Tag Archives: parts and accessories

Mazda CX-30, Porsche Macan, and Chevy Camaro driving through a canyon
Deals

The 13 best Cyber Monday car specials you don’t want to miss

Throughout the week, Acceleramota tracks down the most exciting deals on the best car stuff – everything from USB chargers to the vehicles themselves. Make sure your car is decked out with everything you need for your long weekend road trips. Save some money this Cyber Monday with some good car lease deals and put those savings toward gas and oversized Slim Jims from the rest stops.

Honda deals and finance offers

2024 Honda Civic | $259 per month for 36 months ($3,399 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

Image credit: Honda

This everyday driving vehicle is a popular compact car for a good reason. Responsive steering, braking, and a comfortable ride is why you’ll find this model at the top of many lists. With this trim, you’ll also be getting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an assortment of advanced driver-assistant features.

Jeep deals and finance offers

2023 Jeep Cherokee | $539 per month for 36 months ($3,799 due at signing)

Expires 11/30/2023

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A practical, family-friendly compact crossover powered by a V6 engine. The Trailhawk 4×4 can also take on off-road routes and unplowed snowy streets with ease.

Kia deals and finance offers

2024 Kia K5 | $289 per month for 24 months ($3,199 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

Image credit: Kia

This midsize sedan comes with a host of modern safety and reliability features and seats five comfortably. The major change over the 2023 model remains its standard heated front seats in the GT-Line trim.

2023 Kia EV6 | $379 per month for 36 months ($4,999 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

Image credit: Kia

In need of an all-wheel-drive electric SUV, the Kia EV6 has style and solid performance. A great midsize option with decent cargo along with sharp steering and handling. We’re looking Kia’s most powerful production model at 576 horsepower. Get from 0-60 in only 3.4 seconds.

Mazda deals and finance offers

2023 Mazda CX-30 | $279 per month for 36 months ( $2,999 due at signing)

Expires 12/01/2023

Mazda CX-30
Image credit: Mazda

The CX-30 comes equipped with some excellent driver-assistant safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a lane-departure warning for when someone’s in your blind spot. It even has automated emergency braking. A fine choice for a parent shopping for their kid’s first car.

Chevy deals and finance offers

2023 Chevy Bolt EV | $299 per month for 36 months ($5,869 due at signing)

2023 Chevy Bolt parked in front of attached garage
Image credit: Chevrolet

While we do have our issues with other electric rides from GM (looking at you, Cadillac Lyriq), the Chevy Bolt hatchback was, for the longest time, the EV defender’s greatest weapon against their adversaries. Not only is it affordable, but it squeezes a lot of power into a compact package. Making considerably more horsepower and torque than the Chevy Sonic it replaced, it can zip from 0-60 in just 6.5 seconds while carrying five passengers up to 259 miles at a time.

2023 Chevy Camaro LT1 | $279 per month for 24 months ($5,189 due at signing)

2023 Camaro (silver) and 2023 Camaro (red) facing opposite directions
Image credit: Chevrolet

Few things scream American than a V8 engine, but alas, 2023 marked the beginning of the end for high-displacement, eight-cylinder combustion motors. Soon after Dodge announced it was axing its Charger and Challenger twins, Chevy revealed it’s sunsetting the Camaro with the 2024 model year. So, why not make the most of it by leasing one of the last great muscle cars before the move to electric? The LT1 trim, as the name suggests, shares its 6.2-liter LT1 V8 small block engine with the Corvette C7, making 455 horses and 455 lb-ft of torque. Ain’t nothing wrong with that!

Volkswagen lease deals and finance offers

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan | $429 per month for 36 months ($0 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

Image credit: Volkswagen

This spacious cabin SUV can comfortably sit up to seven people. It has a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine, optional AWD, and right now you can lease the S model with zero down.

Audi lease deals and finance offers

2024 Audi Q3 | $465 per month for 36 months ($3,859 due at signing)

2.99% for 48 months on 2023 models

Expires 11/30/2023

Image credit: Audi

This luxury subcompact SUV comes standard with AWD. Even with its host of tech features including digital gauge display, touchscreen dashboard panel, and driver assist, it’s the least expensive in the full lineup Audi has to offer.

Ford lease deals and finance offers

2023 Ford Escape | $377 per month for 48 months ($3,461 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

2023 Ford Escape side profile (red)
Image credit: Ford

While the Ford Escape might not be the most exciting car on the road, sometimes you just need an affordable, reliable daily to get you from point A to point B without spending half your salary on fuel. And that’s exactly what the Escape is: a practical, front-wheel drive family hauler with the option of all-wheel drive across trim levels. But even without any upgrades, the 2023 Escape includes all the bells and whistles we’ve come to expect from modern vehicles, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.

