Tire Basics: How to choose, maintain, and get your tires installed
Get the essentials you need to pick the right tires, keep them performing their best, and plan your installation.
Find and compare your tire size
Check the sidewall of your current tires for a size like P215/60R16. If your vehicle has different front/rear sizes, note both. New to reading sidewalls? See How To Check Tire Size.
Compare alternative sizes safely before you switch. Use the Tire Size and Conversion Calculator to see overall diameter, width, and speedometer impact.
When in doubt, match the size on your vehicle’s door placard or owner’s manual for the most accurate fit.
Ready to shop? Browse by vehicle or size and shop tires.
When to replace your tires
Tread depth: Replace by 2/32" (legal minimum in most states). For better wet braking, many drivers choose to replace around 4/32".
Age: Rubber hardens over time. Have tires inspected annually after 6 years, even if tread remains.
Damage or uneven wear: Bulges, cords showing, sidewall cuts, or persistent vibration are signs to replace.
If you’re replacing a set, plan to make an appointment for mounting and balancing.
What’s typically included with tire purchase and installation
Most tire centers include these services with a paid installation package:
Professional mounting and computer balancing
New rubber valve stems or TPMS service kits (as needed)
Hand torque of lug nuts to spec
Tire disposal/recycling
Post-install recheck after the first 25–50 miles (on request)
Many retailers also include lifetime service perks with purchase (details vary by store):
Tire rotations at recommended intervals
Rebalancing if vibration occurs
Flat repair for repairable punctures
Tire pressure checks and visual safety inspections
Ask your store for a quick rundown of what’s included with your installation.
Free tire maintenance services: what you can usually get
Availability can vary by location, but many tire centers—America’s Tire included—offer some services at no charge:
Air pressure checks and adjustments
Tread depth checks and visual safety inspections
Flat tire repair for repairable punctures (often free for everyone; some shops limit this to tires purchased from them)
TPMS light check and simple resets (when related to pressure)
With purchase, you’ll often get additional no-charge, lifetime services from the same store:
Scheduled tire rotations
Rebalancing with rotations or if vibration returns
Ongoing flat repairs for repairable punctures
For anything beyond routine care—like alignments, TPMS sensor replacement, or road-hazard coverage—expect an added fee. Many drivers opt for optional road-hazard protection during checkout for extra peace of mind.
Are free tire services worth it, and where to get them?
Yes—free checks, rotations, and flat repairs can extend tire life, improve safety, and save money over time. You can get them at many tire retailers and service centers. To confirm what your local store offers, find your store and check its services or call ahead.
Simple maintenance checklist
Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles (or per your owner’s manual).
Check pressures monthly and before road trips; adjust to the door placard spec.
Inspect tread and sidewalls monthly; repair punctures promptly.
Balance tires if you feel vibration, and whenever you rotate if needed.
Get an alignment check with new tires or if you notice uneven wear or pulling.
Get started
Compare options and shop tires.
Lock in a time to install: make an appointment.
Have questions or want local availability? Find your store.