Tire Appointments: Buying, Rotating and Replacing Tires

Know what you need

Before booking, find your tire size. It is printed on the sidewall of your current tires (a code such as 225/60R17) and on the tire placard, usually on the driver’s doorjamb, which also shows the recommended pressure. Note whether you need new tires, a rotation, a repair for a puncture, a seasonal swap, or an alignment check.

Booking a tire appointment

Tire shops, warehouse clubs, dealers and general repair shops commonly take tire appointments online or by phone. Booking ahead helps at busy times such as the first cold snap of winter. Some retailers let you order tires online and choose an installation slot at the same time.

When you book or buy, ask:

• What does installation include — mounting, balancing, valve stems or sensor service kits, disposal of old tires?
• Is an alignment recommended or included?
• What road hazard protection or warranty is offered, and what does it cost?
• How long will the appointment take?

Before the appointment

• Make sure the wheel-lock key (if your wheels have locking nuts) is in the car.
• Check NHTSA’s recall lookup (external site), which covers vehicles and tires as well as other equipment.
• Remove anything heavy from the trunk if a spare tire is involved.
• Bring your membership card if you are using a membership-based tire center.

At the shop

Point out any vibration, pulling or uneven wear you have noticed — it may indicate alignment or suspension issues. If the shop recommends extra work, ask whether it is needed now and for a written price.

After the work

1. Look at the new tires: the size should match what you ordered.
2. Ask for the tire pressure to be set to the placard figure, and check whether any tire pressure warning light is off.
3. Ask whether the shop recommends re-torquing the wheel nuts after a short distance.
4. Keep the invoice for warranty claims, and note the date and mileage for future rotations.

For other service visits, see car service appointments.