I have to get a new one tomorrow. Never been to buy tires before

[btan219]

These are my current tires: https://imgur.com/a/p3Jv9


Riken Raptor 215/45ZR17 91W


I'm thinking about going to a Walmart. Would I just drive up to their auto section in the back and say I'm looking to buy a new tire? Looking to get just one for now since budget is tight.
I don't see that they have the exact tire I have on their website. What would you guys recommend? Or what should I tell them? Just the least expensive tire that's the same specifications as my old tire?
Sorry if this seems really beginner, but it'll be a learning experience for me haha.

[Summerwolf]

I would probably suggest going to an actual tire dealer (look one up in your area with good reviews / ratings) that may be a walmart in your area, but probably not.

You pull up, talk to the service guy, say you're looking for tires (specifically do NOT mention this is your first time) and they generally go and get your tire info off the car because customers are often stupid about make model year and tire size. They tell you what they have and what they can order and you go from there.

Also you might want to check out tread depth etc on your current tires before just buying one. You may actually NEED to replace others, you didn't explain the situation. If you buy one make sure it's the same tire... if you can't find the same tire buy a pair.

I'm not sure why people cheap out on tires, it is literally the only thing attaching your car to the road, but if you have NTB stores in your area the Sumitomo htr z iii is a great tire at a great price. Just food for thought.

[btan219]

Would it be really bad to just have 1 different tire for now? Assuming all my other tires tread are still good

I plan on getting all new tires sometime this year, I just need to save up first.

Also, which specific specification of tires should I look for in the new tires? Should I just pick a tire that's exactly 215/45ZR17 91W and something I can afford? Any recommended brands?

edit: just checked my other three tires with a penny and they are still good

edit: did more research and everyone is recommending to get tires in a pair. my current tire isn't currently available in any of the shops around. the tire that popped was the rear passenger. when getting a new pair of tires, would they both go on the passenger side or both on the rear?

[guybo]

Do not have mismatched tires on one axle. If you need to replace 1, replace 2. 4 Is better. You'll have ABS/TC/SC problems at best, you'll damage something at worst. That can do serious expensive damage.

If you go to WalMart, the problem is thier service. The techs suck at Wally world and I have seen all kinds of shady stuff and/or damage after people go there. Double check everything, check the torque (they will probably over torque and then you won't know if there is damage until you take the wheels off again then you will be stuck with the bill). Over torque causes long term damage so most shop do it because it's a time saver and cannot be traced back to them.

Pay more, go to a good shop and get better service.

Before they put the tires on the car, look at the actual tires going on your car and read the DOT number and the date code. Make sure you are getting tires at most 1 year old. tires need to be replaced when worn or after 6 years which ever comes first. If you get 3 year old tires, they are already halfway through their serviceable life.

Look at tire reviews. Don't go for what's on sale- look into them deeper than that. There's only 4 patches of rubber that touch the road, they are the most important safety item on your car. Don't skimp on shit tires.

[jmark]

I agree deal with a tire store like Discount Tire. You can go online and type in your tire size and see what they have in stock for the car.

[jasonojordan]

Stores like Discount also offer a credit line for people that qualify. Alot of times you can get 6mo-1yr interest free financing if cash is just tight at this time but you have room in your budget for $50-$100 a mo.

Also alot of times they have $50 or so off a set of 4 tires when you use that credit line ontop of any other rebates that the tire company might be running.

[Summerwolf]

I think running one new tire only is not a great situation. If its different compound, tread depth, etc etc it can truly affect handling and sensor operation. If its short term, maybe you can get by but its always suggested to replace tires in at least pairs.