Are Used Tires Safe? Please Read This Before Buying Used Tires

With inflation on the rise and gas prices out of control, times are tough for everyone. We get it. That's why people are looking for ways to cut corners and pinch pennies wherever possible, weighing the benefits of buying new vs used tires.

Don't put your safety at risk to save a few bucks. And that's precisely what you would do if you decide to buy used tires instead of new ones.

This post will explain why used tires are a terrible idea and tell you a few things to look for if you just have no other choice.

Things You Should Never Buy Used

A few years ago, Business Insider magazine compiled a list of eight things that you should never buy used. You guessed it: Tires made the list, and we agree. If you're curious about what else made the list:

• TIRES
• Bike helmets
• Cookware
• Laptops
• Mattresses
• Shoes
• Software
• Vacuum cleaners 

Are Used Tires Safe?

Short answer: No.

Long answer: Used tires are not safe because you don't know their history. Safety is the utmost importance when driving, and replacing parts of your vehicle with used parts is never a good idea. Two reasons to avoid used tires: You don't know their history, and tires have expiration dates. Most tires have a shelf life of 5 to 6 years, and for people who live in dry, arid parts of the world, their tires have less. Age, weather and driving style affect treadwear, and when you buy used tires from someone you don't know, you're gambling with your safety.

Consumer Reports warns its readers to avoid used tires at all costs. The trusted consumer advocacy organization had this to say after an investigation into used tires:

"Don’t buy used tires: you don’t know where they have been or how they’ve been used. The tire could have been driven overloaded, underinflated, or to excessively high speed. Any one or a combination of these factors could lead to internal damage not visible from the outside. In short, the used tire could be unsafe."

Should You Buy Used Tires?

Short answer: Again, no. 

Long answer: If you need new tires, there are plenty of affordable options for you, and when you buy tires online from Tire Agent, we have a number of payment plans to help you get the best tires for your vehicle. 

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Your best bet is to buy new tires and refer to DOT codes to ensure they're no more than a couple of years old. Speaking with a tire professional will help you know which models are the safest and most budget-friendly for your ride. Learn how to find your tire's age.

Another reason to avoid used tires is the old saying, penny wise and pound foolish. Since you're putting used tires on your vehicle, they won't last as long as new tires. That means you're going to need to replace them again soon. Not only that, but you typically won't get a warranty on used tires. Tire and wheel warranties typically apply only to the original owner and are not transferrable.

Are Used Tires Worth it?

No. Assume old tires are dangerous. Because you don't know the tire's history, it's not worth the risk.

Next question?

What Is the Best Place for Used Tires?

The best place for used tires is to dispose of them properly. We know that's not what you meant when you asked, but seriously: Get rid of used tires. Buy only new tires. To find a place near you that recycles old, used tires, try a site like 1800gotjunk.com.

What is A Good Tread Depth for Used Tires?

Tread depth is how tires grip the road, and it helps to prevent your vehicle from slipping and sliding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), "tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch."

When looking to purchase used tires, avoid any near the limit of 3/32 of an inch. Even 4/32 of an inch is cutting it close. We have a post on the Tire Agent site explaining how to check tire tread. Tap or click here for DIY tire tread tests.

SHOP NEW TIRES

You should check your tire's tread at least once per month. Especially if you have used tires.

Before you go the used tire route, look for affordable new tires. Tap or click here for our post explaining what the best tires are if you're on a budget.

Remember, safety first. You don't want to risk your family's health to save a few bucks. You can always speak to a tire pro for help with things like budget tires and even payment plans.

Photo 65928 © Wayne Mckown | Dreamstime.com