A new set of tires is a significant financial investment. So, how do you know when to replace your tires?  If your tires are losing traction in wet weather or losing air pressure more frequently, it may be time to get your tires checked.

If you can’t tell based on performance, it is typically recommended to replace your tires once you have 4/32 inches of tread left or at least every six years after the manufacture date.

There are many different types of tires to choose from depending on the weather conditions you drive in and how you use your vehicle. For example, all-terrain tires are a good option if you’re using your vehicle for off-roading, whereas passenger tires are a go-to for regular, personal vehicle use.

Overall, you should understand treadwear, traction, speed, and temperature ratings to make an informed decision about what tires are best for your car. You may be considering upgrading to a higher-performance set of tires. Always ask your tire dealer about the benefits of upgrades. Compare these benefits to your driving style and budget to determine whether an upgrade is worth it.

When considering weather conditions, you can choose from all-season, winter, or summer tires. If you live in a climate with four seasons, driving winter tires in the summer and vice versa is not recommended. Therefore, all-season tires are a great option if you don’t want to swap between winter and summer tires as the seasons change. However, investing in winter-specific tires may be wise if you face harsh winters with plenty of snow.

Where can you buy new tires? It’s never a bad idea to shop around and compare offerings and prices before jumping into an expensive tire purchase. If you still service your vehicle at the dealership where you purchased it, chances are you can also buy new tires there.  You can also look at local tire shops or online tire dealers, where you may find a more comprehensive selection and potential sales.

However, keep in mind that when you buy tires online, you will still need to find a local auto maintenance shop or tire shop that can help you install the tires for an additional cost.

Before deciding to purchase tires, check if the business is BBB Accredited. BBB Accredited Businesses have been vetted against BBB’s Accreditation Standards and will operate with your best interests in mind. This can help reassure you that you’re working with a trustworthy company.

You can also search for tire dealers on BBB.org and read customer reviews and complaints to help you decide who to purchase from.

Read more tips from BBB about purchasing tires. For more consumer tips about your car, visit BBB’s Auto HQ.