KEY POINTS
- Save over $100 on a set of four tires during Costco sales.
- 5-year roadside hazard warranty and lifetime maintenance with installation.
- Free nitrogen tire inflation, usually costing $3-$10 elsewhere.
Costco members can purchase tires from the Costco Tire Center, offering speed and significant financial benefits. Here are the top three reasons to buy tires at Costco:
Here are the top 3 reasons to buy tires at Costco:
1. Generally More Competitive Pricing
“Usually” is the key term here because Costco doesn’t always offer the cheapest tires, especially during promotions from competitors like Walmart and Tire Rack. However, when discounts are applied, Costco prices can significantly undercut the average market rate for certain sets.
For example, compare the prices of a set of four Bridgestone Potenza RE980S+, suitable for a 2023 Toyota Camry (installation fee included):
| Tire Shop | 4 Bridgestone Potenza Tires + Installation (disposal fee and taxes not included) |
| Costco | $755.92 ($168.99/tire + $79.96 for installation) |
| Tire Rack | $775.96 ($168.99/tire + estimated $100 for installation) |
| Walmart | $848.84 ($195.21/tire + $17/tire for installation) |
Costco and Tire Rack prices are similar when discounts are not included, but Walmart is significantly pricier. This may reflect an outdated inventory, as Walmart currently has a shortage of these tires.
Savings can be significant when Costco offers discounts. For example, between April 12 and May 16, a partnership with Michelin resulted in $150 off any set of four Michelin tires. With this discount, Costco’s pricing was particularly advantageous:
| Tire Shop | (4) Michelin Pilot Sport All Season Tires + Installation (disposal fee and taxes not included) |
| Costco | $673.92 ($185.99/tire + $79.96 for installation) |
| Tire Rack | $943.96 ($185.99/tire + estimated $200 for installation) |
| Walmart | $811.96 ($185.99/tire + $17/tire for installation) |
Even without the $150 discount, Costco’s pricing remains competitive. With the discount, the savings are substantial — approximately $138 less than Walmart and $270 less than Tire Rack.
2. Complimentary Roadside Hazard Guarantee and Lifetime Maintenance
Costco offers a free 5-year roadside hazard warranty on most tires (except some heavy truck tires). This warranty covers the repair of cuts, punctures, or impact damage caused during normal vehicle operation. Additionally, if the tires are beyond repair, Costco offers a credit toward new tires, calculated based on the remaining tread and the original purchase price.
Choosing the Installation Package ($19.99 per tire) entitles you to lifetime maintenance services, including tire rotations, air pressure checks, rubber valve stem replacements, and balancing.
By comparison, Walmart’s installation package (about $17 per tire) includes similar services but charges about $10 per tire for a road hazard warranty, totaling $108, which is $28 more than Costco’s.
3. Nitrogen Inflation
Costco inflates tires with nitrogen, not air, which can reduce the rate of pressure loss and potentially increase fuel efficiency. Other tire shops typically charge between $3 and $10 for nitrogen inflation, making Costco a more advantageous choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important benefits of buying tires at Costco?
Costco offers competitive pricing, often providing significant savings during sales events. They also include benefits such as free nitrogen tire inflation, a complimentary roadside hazard warranty on most tires (excluding some heavy truck tires), and lifetime maintenance services with their installation package.
Do you have to buy all 4 tires at Costco?
Yes, Costco typically requires customers to purchase all four tires as a set.
Does Costco balance tires?
Yes, Costco provides tire balancing as part of their installation services.
Does Costco offer a tire warranty?
Yes, Costco offers a 5-year roadside hazard warranty on most tires (except some heavy truck tires). This warranty covers repairs for punctures and damage caused during normal driving conditions. Also, Costco provides credit for new tires if the damaged tire cannot be repaired.
Should you purchase tires at Costco?
If you are a Costco member, comparing prices with other retailers such as Walmart, Tire Rack, BJ’s, and Sam’s Club is advisable. However, when Costco offers a discount—such as the $150 example mentioned—the savings can be large enough to justify the membership fee, sometimes even covering the cost of an Executive Membership.
Top Credit Card for Costco Purchases
Consider a flexible credit card that offers plenty of rewards, including at Costco. A standout option offers a simple $200 welcome offer and unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases, including at Costco. Combined with a competitive 0% interest period, this card was awarded the best credit card with no annual fee, making it a great choice for Costco buyers.
Conclusion: Top 3 Reasons to Buy Tires at Costco
In summary, Costco provides competitive pricing and valuable benefits such as a comprehensive warranty and free lifetime maintenance. If you are a Costco member, it’s worth comparing prices, but the added benefits and potential savings make Costco an excellent choice for buying tires. Additionally, utilizing a top rewards credit card can further enhance your savings and benefits when buying at Costco.
