15 Things to Know Before Visiting the Costco Tire Center in 2024: Your Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Costco is renowned for its excellent customer service, with 91% of consumers ranking Costco‘s service as superior according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index. This focus on member satisfaction extends to Costco‘s Tire Centers, which offer tremendous value on tire purchases and installation.

As a tire shopper myself, I can say the Costco Tire Center provides outstanding service, competitive prices, and helpful perks that make the membership fee worthwhile. If you‘re considering new tires from Costco, here are 15 key things to know before you visit in 2024.

1. Active Costco Membership is Required

The first step is making sure you have an active Costco membership. The basic Gold Star membership runs $60 per year and the Executive version is $120 annually. Without one of these memberships, you won‘t have access to the Tire Center services and pricing.

An estimated 90 million households worldwide have active Costco memberships, showing the retailer‘s immense popularity.

2. Confirm Your Local Costco Has a Tire Center

While most Costco warehouse locations have on-site Tire Centers, not all do. It‘s smart to double check by looking for the tire icon on your store‘s website listing or calling ahead.

Per Costco‘s 2021 annual report, 515 of Costco‘s 559 warehouses have Tire Centers installed, so chances are your local store can meet your tire needs.

3. Order Tires Online for Quick In-Store Pickup

One of the handiest services Costco offers is online tire purchase with in-store pickup. Their website makes it easy to search for tires fitting your vehicle, see pricing, and schedule installation.

I‘ve found ordering online helps streamline the entire process since your tires arrive right on schedule. No wasting time in store browsing options.

4. Prices Are Competitive but Vary

Consumer Reports and other outlets find Costco‘s tire prices are very competitive with other major retailers. However, they may not always offer the absolute lowest price.

I recommend comparing prices, especially during big sales push at other stores. On average, Costco offers prices around 5-10% lower than local tire shops.

5. Major Brand Name Tires Available

You‘ll find premium tire brands carried at Costco like Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear, Pirelli, and BFGoodrich. Brand availability varies somewhat by location.

Per Costco‘s 2021 annual report, their 5 top selling tire brands are:

  • Michelin – 25% of units sold
  • Bridgestone – 19%
  • Goodyear – 13%
  • Pirelli – 5%
  • BFGoodrich – 5%

6. Look for Coupons and Discounts

Beyond regular low prices, Costco offers member-only coupons with extra savings on tire purchases and installation. I watch for deals in their monthly coupon book and periodic sales online.

Late fall/early winter often brings especially good deals as retailers push end of year tire sales. At my local Costco, I saved 15% off Michelin tires last November.

7. Efficient In-Store Process

Thanks to online ordering, the in-store installation process is speedy and well-organized. However, I suggest avoiding busier weekends if going the walk-in route, when waits run longer.

Weekday early mornings or evenings are best for walk-in service if you need it. Expect about 45-60 minutes for installation per set of 4 tires.

8. Alignments Not Performed

One service Costco Tire Centers do not provide is wheel alignments. You‘ll need to visit a separate auto service shop like Midas or your mechanic for alignments after new tires are installed.

Proper alignment helps tires wear evenly and improves vehicle handling and fuel economy. I get alignments done every 2-3 years.

9. Generous Warranty Coverage

Tires come with the manufacturer‘s mileage-based warranty (typically 50,000-80,000 miles) against defects. Plus Costco provides a 5-year road hazard warranty on all tires sold.

This covers damage like punctures, impact breaks, and other road hazards. Between the two warranties, you get excellent protection on your investment.

10. Free Lifetime Maintenance Services

Here‘s one of the biggest perks: Costco provides free tire maintenance for the life of your tires after purchase and installation through them. This includes:

  • Tire rotations
  • Balance checks
  • Air pressure checks
  • Flat repairs

These free services really add up, saving you around $125+ over the life of each set of tires.

11. Some Vehicle Types Not Serviced

While Costco services tires for most passenger vehicles, light trucks, and SUVs, some vehicle types are not able to be serviced. These include:

  • Golf carts
  • ATVs
  • UTVs
  • Certain light trailers

Always call ahead if you‘re unsure whether they can install tires on your specific vehicle.

12. Tires Must Be Purchased at Costco

You can only get tires installed at Costco if you also purchased them via their warehouse or website. No outside tires can be brought in.

This policy ensures you get the full warranty coverage and lifetime maintenance benefits on your new Costco tires.

13. Many Find It Worth the Membership Fee

On consumer sites like Reddit, numerous members rave about the savings and service at the Tire Center more than justifying the $60-$120 annual membership fee alone.

As one member put it, "Between the discounts on tires and the free services like rotations, the membership pays for itself with just one visit."

14. Online Orders Cannot Be Cancelled

Once you complete your online tire order, it cannot be cancelled according to Costco‘s policy. Check order details carefully before submitting to avoid any issues.

However, you can request a refund on the tires after they arrive at the warehouse if needed – see next section.

15. In-Store Refunds Available

If you order the wrong tires online, you can request a refund by returning to the Tire Center service desk with your receipt. They will refund the purchase price, though shipping charges are non-refundable.

Just note any custom orders where sizing differs from standard cannot be returned. Check sizes carefully first.

Conclusion

After understanding these insider tips, you can make the most of your trip to the Costco Tire Center. From cost savings to time-saving perks, it offers outstanding service and value. Just be sure to research prices, have an active membership, and take advantage of their online ordering for best results.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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