Porsche lease deals and finance offers

2023 Porsche Macan | $799 per month for 36 months ($7,889 due at signing)

Image credit: Porsche

Unlike VW, its more affordable sibling, it’s not cheap to own a Porsche. But certain models aren’t as pricey as you’d think to lease. Like most luxury crossover SUVs from performance car brands, the Macan has gotten a bad rap for adapting Porsche’s sporty styling to a vehicle more suited to a Trader Joe’s parking lot than at the track. But the Macan is the best-selling Porsche for a reason. Complete with standard all-wheel drive, adaptive strut suspension, and a high-tech interior, the Macan brings Porsche handling to a car you can drop your kids off at school with. And if you’re a colorhead like me, that green paint job will turn heads as much as our Alfa Romeo Tonale, maybe even more so.

Mitsubishi lease deals and finance offers

Mitsubishi Outlander | $429 per month for 36 months ($3,428 due at signing)

Mitsubishi Outlander (red) driving across a bridge
Image credit: Mitsubishi

Speaking of bad raps, here’s Mitsubishi! Sure, it’s not an Evo, but maybe you have a family now and you need something more practical than a ’90s JDM rally car to meet your needs. Well, we drove an Outlander recently at Electrify Expo, and it’s a lot more luxurious for the price than you might expect, and you can get it fully loaded for under $60K. Higher trim levels even have massaging seats! The plug-in hybrid model has some of the best electric range on the market, clocking in at 38 miles on battery alone before the gas engine kicks in. Plus, it comes in red, which we all know is the fastest color.

Best car subscription deals

Finn | $200 off first month

Promo code: FINN11XACCELERAMOTA200

Image credit: Finn

Finn is completely changing the process of what its like to shop for cars. In fact, we called it the best car subscription you’ll find in 2023. Browse its selection online of an ever-growing catalog of different makes and models, select your subscription term length, and then confirm your order. Your car will be delivered right to you if you live in the northeast. And right now, we have an exclusive discount to save $200 on the first month of your subscription. Just use the code FINN11XACCELERAMOTA200.

Car accessories, merch, and collectibles

RevMatch | 15% off ANY coffee bag

Promo Code REDLINE15

Image credit: RevMatch

Don’t go falling asleep at the wheel. RevMatch has a wide selection of small-batch, craft-roasted coffee to help you start your engines (wake up in the morning). Right now, you can use the promo code REDLINE15 to receive 15% off everything on the site.

Acceleramota Merch | 20% off

Promo code: INSTANTTORQUE20

We’ve finally launched our merch store! And, starting off, we have a selection of T-shirts, crewneck sweatshirts, and hats to choose from. Be sure to use our promo code INSTANTTORQUE20 for 20% off your order for a limited time.

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Black Friday 2023: The best car tech & accessory deals
Deals

Cyber Monday 2023: the best automotive deals this weekend

Black Friday weekend 2023 is here, which is always a fun excuse to stuff the trunk of your car, truck, or SUV with all the Amazon automotive essentials you’ve put off buying long enough.

When do the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals start?

Shoppers can find opportunities to save across TVs, smartphones, home goods, and yes, even automotive products. This season, Black Friday falls on November 24 with Cyber Monday coming up on November 27. And guess what? That’s right now, folks. Stay tuned on this page as we update this page with all of the best Amazon automotive accessory deals. We’ve gather up some current deals worth your while as well as just all-around great accessories any driver would be happy to have in their car.

Be sure to check out the other Black Friday and Cyber Monday roundups we’ve prepared to help your save money kitting out your vehicle.

In the days leading up to the event, watch this space for ongoing sales where you can still save a ton, and be sure to bookmark Deals on Wheels for the best daily car deals online, all year round.

Car care & tools

Kensun AC/DC power supply portable air compressor | 50% off

If you have a vehicle with 4WD, you might be looking forward to spending some time driving on the beach once it warms up again – maybe get a little fishing in. Of course, you’ll need to let some air out of your tires if you don’t want to get yourself stuck. When driving on sand, it’s best to lower the air pressure to between 20 to 25 PSI and then brought back up to between 32 to 35 PSI once headed back onto the road. Just keep this portable air compressor in the back of your car so you’re always ready to hit the beach.

Bilitools vacuum brake bleeder kit | 23% off

Flushing out old brake fluid or engine oil, this is the kit you need. Easy to operate as just one person, you simply attach a pump to the open bleeder screw and pull old fluid and air out of the braking system. It’ll flow into a container that’s included with the vacuum bleeder kit. And its all on sale for Black Friday.

Chemical Guys 14-piece car wash kit | 30% off

For the car enthusiast in your life that likes to keep their vehicle in tip-top shape. This bundle includes an assortment of car wash supplies including wet wax, wheel cleaner, attachments for a garden hose, and more — all from the best of the best to do it, Chemical Guys.

Chemical Guys is also running its own Black Friday promotion on its website. No code needed and you’ll get 25% off any order.

