For decades, there has been a common debate in many households: Are Costco tires the same quality as other shops?
Tires from Costco are of the same quality as the same tires purchased elsewhere. For example, a high quality tire from a brand like Michelin sold at Costco, will be the exact same tire sold at Walmart and Tire Rack.
The reason people may be under the impression that Costco tires are of less quality compared to tires sold elsewere, is likely because of the pricing. Since tires are a cheaper at stores such as Costco and Walmart compared to other stores, it’s easy to assume they aren’t as good.
But, the reason they are cheaper at Costco is becuase large retailers receive big price breaks from the manufacturers by being able to purchase huge quantities at the same time. These savings are then forwarded to the consumer, which may influence you to go and make a purchase from that store.
Why Buy Tires at Costco?
It’s a wise idea to bring your car in for tires at a Costco Tire Center. From the Consumer Report survey, Costco is ranked “Good” on choice and waiting area though they have an excellent rating in terms of installation time.
The best advantage of buying tires at Costco is that you can enjoy nice, new BFGoodrich or Michelin tires for the lowest price possible (since they can offer lower prices compared to most other stores). There are no extra charges associated with your purchase. Therefore it is a nice deal.
Purchasing new tires can be a significant investment, so don’t get stuck using low-quality ones. Save a few bucks at Costco when purchasing higher quality tires. Other benefits of buying tires at Costco include:
Lifetime replacement warranty: In case your tire goes flat, Costco will repair it for free or offer you credit for the amount of tread that remains. If the tire goes flat and it’s close to full tread, they will have it replaced free of charge. However, they do not fix intentional problems.
Lifetime balancing & rotation: If you think of spending around $15 on tire balancing and rotation, then you can stop being a cheapskate and have your tires rotate regularly. The only challenge is the time you spend waiting for the service to be done, but it would be better if you arrive early in the morning during a weekday.
Inflation with nitrogen: Costco uses nitrogen to maintain pressure instead of air which changes with temperatures. It should also be inflated well. Costco inflates your tires to recommend pressures when they balance and rotate. NOTICE: That is the reason your tires come with green inflation tube caps so you cannot inflate them with normal air at the gas station.
How Much Does Costco Charge to Change Tires?
If you are a member, you will enjoy some services at a reduced cost. For example, you pay $20 for tire installation, including a tire rotation, balancing, and lifetime flat tire repairs.
This means that Costco will change or repair your tires when they are damaged. Infact, you are only required to produce your original receipt and maintain maintenance requirements such as tire balancing, rotation, etc., for the warranty to be valid.
Is Tire Rotation Free at Costco?
Tire rotation is free at Costco. On top of that Costco provides lifetime maintenance services plus the installation of new tires. Also, you will get free flat repairs, among other perks that help your vehicle run smoother than before! Other benefits of replacing tires at Costco include nitrogen-filled tires and no pesky additional shipping fees or taxes.
Costco’s tire selection is not extensive like other national tire shops, but they offer well-known brands like Continental and Firestone. The tires come with other offers, such as free tire rotation and road hazard service.
Can I Buy Tires at Costco Without a Membership?
If you buy tires from Costco without a membership, they won’t service your car. You will only get authorized brand-name spares for a given model and make of vehicle.
Costco does not service your car if you are not an active member. Anyway, there is no such thing as bad juju to save money!
How Much Does a Costco Membership Cost?
The price of a Costco membership starts at $60 per year for the “Gold Star” membership. The more expensive “Executive” membership cost $120 per year. You can select between a personal or business membership and they cost the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Tires Have an Expiration Date?
Tires do not have exact expiration dates but instead have manufactured dates listed on the sidewall, together with the tire size and maximum load capacity it can support. Most automakers and tire makers recommend replacing tires five years after their manufacturing dates to avoid malfunction.
This is because as tires age, the compounds in the rubber may break down, leading to blowouts or even cracking when the car is moving.
What is The Recommended Tire Pressure For my Car?
Every vehicle is different, but finding out the recommended tire pressure for your car is not a big deal. There is a white and yellow label on the driver’s side door jam.
You will find your tire pressure here. However, if your label is tampered with, you can still get the information online by searching your car’s make and model.
My Tire Light Is Always On. What Does That Mean?
Most current vehicles are fitted with tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) that alert the driver in case of under-or over-inflated tires through a light in the gauge cluster.
If the light is on and your tire pressures are as recommended, there is a problem with the sensors. Therefore, have a pro check out.
What Is The Meaning Of The Tire Mileage Numbers?
When purchasing tires, you will see different types of mileage numbers. This is not a guarantee because vehicles have different conditions.
Therefore, if the tire is rated at 60,000 miles, it can last for that long if proper care is taken. If your tire malfunctions before it wears to a given point, you can get a replacement or repair as the manufacturer’s warranty covers it.
However, the warranty does not cover damage from abuse or abnormal wear due to improper car maintenance.
Bottom line
Costco offers the best services any car owner would wish to get. Never worry again as you will get the best from this shop.
Also, the mouthwatering after sales services offered and warranty makes it the best. Therefore, I will recommend you give it a trial and experience by yourself.
Hi, my name is Niklas, the head content creator & CEO of Whirling Wheelz. I am very interested in vehicles of all kinds, mainly cars. I have a car mechanics degree from high school and a big hobby of mine is to follow the WRC (World Rally Championship) both online and through travel.
