Buy Tires
For many drivers, tire replacement and wheel alignment are two of those car maintenance tasks that feel mysterious, expensive, and easy to put off. After all, if your tires look round and your car still moves, what’s the big deal—right?
Wrong.
The reality is that what you don’t see with your tires and alignment can absolutely cost you—both in money and safety. But the internet is overflowing with half-truths, outdated advice, and outright myths that can make any car owner second-guess what’s really necessary.
Let’s clear the air. Below, we’ll tackle some of the most common myths about tire replacement and wheel alignment, explain what’s really true, and help you make smart, confident choices that keep you safer on the road—and your wallet a little happier.
Myth #1: If My Tires Look Fine, They’re Fine
This is probably the most common tire replacement myth out there. Tires wear out gradually—so gradually that the average driver can easily overlook how much performance and safety they’re losing.
Most people just eyeball their tires for tread depth. But the truth is, a tire can look like it has some tread left and still be well past its prime. Rubber hardens with age, and tires start losing grip long before they look bald.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing tires when tread depth hits 2/32 of an inch. But many experts say that’s far too low for wet conditions—your stopping distance can nearly double compared to new tires.
Also, tire age matters. Even if you don’t drive much, the rubber compounds break down over time. Many manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years, regardless of how they look.
Myth #2: You Only Need to Replace One or Two Tires at a Time
This myth seems budget-friendly—until it isn’t.
Sure, you can replace just one or two tires, but it can lead to problems down the road. Modern vehicles—especially all-wheel drives—are designed to operate with tires that have equal tread depth. Mixing old and new tires can cause uneven wear, poor handling, and even damage your drivetrain.
Replacing all four tires at once ensures that your tires wear evenly and that your car handles as it was designed to. It’s also a perfect time to get a wheel alignment to protect your new investment.
And if cost is a concern, keep an eye out for seasonal promotions that help you save when you buy four tires. (Hint: we’ve got you covered on that front—more on this below.)
Myth #3: Wheel Alignment Is a One-and-Done Service
Many drivers think alignment is a one-time fix—get it done once, and you’re good forever. Not true.
Your car’s wheels can get knocked out of alignment by everyday hazards: potholes, curbs, rough roads, and even minor fender benders. Misalignment doesn’t fix itself—it quietly causes your tires to wear out faster and your car to handle poorly.
Regular alignment checks help catch these issues early. Think of it like a dental cleaning: you wouldn’t skip brushing just because you went to the dentist once, right? Keeping your wheels in spec protects your tires, your suspension, and your wallet.
Myth #4: Wheel Alignment Is Just About the Front Wheels
This is another common misunderstanding.
Years ago, front-end alignments were the norm because most vehicles were rear-wheel drive with simple rear suspensions. But today, many cars and crossovers have independent rear suspensions or are all-wheel drive. This means that all four wheels can—and often do—require alignment.
A four-wheel alignment adjusts the angles of all wheels to match factory specs. This ensures your car tracks straight, your steering wheel is centered, and your tires wear evenly.
So if your shop recommends a four-wheel alignment, they’re not upselling you—they’re doing you (and your tires) a favor.
Myth #5: I’ll Know I Need an Alignment Because My Car Will Pull to One Side
Sometimes, yes. But not always.
Pulling to one side is definitely a red flag, but misalignment can be subtle. Maybe your steering wheel isn’t centered when you’re driving straight. Or maybe your tires are quietly wearing unevenly on the inside or outside edges—something you might not notice until it’s too late.
Routine alignments and regular tire inspections help you catch these small misalignments before they become big expenses. Think of it as cheap insurance for your tires and suspension.
Myth #6: High-Quality Tires Don’t Need Alignment
High-quality tires are a smart investment, but they can’t protect themselves from misalignment.
Whether you’re driving on budget rubber or top-of-the-line custom tires, poor alignment will chew them up faster than you think. And misalignment doesn’t care how fancy your tires are—it’ll wear them unevenly, reduce traction, and shorten their lifespan.
To get the best performance out of your tires, pair them with a professional alignment every time you replace them.
Myth #7: Online Tire Shopping Is Risky
In the past, many drivers avoided buying tires online because they worried about getting the wrong size, dealing with complicated installation, or missing out on warranty coverage.
Today, that’s no longer the case. Reputable shops let you shop online for tires from top brands, see exactly what fits your car, and book your installation at a local certified shop—all in one place.
You get the best of both worlds: online convenience, plus expert installation and service that protects your investment. And you can often score exclusive online deals that help you save even more when buying four new tires.
Why the Right Tires and Proper Alignment Matter
Your tires are the only thing connecting your car to the road. Every mile you drive depends on them. Worn tires with poor alignment don’t just wear out faster—they compromise your traction, braking, fuel economy, and even your suspension.
When your wheels are correctly aligned, your tires last longer, your ride is smoother, your fuel economy improves, and your car handles the way it was engineered to.
Replacing your tires on time and pairing them with a proper alignment isn’t just good maintenance—it’s peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel.
How to Protect Your Tires and Save Money
So what’s the smart move for drivers?
- Inspect your tires regularly. Look for uneven wear, cracks, and bulges. If you’re not sure what to look for, ask a professional.
- Replace tires before they’re dangerously worn. Don’t push your luck with old rubber.
- Always replace all four tires if possible, especially with AWD vehicles. This prevents drivetrain issues and uneven wear.
- Get your wheels aligned every time you buy new tires. And check your alignment at least once a year—more often if you hit a lot of potholes or rough roads.
- Shop smart. Buy from trusted shops that offer online tire ordering with expert in-store installation. You’ll save time and get the professional service your tires—and your safety—deserve.
If you’ve been putting off replacing those worn tires or haven’t had an alignment check in a while, there’s no better time than now to take action. With our easy online shopping, you can explore a huge selection of top-tier and custom tires, order exactly what your car needs, and have them installed by certified technicians who care about your safety.
Better yet? For a limited time, when you purchase four tires, you can take advantage of exclusive offers that help you save more while protecting your ride.
Don’t leave your safety—and your wallet—to chance. Browse, choose, and book your expert installation today. Your car (and your future self) will thank you for it.