Bilitools thread repair kit | 5% off

This pack is designed for repairing damaged or stripped internal threads and creating a stronger internal thread for a wide range of automotive and plumbing applications.

Vondior tire pressure gauge | 37% off

It’s always handy to have a tire gauge in your car — especially during the colder months. Tire pressure can decrease about 1 PSI for every 10 degrees the temperature drops as the air condenses. Keep an eye on your tires through the winter with this.

Low-profile wireless tire pressure monitoring system | 31% off

This tire pressure gauge is a bit more fancy. It plugs into your cigarette lighter and pairs wirelessly with four external cap sensors that go on each of your tires. The display will then give you live feedback for both the pressure and the temperature for all of your tires.

Upholstery brush set carpet brush car | 10% off

This two-pack comes with a nylon brush and a soft horse hair brush for detailing your car. Keep your upholstery, mats, and wheels in tip-top shape.

Auto upholstery trim and molding removal tool kit | 16% off

This pack comes with 39 different pieces — each flexible and durable — to help keep your dashboard and more look brand, spankin’ new.

VanTrue N2 dash cam | $30 off

Returning to your car with a dent in your bumper because some moron tried to fit their Suburban-sized SUV in a Miata-sized parking spot is downright infuriating. But without knowing who did it, there’s not much you can do about it besides suck it up and file an insurance claim or ignore it and move on.

With a dash cam, however, you could review the footage and report the license plate so they’re held liable for the damage. There you go, a dash cam pays for itself after one incident, and the VanTrue N2 is one of the best-reviewed models you’ll find. Just make sure you account for cable management. I use these clips to keep wires out of my way when I’m cruising around in the Alfa Romeo.

Noco Genius Plus car battery jump starter | 20% off

With this, you’ll never again feel helpless on the side of the road with a dead car battery. Instead, you can give yourself a jump, thanks to the multi-voltage charger under the hood of this must-have for all drivers. We can’t count how many times we’ve had to use ours at NYCars & Coffee to help out random drivers.

Gooloo jump starters | 33-57% off

A whole slew of options for jump starters from Gooloo are part of the Black Friday sales event. You can snag one for as low as $30.

1600A battery jump starter | 30% off

Jump start your car when your in trouble or even use the battery bank to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other mobile devices.

Meguiar’s hybrid ceramic liquid wax | 49% off

No streaking or smearing—just an all-in-on ceramic coating spray to keep your car clean and polished for long-lasting protection.

ThisWorx car vacuum cleaner | 54% off

Amazon has an extensive assortment of car care products, be them this odd cleaning gel that, while it looks weird, actually does work like a charm. As does this best-selling portable vacuum. It comes with a variety of detailing attachments to keep the inside of your vehicle as pristine as the day you drove it off the lot.

Milwaukee LED work light | 15% off

Allow yourself to have ample light when working under the hood. This Milwaukee cordless flood light is compatible with all Milwaukee 18V M18 Li-ion batteries and can even has built-in USB-A and USB-C ports to charge your devices.

Vickjes windshield repair kit | $5 off

Seriously. It’s cheap and easy to do yourself. What are you waiting for? Fix your windshield.

VacLife AC/DC 2-in-1 tire inflator | 27% off

The first rule of driving on the beach is to deflate your tires. The second rule is don’t forget to fill them back up when you’re done wrestling those sandy dunes.

Roadside assistance emergency car kit | 9% off

Make sure you have everything you need when you hit the road. This pack has a first aid kit, jumper cables, tow strap, LED flashlight, rain coat, safety vest, and more. You know, A bunch of things you hope you’ll never need, but you’ll be glad to have it when you do.

Interior accessories

Phone mount | 45% off

Image credit: Amazon

Not every driver is lucky enough to have a large display screen in the center of their dashboard for GPS and music. That doesn’t matter though because you can just use your phone for all of that. Just be safe and use a car phone mount. I don’t want to see any more drivers looking down at their laps while going 80.

Anker USB-C car charger | 20% off

A lot of cars have built-in USB ports, but a lot of the time they’ll struggle to keep your phone even at the percentage its already at. This charger has two USB-C ports and uses Power Delivery to achieve super fast charging with almost any mobile device.

Super Liner floor mats for Tesla Model 3 | 43% off

Keep the floors of your vehicle clean with the help of these all-weather cargo liners — designed for use with the Tesla Model 3.

Lusso Gear car seat protector (2-pack) | 20% off

Congrats on the new baby! I just hope you’re keeping care of your backseats in the car. These seat protectors lay on top of the seat underneath your child’s car seat to keep them shielded from damage and stains. And it comes with two!

Lusso Gear dog car seat cover | 5% off

Us dog owners love to take our dog on the road, but let’s be mindful whenever we’re picking up our human friends. This seat protector will shield your back seat from scratches, scuff, mud, and, most importantly, shedding. No more hair everywhere.

