· Maria Lang · Travel · 3 min read
How to Save Money on Car Tyres in the UK
Car tyres are an essential part of vehicle maintenance, but they can be a significant expense. However, with smart shopping and maintenance strategies, you can reduce costs without compromising on safety or quality. Here are the best ways to save money on car tyres in the UK.
1. Compare Prices Online Before Buying
Tyre prices vary significantly between retailers, so comparing prices is essential.
Best Websites for Price Comparison:
- Blackcircles – Often has discounts and fitting included.
- Tyre Shopper – Price match guarantee available.
- MyTyres – Competitive pricing and a wide selection.
- Kwik Fit, Halfords, and ATS Euromaster – Occasionally offer promotions.
Money-Saving Tip:
- Use price comparison sites like Confused.com Tyres to find the best deals.
- Look for online-exclusive discounts and voucher codes before purchasing.
2. Buy Tyres in Pairs or Sets
Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase multiple tyres.
Savings Breakdown:
- Buying four tyres at once can sometimes result in free fitting or extra discounts.
- Some retailers offer buy 3, get 1 free promotions.
- Tyre sets ensure even wear, extending lifespan and saving money long-term.
3. Consider Part-Worn or Budget Tyres
While premium brands are ideal, budget tyres and part-worn tyres can offer significant savings if chosen wisely.
Where to Buy Part-Worn Tyres Safely:
- Local tyre shops – Ensure they meet UK safety regulations.
- Online marketplaces (Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace) – Only buy from reputable sellers.
Important Considerations:
- Check tread depth – UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm, but ideally, aim for 3mm+.
- Ensure there are no bulges, cuts, or sidewall damage.
- Ask if they’ve been pressure tested for safety.
4. Check for Manufacturer and Retailer Offers
Many tyre brands and retailers run promotions throughout the year.
Where to Find Discounts:
- Michelin, Goodyear, Bridgestone, and Continental often offer cashback deals.
- Retailers like Halfords and Kwik Fit provide seasonal discounts.
- Some brands give fuel vouchers or cashback when purchasing a set of tyres.
5. Use Cashback and Discount Websites
Save extra money by earning cashback or using promo codes.
Best Cashback & Voucher Sites:
- TopCashback & Quidco – Earn cashback on tyre purchases.
- VoucherCodes & HotUKDeals – Find tyre discounts and promo codes.
- Supermarket Fuel Promotions – Some supermarkets offer fuel discounts when buying tyres.
6. Extend the Life of Your Tyres
Taking care of your tyres reduces the frequency of replacements, saving money over time.
Maintenance Tips:
- Check tyre pressure monthly – Underinflated tyres wear out faster and increase fuel consumption.
- Rotate tyres every 5,000-7,000 miles – Ensures even tread wear.
- Get regular wheel alignments – Misalignment causes uneven wear and shortens tyre lifespan.
- Avoid aggressive driving – Hard braking and fast cornering increase wear.
7. Look for Free Fitting and Mobile Tyre Services
Many tyre retailers offer free fitting when buying online.
Where to Get Free Fitting:
- Blackcircles, National Tyres, and ATS Euromaster offer free fitting with some purchases.
- Mobile tyre services – Some companies fit tyres at your home or workplace for no extra cost.
- Local garages – Some independent garages offer free or cheap fitting services.
8. Buy Tyres at the Right Time
Timing your purchase can save you money.
Best Times to Buy:
- Black Friday & January Sales – Retailers offer significant discounts.
- End of the financial year (March & September) – Businesses clear stock with discounts.
- Winter & Summer Changeovers – Look for deals on seasonal tyres when demand is lower.
9. Consider All-Season Tyres
If you live in an area with mild winters, all-season tyres can save money by eliminating the need for separate winter and summer tyres.
Benefits of All-Season Tyres:
- No need for two sets of tyres.
- Saves money on tyre storage and changeover costs.
- Last longer than regular summer tyres in varied weather conditions.
Conclusion
Car tyres can be expensive, but by shopping smartly, maintaining them properly, and looking for discounts, you can cut costs significantly. Whether you’re buying online, considering part-worn tyres, or using cashback sites, there are plenty of ways to save money while ensuring your vehicle stays safe on the road.