Buying tires online: Advantages and disadvantages

What are the advantages of buying your tires online?

The main benefit of online tire shopping is savings. Since virtual retailers don’t have garage operating costs, they can offer lower tire prices. Also, by shopping on the Web, you can easily compare prices from multiple retailers instead of being limited to the ones in your area. Specialized websites often offer a wide selection of tire models at different price points.

Buying online therefore provides flexibility and competitive pricing, but this freedom also comes with some limits you should know.

What disadvantages should you consider before buying tires online?

If you decide to buy tires on the Internet, make sure the listed price is in Canadian dollars and consider the following drawbacks:

• No personalized advice: Without guidance from a tire professional, choosing the right tire model for your driving needs becomes more complicated.
• Risk of order errors: Incorrect tire size, load index and/or speed rating.
• No guarantee on tire installation in Canada.
• Limited after-sales support: Returns can be complicated due to the weight and size of the package, refunds may take time, and exchanges can be difficult if an issue arises.

The most common complaints from people who buy tires online are order mistakes and difficulty obtaining a refund.

What criteria should you verify before buying tires online or in-store?

First, do not choose a tire model or brand solely based on the lowest price. Tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road.

Here are the key criteria to check when buying quality tires. You can find this information on the sidewall of your old tires:

• Tire tread pattern
• Tire size
• Load index
• Speed rating

For the last three criteria, make sure they match the specifications on the label located inside the driver’s door frame.

Details to know when buying winter tires

If you’re buying winter tires, check for the mountain snowflake symbol. This icon confirms that the tires meet legal standards and are suitable for winter driving conditions. Remember that winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 1 to March 15 every year.

There are no truly “bad” winter tires, but some may not suit your vehicle or your driving habits. Do you mainly drive in the city, or on snowy rural roads? CAA-Quebec’s Mobility Advisory Services, available exclusively to members, can help you choose the best winter tires for your vehicle and ensure safe driving.

Where can you get tires purchased online installed?

You can have your online tires installed at most garages, mechanical workshops, or tire centres. Many online tire retailers even offer direct shipping to a partner garage to simplify installation.

Precautions to take to secure your online tire purchase

Here are the essential checks before completing your online transaction:

• Retailer reputation: read reviews from other customers.
• Sales and return conditions.
• Fine print and exclusions: some offers exclude warranties or hide additional fees.
• Prices that seem too low: these may indicate used tires, tires stored for too long, or clearance tires without warranty.

Key takeaways before buying your tires online

Buying your tires online is a good idea if you know exactly what you’re looking for and the specifications of your vehicle. Before ordering, take the time to confirm dimensions and contact your mechanic—ideally a CAA-Quebec Approved Auto Repair Service—to ensure they will install them.

And most importantly, check your tire pressure right after installation and again after 100km. Proper inflation is essential for handling, braking performance, and tire longevity.