Digital GPS speedometer & car compass | 25% off

When Aiden Pearce hacks your infotainment system, rendering it useless, a car compass comes in clutch. At least you’ll know you’re not driving in the wrong direction.

Tevlaphee steering wheel lock | 15% off

Give yourself that extra bit of assurance by locking your steering wheel in place when you park.

Lusso Gear car trash can with hooks | 5% off

Cars get messy. It’s only natural. Sometimes, that Starbuck cup ends up on the passenger side floor. Maybe you tossed that used napkin over your shoulder to the backseat. Stay on top of your mess with this handy hanging garbage bag. It’s waterproof and has a removable liner. You passengers will appreciate it.

Exterior accessories

Truck bed tent | 23% off

No need to set up your tent in the dumb dirt. Camp like a champ with a 6′ truck tent that builds around the bed of your pickup. It sleeps two people comfortably , has two mesh windows, and is super easy to set up. It’s also both waterproof and windproof.

Universal car rooftop cargo bag | $35 off

There’s no such thing as too much storage. This roof carrier cargo bag is a must-have for any camp outing or road trip for families. The material is both waterproof and tearproof and it’s easy to strap in. You’ll be able to hold between four and six suitcases inside.

Autel electric vehicle chargers | 34% off

If you’ve just switched to an EV to take advantage of the major tax credit, be sure to checkout our write-up on different EV chargers to find which one is right for your vehicle and home.

2 trailer wheel chocks with rope and wheel dock for boat trailer | 10% off

It’s getting to that time to take the boat out of the water for the season. Keep your trailer in place with these chock blocks this Black Friday.

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"Wash me" written by finger on a dusty car
Deals

This is your last chance to save up to 40% off Chemical Guys car wash supplies for Prime Day 2023

As convenient as it is to stop by your local car wash on your way home from work, it doesn’t take long for those weekly hand washes to start adding up. And, if you’re regularly rolling through mechanized friction brushes, you have an even bigger bill to look forward to, in the form of a new paint job. Long-term, the least costly and least harmful choice is to wash your own vehicle. But where do you turn when you lack the supplies needed to get the job done right for a reasonable price? Well, for myself, as well as most people I know, Chemical Guys is the GOAT. (That’s GOAT as in “Greatest of All Time,” not Billy.)

Believe it or not, unlike the last Prime Day held just three months ago, the Amazon Prime Day automotive deals of October don’t suck as much. While it’s not the only brand on offer, Chemical Guys has stolen the spotlight from once-household names like Armor All, proof that prominent placement on the shelf at your local Walmart is no longer a viable substitute for cultivating brand loyalty.

Few car enthusiasts will tell you they only buy Armor All. But Chemical Guys is different. Despite being around since the late 1960s, the brand didn’t catch on until the early aughts when it started showcasing its products at car shows and other types of automotive events. With more people than ever doing most of their shopping online, seeing Chemical Guys cement its place in the hearts of enthusiasts comes as no surprise. In effect, its popularity trickles down to everyone else with a hose and a bucket.

It’s not just lip service, though. Chemical Guys products deliver. Hell, I have the waterless car wash and glass cleaner sprays sitting on my desk right in front of me. I gave my dad a Chemical Guys kit a few holidays back, and in return, he gifted me a different set a couple years later. Chemical Guys makes stuff that’s high quality yet affordable, a rarity in today’s economy. Chemical Guys also makes a lot of stuff, much of which is on sale for Amazon Prime Day 2023 – at least for the next few hours.

Chemical Guys 16-piece Arsenal Builder | 40% off

Chemical Guys 16-piece cleaning kit on sale for Prime Day 2023
Image credit: Gabe Carey (Acceleramota)

THIS – and I cannot stress this enough – is one of the best Prime Day deals you’ll find in the automotive department. When Amazon calls it a Big Deal, you know it’s a big deal. Whether you just started driving or you recently got a car you care about too much to let someone else wash it, the Chemical Guys 16-piece Arsenal Builder is a bargain at $91, or 40% off.

Chemical Guys 14-piece Arsenal Builder | 40% off

Image credit: Gabe Carey (Acceleramota)

If you can do without the Speed Wipe quick detailer spray and microfiber mitt, the Chemical Guys 14-piece Arsenal Builder is nearly identical to the 16-piece kit, but for $19 less.

Other great Chemical Guys deals to consider:

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Integra Type S
Buying GuidesFeatures

Tire sealant saved my ass and it can save yours too

Behold the most star-studded write-up about what’s seemingly the most lazily hashed-together roadside solution to ever come with any new car or sit on shelves at your nearby Autozone. But! I insist it’s worth talking about. Hey, you clicked on this, didn’t you? You made that choice. Now sit here and read about me rambling all about tire sealant and tire repair kits.

Story time!

