The Average Cost for a Tire Replacement Is $452-$4,180 Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY.
This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance include tire pressure monitoring system replacement, tire balancing, and wheel alignment. For a more accurate estimate based on your make, model, and location, use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.
Get a more accurate estimate for your tire replacement using RepairPal’s Fair Price Estimator:
Cost at the Mechanic: $452-$4,180
- Parts: $400-$4,000
- Labor: $52-$180
Typically, a professional mechanic takes only 30-45 minutes to change all four tires on a vehicle, and while it’s not a difficult job to remove wheels and tires from a vehicle, tire replacement requires specialized machines for mounting the tires and balancing the wheels. Depending on the type of tires you have and the way you drive, the recommended interval for replacing your tires can range from 25,000 to 80,000 miles. It’s essential to keep up with your tire replacement schedule as it can improve the handling, fuel efficiency, and safety of your vehicle.
Cost to DIY: $400-$4,000
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Parts Needed:
- A set of tires
Replacing the tires on your vehicle is usually an expensive ordeal, but in reality it’s not that hard of a job for a shop due to the equipment required. Unless you’re a DIYer with access to the proper tire equipment, tire replacement is generally not a DIY job. That being said, some shops will let you bring in loose wheels to have the tires replaced, but call in advanced to make sure your intended shop is willing to work with you.
Keep in mind: It’s important to note that tires come in different types and sizes to suit different vehicles and driving needs. If you decide to change your tires yourself, make sure you choose the right ones for your car. Check your owner’s manual to find out what type of tires you should buy.
What Are Tires?
Tires are literally where the rubber meets the road on your car, and they’re constructed of rubber and metal radial cords. Unlike bicycle tires, which feature an inner tube, modern car tires are tubeless, and the amount of air required is completely dependent on the type of vehicle, the manufacturer of the tires, and how you’ll be using the vehicle. Tires serve multiple purposes on your vehicle including traction, handling, and ride quality. Tires provide the desired traction to help your car make proper contact with the road whether it’s wet or dry, and they reduce shocks when driving over uneven surfaces.
What Does a Tire Replacement Service Include?
Unless you have the right equipment, tire replacement can be performed quicker and easier by a repair shop. The easy part of tire replacement is lifting the vehicle and removing the wheels, but the specialized machines are required to remove the old tires from the wheels, mount the new tires, and properly balance the wheels and tires before reinstalling on the vehicle. A professional shop can usually perform a tire replacement in under an hour.
Although it isn’t mandatory, it’s highly recommended that you have your wheels professionally aligned right after changing your tires. This not only improves your vehicle’s handling, but it also makes your tires last longer. You should also ask the mechanic to inspect your tire pressure monitoring system to see if it’s due for a replacement.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Tires?
Driving on worn tires isn’t safe, so you should have your tires inspected regularly to ensure they are in roadworthy condition. Look for areas of dry rotting, uneven wear, excessive wear, and even missing pieces of rubber. If the metal cords are exposed or there is a bulge in the rubber, the tire should be replaced immediately. Any of these conditions can affect how the vehicle handles and how the tires are able to grip the road. Driving on old or worn tires increases the chances that your vehicle could lose control (especially in wet and slippery conditions), which could lead to an accident. Furthermore, worn tires are more likely to go flat, and that could leave you stranded on the side of the road.
Bottom line, if you don’t replace your old or worn tires, you may soon find yourself facing expensive repairs to other areas of your vehicle.
How Often to Get a Tire Replacement
Modern tires can last anywhere from 25,000 to 80,000 miles. You can find out the ideal tire replacement interval for your specific vehicle by checking your owner’s manual or using the free FIXD app. If you’re an aggressive driver or live in an area with poor road conditions, you’ll likely have to change your tires more frequently.
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Common Symptoms You Need to Get a Tire Replacement
Below is a list of signs that may suggest your tires are due for a replacement:
- Low tread depth
- Vibration in the car
- Hydroplaning
- Bent wheel
- Visible tire damage, such as cuts, bulges, and punctures
Related Maintenance Services
The following services are commonly performed with a tire replacement:
- Tire balancing
- Wheel alignment
- Tire pressure monitoring system replacement
Never Miss Important Maintenance Again with FIXD
Get the FIXD Sensor and free app today for a custom maintenance schedule based on your make, model, and mileage. FIXD sends automated maintenance alerts right to your phone so you never forget oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacements, and more. It even tracks tire, wiper, and battery life to keep your car running smoothly. Get FIXD today and take the stress out of car care. It’s that simple.
At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.
