Buying Used- Tire Information

​What to Look for When Buying Used Tires Off Kijiji
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All too often we want to be proactive and buy used to save money. Although buying used tires is economical, it is not always obvious what you are getting into. Read on to find out more about what to check for when buying used tires.
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​Size Matters

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​Check what tire size your vehicle requires before you begin your search. You can check your tire size on the sticker located on the inside of the driver side door panel.

DOOR PANEL
STICKER: 

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*note: this image does not reflect the given example and is only for reference

In this example, we can see that the tire size is 255/55R18. 
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The first number, 255, is the measurement in millimeters taken from the outside of the outer wall to the outside of the inner wall of the tire. To better understand where this measurement is taken from, imagine cutting the tire in half and measure from the fattest points of the rubber.

The 55 is the aspect ratio of the tire given as a percentage. It is the sidewall height (from the bead where the tire seats on the rim to the tread surface) as a percentage of the tire width.
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The last number, 18, is the diameter of the rim in inches.

​Once you are familiar with these measurements, you can begin your search. Any tire for sale that has a dimension bigger or smaller than the one shown on your vehicle should be checked by your dealership to ensure the percent differential is within the 3% allowance mark.
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Condition:

​Once you have mastered down the understanding of the correct tire size for your vehicle, you can begin searching online. The quality of the tires is very important when buying used compared to new. Don’t be shy to ask the seller to send you photos of each tire each side of the tires. You may also ask for some close up photos to see if there is any cracking happening in the rubber. Taking this step can save you a lot of time.

What to look for:
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    1- The “DOT” marking on the tire is the week and year the tire was manufactured. Try to buy tires that are less than 5 years old to ensure the rubber has not deteriorated.

2- Inspect the tire tread depth on all 4 tires. Do they meet the requirement? Click here to read more about tire tread depth. 

3- Outer and inner wall should have no deep scratches or bulges. Also, try pinching or pushing at the rubber, there should be no signs of micro cracks. Check for any patches or plugs. A punctured tire may not last as long as a fully intact tire.

​4- Make sure your tires are a matching set. They should be the same size (width and aspect ratio) and have similar tread wear and a similar tread pattern.
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Tips:

Always maintain the recommended tire pressure (indicated on the sticker located on the inside of the driver side door panel).

Ask your tire technician to rotate your tires in pairs. The two front tires change place with the pair in the back. This ensures tread depth is balanced on the axel.

Tires should not be stored outside in the sun. The UV’s accelerate the deterioration of the rubber. Store in your garage or shed.

Don’t be shy to call an expert to ask simple questions. It could save you!