You know, those gimmicky little toy chests that come under the back seat or in the trunk of your shiny new car? Or perhaps you’ve seen them collecting dust on shelves at stores. They’re those things you read about in dealership brochures or press releases and think, “Oh geez, I really wish you just included a damn spare tire at that point.” But turns out, at least for anything short of your tire exploding or being straight-up stolen, we shouldn’t underestimate tire sealant.

While we’re on this, allow me to also state that road debris should not be scoffed at, no matter how small. If they weren’t, I wouldn’t be writing this stupid article. But no. Some missing chunk of someone’s crap-pile jalopy at a turnout in Angeles Crest Highway chose me as its lucky winner and dressed the tire of my Integra Type-S loaner as Venom Snake from Metal Gear Solid V. There was a triangular shard in the center tread block, which would have been repairable if not for its size creating a big enough slash for America’s Tire to deem it as a must-replace.

Integra Type S
Image: Jeric Jaleco

Thankfully, the Acura press fleet manager notified me that they had full replacement wheels and tires on hand and could swap out the impaled rubber so long as I could make it from my friend’s place in Palmdale to their HQ in Torrance. So I made the journey the morning after the puncture after having already racked up 50-ish miles and was about to rack 80 more. As sketchy as that was, it was a trip I couldn’t have completed if the tire sealant kit in the trunk didn’t do such a commendable job at, well, its job.

People always taught me sealant kits were gimmicks and to never bother with them. And to a degree, which we’ll discuss at the end, they’re kind of right. But man, in a pinch, these can save you from being stranded waiting for a tow atop a mountain or the annoyance of working a shitty car jack to mount some shitty spare donut. The bag-o’-goo sloshed inside the tire, made its way to the puncture, and sealed just enough to hold air pressure for the following evening and morning until I could limp it to an America’s Tire and the press fleet HQ in Torrance, totaling well over 100 miles on the still-impaled tread block. Tire sealant works. It’s not the best nor the most permanent. But it works.

It spared me a weekend of headaches and can work for you, too. Yes, this is propaganda. Here are some preemptive solutions to any future tire woes you may or may not have, followed by the facts on what’s the deal with tire sealant.

Tire sealant kits for sale

Fix-a-Flat Tire Sealant 2-Pack

What’s better than one can of Fix-a-Flat? Here’s a perfect pick for a multi-car garage or if you’re just unlucky enough to keep having this problem. This two-pack of aerosol cans can come in larger quantities or be changed to a six-pack if you’d like.

STP Tire Fix Sealant and Inflator

Presenting yet another gift from a household name in car-care goodies. STP, also known for its filters, fuel additives, and oil treatments, delivers a quick and easy way to have some peace of mind on the road. This 16-ounce aerosol touts its ability to create a proper seal for punctures up to a quarter-inch wide for up to three days.

Slime 2-In-1 Tire & Tube Premium Sealant 1-Gallon Jug

Now, here’s a fun one for owners of off-highway toys or trailers. Or maybe you’re just especially unlucky, and the tire gods hate you. Either way, this one-gallon unit is great for tending to tire impalements for non-car applications like motorcycles, ATVs, or trailers. Because yes, even the tow rig needs a hand from time to time. Keep an air compressor handy, however, as there’s no method of inflating the tires with what’s essentially a repurposed Fast Orange jug. 

FAQS

Q. Is tire sealant a permanent fix for a punctured or flat tire?

  • No. Absolutely not. So don’t even think about filling your tire with that sticky slop and calling it a day for the next 10,000 miles. If anything, tire sealant kits are the least “permanent” and most volatile method for fixing a tire. Like my situation, it’s best in a pinch, and even I pushed it much farther than the generally recommended maximum of three days or 100 miles. After use, it’s best practice to hurry to a tire shop for repair or replacement. So don’t be me and push your luck.

Q. Is tire sealant and a tire repair kit the same thing?

  • Kind of. Technically, tire sealant is a type of tire repair kit. Tire repair kits can generally be anything from a patch kit or plug to that gooey stuff in a can that auto stores and automakers love so much. But no, a tire repair kit is not exclusively a tire sealant kit, but a tire sealant kit is definitely one of many forms of tire repair kits. 

Q. What are the disadvantages of tire sealant kits?

  • A big reason for tire sealant’s lack of permanence is that the formula can dry out and harden over time, reducing its ability to maintain its seal over the puncture. It’s also easy to use improperly. Additionally, failure to properly distribute the sealant evenly around the tire could possibly result in a weight imbalance that causes slight wheel vibration. So use with care and follow those instructions, folks. 

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The 7 best places to buy tires: where to order tires and schedule installations online

This article contains affiliate links, which means Acceleramota may receive a commission on any sales from the best places to buy tires at no additional cost to you. Our content is written independently and is not influenced by these affiliate partnerships. We strive to provide accurate and unbiased information, and any opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

Like everything else, how we shop for tires has changed a ton over the last decade. Gone are the days of headache-inducing trips from service chain to service chain. Never again do you have to drive all over town, on the off chance that one of them has your size. Today, as with most things, replacing those worn-down treads is as simple as placing an order on your phone from one of the best places to buy tires.

