Car press

Shopping for tyres at traditional high street outlets is a chore at the best of times, and can be quite daunting for the initiated. As with many other products, you can avoid some of the hassle by buying tyres online.

It's still worth going through a structured comparison of prices, (see below) but it makes sense to include online retailers in your search. Buying online can save you time, money and hassle. Some companies offer a full fitting service at your home or work, while others direct you to a retailer where your tyres can be fitted. Others deliver your tyres to a retailer of your choice.

In January 2006, we asked 59 readers who'd bought tyres online for their opinion of the service they received. More than eight in ten said they'd happily do it again. Sites they've used include:

(...)
www.pneus-online.co.uk

Before buying:

Check your tyres' details in your owner's handbook, and look at our results, to decide which tyres suit your needs best.

Write down the exact make and model names of your first and second choice tyres.

Look up details of retailers and list them on a piece of paper.

Contact the dealers on your list, asking specifically for your size and specification of tyre in the makes of your choice.

Make sure you ask for quotes to include new valves, fitting and balancing, and any tracking necessary.

Compare your quotes and decide on the best one for you. You can often play one retailer off against another to get an even better deal.

Excerpt: Which? Online - March 2006