How much does new tires cost?

A full set of four tires usually runs $400 to $1,000 installed for most cars and crossovers, which works out to roughly $100 to $250 per tire. Large trucks, SUVs, and performance or all-terrain tires cost more. Prices include mounting and balancing at most shops, plus a small disposal fee.

Not always. If two tires are still in good shape with similar tread depth, you can replace just the worn pair, though all-wheel-drive vehicles are usually recommended to replace all four to avoid drivetrain strain. When tread depths differ significantly, matching all four gives the best handling. A technician can measure and advise.

Mounting and balancing a set of four tires typically takes 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Adding a wheel alignment extends that by about another hour. Many shops let you schedule an appointment to reduce wait time.

Replace tires when the tread reaches 2/32 of an inch, which the built-in wear bars indicate, or when you see cracking, bulges, or repeated flats. Tires also age out after about six to ten years regardless of tread. A quick tread-depth or penny test tells you if it is time.

Yes, an alignment is recommended with new tires so they wear evenly and last their full life. Installing new tires on a misaligned vehicle can cause premature, uneven wear that wastes your investment. Many shops offer a tire-and-alignment package that bundles the cost.