At some point, your automobile is going to need one or more of its tires replaced – so, if you’re trying to watch your budget, you might want to look into getting used wheels, instead of new ones. Many times, you can find some great deals at your local “family” tire shops, or at wrecking yards where you “pick and pull” the car parts you need, yourself.

But what should you look for in a used tire, so you can be sure that your “bargain” price includes quality – as far as safety and the performance of your car is concerned? Keep reading for a brief summary.

The first thing to remember is that your wheels should all be the same size. If you are purchasing tires for the rear of the car, as long as it is the same size and is in good shape, you should be fine. However, in getting them for the front of the vehicle, they should also have the same tread – and, if at all possible, be the same brand as well. This is because having mismatched tires on the front of your car can alter the way it handles on the road, damage your axles – and in some cases, even cause the vehicle to flip over while you’re driving on the road.

In inspecting used tires, keep some important things in mind as to the condition of the tread it has left. Examine each one carefully – before you buy it – and look for dead giveaways, like multiple dry cracks in the rubber, AND if there is any rubber MISSING from around the belts. Also, make sure that no part of the steel belt is showing through. These are clues that the tire is worn out, and not safe, and is one you want to stay away from. And, if you find a wheel that has already been “patched” multiple times, this is one whose shelf-life is over.

If you’re on your own as far as having to check the tread yourself, there is an easy, and fun, way to do it. Just take a common Lincoln-head penny, and insert it into the tread, all over the tire, in different locations. Make sure the penny has the head of Lincoln facing down. If you can’t see his face or head because it’s covered by tread, then the odds are that this is a good tire. But if any part of his face or head is showing, back away from it – and look elsewhere.

If you are a girl, then you probably aren’t an expert in the field of automotive. In this case, it’s a good idea to have your spouse, or boyfriend, accompany you when you’re shopping for used tires. It’s not so crucial at one of the “family run” tire shops, as they have people on staff that know about tires, and will help you with what you need.

But, if the place you go happens to be the junkyard – it’s a whole different ballgame. You alone, are responsible for finding your own tires, disengaging them from the often-rusty vehicle once you find them, hauling them to the check out, and then installing them on your car, yourself. So, it should be clear that if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could be asking for trouble.

So, in your quest to find quality used wheels for your automobile, you see there are a few factors to be considered before you just go out and buy any old tire. You don’t have to be an expert in the field of automotive to be able to choose the correct alloy wheels, you just have to educate yourself a bit, beforehand, so you don’t waste time or money on wheels that are just as bad, or worse, than the ones you’re replacing.