Used tires are one of the best bargains around. Some sets of new tires can cost as much as $1500.00, while the same tires can be purchased used for as little as $300.00, often delivering at least 70 percent usage.

Used tires are not "junk." They do not have inherent problems just because they have been on another car, nor are they "somebody else's problem." Most are trade ins, or tires that people have no further use for. Some are takeoffs from trade in vehicles, and others are tires that people just don't like. I've seen people remove brand new tires in favor of a different style, brand, or performance level.

At New England Tire Salvage, every tire is pressure tested for leaks and bubbles. Be sure your seller does this and avoid problems! Make sure you read the item description and the guarantee, and abide by the rules. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask them. Reputable sellers will always answer. Always buy from an established Ebay seller, preferably a Powerseller like me, and be sure the seller has good feedback. Below is information about how to select a tire.

Tires are no longer an item you can buy with no knowledge of the product. Modern cars and SUV's have specific requirements where tire sizes, speed ratings, and load ratings are concerned. These parameters are programmed into the vehicle's computer and are used for determining shift points, speedometer readings, etc. Deviating from these specifications can cause problems with the vehicle's computer and can also cause transmission damage. NEVER use a tire that is not recommended or approved by the manufacturer.

Original equipment specifications can be found in the owner's manual or on the door post tag. Do NOT rely upon the tire currently on your car...........it may be the wrong one! Always consult your manual or an expert source for advice.

Speed and load ratings are the basis of tire construction specifications. You will see a number/letter combination like "89V' on the sidewall. The number 89 is the load rating, and specifies how much weight the tire will support. You may go higher, but never lower. Insufficient carrying capacity can cause overheating and tire failure. Speed ratings are indicated by the letter, in this case V. Each letter represents a different sustained speed at which the tire will safely perform. Rule of thumb is: the farther down the alphabet you go, the higher the speed. Extreme high performance tires will be rated V, W, Y, or Z.  NEVER go lower than what is recommended. To do so invites lawsuits in the event of an accident.

The size will look like this: P205-55-R16. P  (P-metric) stands for pneumatic or passenger, the other numbers represent width, profile, and rim diameter. Rim diameter cannot be changed! You cannot install 17" tires on 16" rims, etc. Tires specified for commercial use will be designated LT (Light Truck) instead of P-metric. Never use a P-metric tire when an LT tire is specified, it will not support the weight and will eventually fail. Conversely, do not substitute LT tires for P-metric tires, they will ride very hard!

Brands are interchangeable. There is no requirement that you buy a specific brand tire for your car, despite what dealers will tell you. All you must do is be sure that the tire you purchase meets the manufacturer's specifications. Good luck, and good Ebaying!