Most of these online retailers offer the option for delivery – some will even come to your house. Because no one wants to chug along to the shop on donuts, we’ll set you up with a set of tires you don’t even have to put on pants for. No matter how involved you want to be in the process, which brands you prefer (if any), and how much you want to spend, we’ll get you there safely, no spare needed.

Choosing the best place to buy tires online

To decide which tire retailers are the best, we looked at cost, spread, shipping, ease of installation, warranty, and consumer satisfaction.

Best place to buy tires overall: Tire Rack

Image credit: Tire Rack

Pros:

  • Unique full-service experience with fully tested reviews
  • Wide selection of top brands and free shipping on orders above $50

Cons:

  • 30-day return policy only applies to unused treads

When it comes to online tire retails, Tire Rack is heads and shoulders above everyone else. The retailer specializes in wheels, tires, and auto accessories. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Tire Rack works with vetted independent installers across the country who receive and fit the orders. It also tests and rates tires on a hockey rink, road course, and its special testing track. If there ever was a Ferrari of tire stores, Tire Rack would take home the title.

Because it tests the tires before it sells them, Tire Rack can leverage its own database to provide a unique full-service experience with which no one else has the resources to compete. As a result, you can purchase a set of tires from Tire Rack knowing nothing about tires going in. Its Tire Decision Guide narrows down your options by asking you a brief series of questions: What car do you drive? Did you go for the sport package or upgrade the brakes? What conditions will you drive in? In less than two minutes, you’ve got yourself a winner.

Tire Rack scores points with its easy-to-use website and incredible resource center for all things tires. 

In addition to its approachable design and unparalleled resource center, Tire Rack scores points for its wide selection of top brands and free shipping on orders above $50. It is worth noting, however, that Tire Rack’s 30-day return policy only applies to unused treads. That being said, on top of the manufacturer’s warranty, the retailer’s own two-year hazard warranty comes standard. I suppose that makes up for it.

Best lifetime warranty: Walmart

Image credit: Marques Thomas (Unsplash)

Pros:

  • Competitive pricing on a wide selection of tires
  • Many locations offer tire services like mounting and balancing

Cons:

  • Warranty pricing can be inconsistent

Although it can’t match the level of detail in its recommendations offered by specialty retailers like Tire Rack, the tire department at Walmart deserves a second look. Those with antiquated views of Walmart as the ‘Great Value’ option across the board may change their minds when they see everything from premium brands like Goodyear, Michelin, and Bridgestone, in addition to their budget-friendly alternatives. 

Walmart, of course, has the advantage of competitive pricing, but you can also opt for additional services like mounting and balancing – in some cases at no additional cost. That makes Walmart a full-service solution for tire purchases and installation, assuming there’s a store with an Auto Care Center nearby. Its online platform offers free shipping on select tires, and you can have them shipped to your local store for in-person pickup. 

The one caveat is Walmart’s inconsistent warranty pricing. While you do have the option of road hazard insurance, the price ranges from $10 to $14 per tire depending on your state. On top of that, there is a separate lifetime balance and rotation warranty that costs an additional $10 to $14 depending on your state. Still, that’s a pretty great deal for a lifetime of basic tire maintenance, so I’m not complaining.

Best finance options: SimpleTire

Image credit: SimpleTire

Pros:

  • Offers multiple financing options
  • Free shipping and 30-day window for tire returns

Cons:

  • 30-day return policy does not cover used tires

SimpleTire uses a network of independent tire shops nationwide, allowing for a variety of tires and installation spots. When you buy a tire on the website, you can pay ahead for installation. You can also finance your entire purchase, ideal for those unforeseen incidents you didn’t budget for ahead of time, e.g., a nail puncture or a leak… or both. With four different financing options to choose from, as long as you have decent enough credit, you can guarantee approval for at least one of the interest-free options.

You can chat with a tire expert from the retailer to help you select the correct size of tires for your car. Alternatively, you can use its in-house developed SimpleSnap, which lets you take a picture of your current tires and matches it with the exact tire on the site. After being processed within 30 minutes of the order being placed, 25% of customers can expect to receive their tires the next day. The other 75% may have to wait an extra day. Still, shipping is free, and there’s a 30-day window to return tires, provided you didn’t use them first.

Best membership perks: Costco

Image credit: Costco

Pros:

  • Offers a range of quality tires at competitive prices
  • Tire services included in the purchase price

Cons:

  • Must be a Costco member to access tire services and pricing

Costco is well-known for its wholesale approach, and while the average person isn’t going to be purchasing tires in bulk, you can still save a fair amount on your next set. Members can access a range of quality tires from top brands at competitive prices. The Costco Tire Center provides various services, such as tire installation, balancing, rotation, and flat repairs, all included in the tire purchase price. Additionally, there’s a generous 5-year road hazard warranty, which covers ordinary damages like potholes and nails.

