Winter Has Arrived

I had been putting this off for a few weeks/months now, optimistic that Fall might stretch on a little bit longer – but this past week’s winter weather brought with it a reality check, it’s time to replace the tires on my vehicle.

I’ve just started to research pricing at local tire shops and trying to narrow down which tire choices will be the best value – both in related to cost and performance in wet/winter weather. I’ve also been checking some of the retail stores, Costco in particular.

Unfortunately, in my situation I know I will have another added cost associated with the tire replacement, an alignment. My current (worn) tires have some toe wear – or wear that is on the inner edge of the tire, more excessive than the rest of the tire. An alignment should fix this but will come with the added cost. What is slightly complicating my cost comparisons is that some of the places I have found the best tire prices at don’t offer alignment services (i.e., Costco). So, I have been looking at prices for tires and alignment at the same place – which typically offer a slight discount on the alignment with purchase of the tires, compared to purchasing the tires at one place and an alignment at a second place.

One other factor is coming into play, and I am hoping it works toward my advantage, are manufacturer’s rebates and Black Friday. Right now, there are several manufacturers that have their rebates posted through the end of the year, and an a few of the shops offering additional discounts related to Black Friday.

My goal over the next couple days is to finish my research and cost comparisons so that I will be able to take advantage of any of the sales/deals – and slightly lessen the impact to the checkbook.