Are Summer Tires Cheaper Than All-Season Tires?

The first time someone realizes they need new tires is either when they have a near miss because they lost traction on the road, or when a mechanic tells them they need to be replaced.

Because tires can be quite expensive, Cheap Tires ASAP aims to cut out the middleman with cheap tires available online with free shipping. But what about tires for different seasons? Are winter tires cheaper than all-season tires, or are summer ones cheaper? 

One type of seasonal tire is not necessarily more expensive or cheaper than another type of seasonal or all-season tire. Summer tires will most likely be cheaper than winter tires but more expensive than all-season. However, it’s important to know that all high-performance tires, regardless of which season they are meant for, will come with additional costs. 

The finest Pirelli all-season tires are going to be more expensive than a lesser-known brand’s most expensive winter tires. It’s all about what is right for your vehicle, your budget, and your driving habits. 

What Type of Tire Do I Need for My Car?

The first thing one should look at is your owner’s manual, which will tell you what type and size of tire you should be using on your car. That being said, your owner’s manual doesn’t know where you live and the conditions you normally drive in. While a manual may recommend all-season tires, if you live in an environment where there are extreme seasonal changes in weather, it may be worthwhile investing in multiple sets of tires. 

Summer tires are designed for dry environments and ensure maximum grip in dry conditions. For those in places such as southern Texas, Arizona, or New Mexico, where it rarely rains, a summer tire may be the perfect choice for year-round use. 

On the other hand, for those who live in places such as the Rocky Mountains or other cold regions prone to snow and ice, it makes sense to have a quality set of winter tires on your car—five or six months of the year, they might be critical to your safety. After the winter, it might be best to switch out those tires for an all-season tire for the spring and summer seasons.

For those making everyday drives around the suburbs in areas where extreme weather is rare, all-season cheap tires are safe enough for regular use. 

Final Thoughts

For those who drive regularly in environments prone to inclement weather or those who drive fast in high-performance cars, it makes sense to purchase specialized tires. Having specialized tires means having the right tools for certain kinds of drives, and the benefits far outweigh the costs.

If stored and maintained properly, having two sets of tires only adds to a car owner’s upfront costs, as you’ll still only replace a tire when it wears out; on the other hand, if you have moderate, dry weather year-round, summer tires will work just fine. The question is figuring out which is right for you and the area you live in.