One limitation of shopping at Costco is that you must be a member to take advantage of their tire services and pricing. However, StackSocial is currently offering 50% back when you sign up for a yearly membership, the benefits of which we explained at length in another post. Considering it costs $60 at full price, that’s seven chicken bakes you can eat while getting your tires put on. Maybe you shouldn’t, but you can. I’m not your dad.

Best return policy: TireBuyer

Image credit: TireBuyer

Pros:

  • Ships tires to a local installer within its extensive network
  • Generous 45-day return policy for used tires

Cons:

  • Return shipping isn’t always free

Like Tire Rack, you can purchase tires online at TireBuyer, after which they are shipped to a local installer. TireBuyer has an extensive network consisting of over 10,000 installers nationwide. Your tires can reach an installer 24 to 48 hours after placing an order, according to the retailer, making the whole process relatively painless. If that isn’t enough, TireBuyer sweetens the deal with free shipping.

If you inadvertently order the wrong tires, TireBuyer has its own truck fleet, allowing buyers to return tires for free. Alternatively, if you ordered the tires to your doorstep, you might have to cut your losses and eat the cost of sending them back through FedEx. TireBuyer’s 45-day return policy for used tires is generous, even if that comes with an asterisk, those four scary words: terms and conditions apply.

Best tire deals: Discount Tire

Image credit: Discount Tire

Pros:

  • Typically offers the lowest prices with many deals
  • Over 1,000 physical locations for in-person service

Cons:

  • Store locations are limited to specific regions

Discount Tire is another leading name in the digital age of tire commerce. As its name suggests, the site is flooded with so many deals at any given time you should never have to pay full price. Not only does it tend to be the cheapest place to buy tires, but it’s also one of the more flexible options. This retailer caters to the needs of its online and in-person customers (sort of like us!) with more than 1,000 locations across 35 states. Although most are located in the midwest and down south, those with a store nearby can choose between ordering online or doing things the old-fashioned way, if you’re so inclined.

The brick-and-mortar stores also serve as tire installation and balancing centers. Discount Tire has an extensive range of products in its inventory, from popular brands to the more obscure. It also offers an in-house system – Treadwell – allowing users to select the appropriate car tire. If it looks similar to Tire Rack’s Decision Guide, that may have something to do with the fact that Discount Tire acquired Tire Rack in 2021. Turns out it pays to be cheap! 

Other perks of buying from Discount Tires include free ground shipping in the 48 contiguous states, a solid road-hazard warranty, discounts, and promotions. If your purchase isn’t satisfactory, Discount Tires will make it right on the condition that the tires are correctly repackaged.

Best installation network: Amazon

Image credit: Amazon

Pros:

  • Vast selection from industry leaders to budget-friendly alternatives
  • Prime members enjoy free shipping and free returns on specific products

Cons:

  • Warranty coverage can be unclear

Amazon may not be first on your list when you’re shopping for tires, but its vast selection from industry leaders to budget-friendly alternatives makes it a strong contender in the online tire retail space. Partnering with independent installers across the country, Amazon offers a convenient tire installation experience, while Prime members enjoy free shipping on select tires and free returns on specific products.

The user-friendly website helps you find the right tires based on vehicle type, tire size, and brand. Although warranty coverage can be unclear, Amazon’s range of installer-provided warranties compensates for the lack of hazard protection. Overall, Amazon’s diverse selection, competitive pricing, and convenient online shopping experience make it a solid choice for your next tire purchase.

Best shipping time: Priority Tire

Image credit: Priority Tire

Pros:

  • Same-day shipping
  • Generous tire rebates from various manufacturers

Cons:

  • 90-day return policy does not cover used tires

You need some tires and you need them now. Priority Tire offers free ground shipping for anywhere within the continental United States (sorry Hawaii and Alaska) and if you place your order early enough, they will ship out on the same business day.

The search tool Priority Tire has built into the front page makes finding exactly what you need a breeze. Your average driver probably doesn’t know much about tires and would likely struggle to name even a single manufacturer off the top of their head. It’s easy to plug in the year, make, and model of your vehicle to get a curated selection of what will fit for you. But it doesn’t stop there. Priority Tire keeps tabs on any ongoing manufacturer rebates which you can click through to and it will retain your personal vehicle info. You see only the feasible options for you and it makes it easy to ensure you’re getting the best deal you can.

Across the board, most tire dealers return policy tend not to cover any tire that has touched pavement (exaggerated) and Priority Tire is no different – rejecting reimbursement on any tire that has been mounted, damaged, or used by the buyer. That said, there is a wide window of 90 days to make your return which is larger than a lot of other options on this list.

Things to consider when buying tires online

When shopping for tires online, it’s crucial to account for many different factors, such as brands, sizes, and pricing options, to make the best decision for your vehicle.

