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What to ask before you buy tyres

Last updated 5 February 2027
A customer asking a tyre fitter questions before buying

Key takeaways

Before buying tyres, ask: is this the correct size and rating for my car, what are the EU label grades (especially wet grip), is the price the all-in fitted total, and does it include balancing, a valve and disposal. For value, ask about cost per mile, not just the sticker, and avoid part-worns.

A few simple questions before you buy tyres save money and avoid mistakes. The essentials are whether the tyre is the right size and rating for your car, how it grades for safety, whether the price is the all-in fitted total, and how it stacks up on value. Ask these and you'll buy with confidence rather than guesswork.

Is it the right size and rating?

The first question is always fitment. Is this the correct size for my car, and does it meet or exceed the load and speed ratings my car needs? Fitting the wrong size or an under-rated tyre is unsafe and can fail the MOT, so confirm it against your registration or door placard before anything else.

What are the label grades?

Ask for the EU label grades, especially wet grip, which is the most safety-critical, plus fuel efficiency and noise. Then ask how the tyre performs in independent tests for your size, since the label doesn't capture everything. For UK driving, prioritise wet grip above all.

Is this the full fitted price?

Always ask whether the quote is the all-in fitted price, including mounting, balancing, a new valve and disposal of the old tyre. A "tyre only" figure can look cheaper but add up at the till, see what tyres really cost. With mobile fitting, also confirm there's no separate call-out fee, just the agreed price.

How does it compare on value?

For value, ask about cost per mile rather than the sticker: a longer-lasting tyre can be cheaper over its life, see budget vs premium. And steer clear of part-worns as a "bargain", since their short life and unknown history rarely justify the saving. A good question is simply: "what would you fit to your own car for my driving?"

We answer honestly

We'll talk you through all of this for your specific car, with no upselling, and fit the right tyre at your home or work across the UK. Book a fit or send your registration for advice.

Rescue Tyres

Written by the Rescue Tyres team

We’re mobile tyre fitters working across the UK, repairing and replacing tyres at the roadside, at homes and at workplaces every day. Rated 5.0 stars from 151 Google reviews. This guide reflects what we see on real callouts and current UK tyre law. Need a hand? Book a mobile fitter.

Frequently asked questions

What should I ask before buying tyres?
Whether it's the right size and rating for your car, the EU label grades (especially wet grip), whether the price is the full fitted total including balancing and disposal, and how it compares on cost per mile.
How do I know a tyre is the right size?
Check the size on your sidewall or door placard and make sure the tyre meets or exceeds your car's load and speed ratings. Your registration confirms the correct fitment.
What does a fitted tyre price include?
It should include mounting, balancing, a new valve and disposal of the old tyre. Always ask whether a quote is the all-in fitted price or just the tyre, as the difference adds up.
How do I judge tyre value?
Ask about cost per mile, not just the sticker price, because a longer-lasting tyre can be cheaper over its life. Avoid part-worns, whose short life and unknown history rarely justify the saving.
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