional factors influence optimal purchase timing significantly. Drivers facing harsh winter conditions benefit from fall tire purchases to ensure proper preparation. Those in milder climates can focus primarily on securing the lowest prices throughout the year.
Quality tire shopping balances cost considerations with safety requirements to ensure peak vehicle performance under all conditions. Understanding seasonal sales patterns and planning accordingly helps you make financially sound decisions while maintaining optimal safety standards.
Ready to find the perfect tires at the right price? Visit Performance Plus Tire for our current promotions and extensive selection of quality tires from trusted brands.
Smart tire shopping can save you hundreds of dollars while ensuring your vehicle's safety and performance. Here are the essential insights for timing your tire purchases:
Spring and fall offer the best tire deals - retailers clear inventory during seasonal transitions, providing discounts up to 20% off plus manufacturer rebates of $60-$100.
Holiday promotions deliver maximum savings - Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Memorial Day sales feature the year's most aggressive pricing with discounts up to $250 off tire sets.
December is an overlooked bargain month - year-end inventory clearance and accounting practices create hidden opportunities for substantial tire discounts.
Buy before you need them to avoid emergency pricing - start shopping when tread depth reaches 4/32" to maintain negotiating power and access seasonal sales.
Proactive planning prevents costly emergencies - worn tires make vehicles three times more likely to crash and reduce fuel economy, making timely replacement both safer and more economical.
The key to maximizing tire savings lies in monitoring your tire condition regularly and aligning your purchases with these predictable seasonal sales cycles. By planning ahead rather than waiting for emergency replacements, you'll secure quality tires at the lowest possible prices while maintaining optimal vehicle safety.
Spring and fall are typically the best seasons to purchase tires. During these transitional periods, retailers often offer significant discounts and promotions as they clear out inventory to make room for new stock.
While prices can vary, October and November tend to offer excellent deals as retailers prepare for winter inventory. Additionally, April and May often feature spring sales as stores transition to summer stock.
To save money, look for seasonal sales, manufacturer rebates, and holiday promotions like those on Black Friday or Memorial Day. Also, consider buying tires before you urgently need them to avoid paying premium prices for emergency replacements.
Major holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day often feature substantial tire discounts. However, don't overlook end-of-year sales in December, which can offer hidden bargains as retailers clear inventory.
Start researching replacement tires when your tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch. You can check this using a tread depth gage or the simple quarter test. This gives you enough time to shop for deals while your current tires are still safe to drive on.