Overall cost

Consider the final cost of buying tires online, which includes shipping, installation, and the tire price itself. Be cautious of discounted tires, as they may be older and could have potential issues like cracking and drying out, leading to blowouts or loss of traction.

Tire size explained

It’s not uncommon for people to mistakenly purchase the wrong size tires for their cars, leading to the hassle of refunds and replacements. To avoid this, always verify the correct tire size before buying. You can find your tire size on the sidewall, in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, or on the label inside the driver’s side door frame.

Tire size explained image
Image Credit: Discount Tire
  • Section width: Tire width from sidewall to sidewall when mounted.
  • Aspect ratio: Percentage of the tire you can see from the side (so this tire’s height from rim to edge is 55% of the tire width).
  • Tire construction: Tire construction refers to how the tire is built. Most passenger car tires are radial (R).
  • Wheel diameter: The inch diameter of the rim the tire is mounted on, also called rim size.
  • Load index: The load index number refers to a specific weight and is the maximum load each tire can support..
  • Speed rating: Speed rating is the maximum speed a tire can support its maximum load at, from L to Y.

Weather and road conditions

The typical weather and road conditions in your area dictate the kind of tires you need. The tread pattern, tread life, load capacity, speed rating, and fuel efficiency all have an impact on how your tires perform in treacherous environments. Even your warranty matters.

For instance, tires designed for icy conditions won’t perform optimally on dry roads, and vice versa. If you frequently go off-roading or drive on rough terrain, you might want to think about all-terrain or mud-terrain tires for optimal performance.

Other factors to consider when buying tires online include tread pattern, tread life, load capacity, speed rating, fuel efficiency, and warranty.

In conclusion, buying tires online offers convenience and cost-effectiveness, but thorough research is necessary to ensure you get the best tires for your driving needs. With this knowledge, you can confidently compare perks and prices, ensuring the perfect tires arrive at your doorstep.

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Deals

Chargers, phone mounts, and more: our exclusive sale has all the cheap car accessories you forgot you needed

Summer is rolling up quickly and many of us are hankering to get out and drive somewhere nice to enjoy it. Before you roll down your windows and hit the road, you may want to deck out your car with some great road trip essentials. In partnership with Acceleramota, SideDeal is running several promotions at the moment on cheap car accessories from reputable brands. Save on car chargers, phone mounts, and more – in some cases north of 50% off!

Acceleramota x SideDeal: Cheap car accessories that don’t suck

2-Pack: Aukey Dual Port 30-Watt USB-C PD Car Chargers | $20

Cheap car accessories: Aukey car charger 2-pack
Image credit: SideDeal

No more fighting over who gets to plug their phone in during long trips. Next time you’re on the road with family or friends, you can charge up to four phones simultaneously. This pack comes with two car chargers, each with two USB-C ports for 41% off.

Aukey Dual USB-C/USB-A LED Car Charger 36W | $10

Cheap car accessories: Aukey dual USB-C/USB-A LED car charger
Image credit: SideDeal

If you don’t need four phones charging at once, opt instead for this Aukey dual car charger. Featuring both a USB-C and USB-A port, you’ll get a bit more flexibility in what you can charge, while also having the option to charge two devices at a time. Save 55% on yours.

3-Pack: Motorola Talkabout Portable Two-Way FRS/GMRS Radios | $50

Image credit: SideDeal

These two-way multipurpose radios are an excellent solution for photographers or videographers needing to coordinate on rolling shots taken from inside a vehicle. These walkie-talkies also make for a fun little addition to any road trip where friends are split between more than one car. Right now, the three-pack is 50% off.

Naztech MagBuddy Elite Vehicle Phone Mount | $15

Image credit: SideDeal

Some phone mounts can be a little tricky. The one I have has a hidden button in the back to release your phone which works nicely when you know it’s there, but anytime someone riding shotgun wants to queue up a song on Spotify, they end up ripping the mount out of the AC. For those without the luxury of Android Automotive or Apple CarPlay, this one here is stupid-proof, utilizing the magnetic feature of newer iPhones to hold it in place. Get it for 40% off.

6-Pack: ASOTV Emergency Magnetic Road Flares | $30

Image credit: SideDeal

Here we have one of those emergency products you hope you don’t ever need to use, but if the time comes you’ll be glad you have it. These magnetic road flares light up with LEDs and can stick to the sides of your vehicle or be placed on the ground around them in the event you need to pull off to the side of the road due to car trouble. These road flares for 67% off can help keep you safe, especially on dimly-lit streets. When you’re done with that, you may want to check out our online tire shop recommendations.

Tacklife Portable Power Station | $250

Image credit: SideDeal

Speaking of stuff you should just always have in your car, a portable power station makes the top of the list. You’ll be glad you have this backup battery in either emergency situations or simply to take with you on a weekend away outdoors. Charge up to four devices at once the unit itself can recharge with solar power. The power station is currently 58% off.

Naztech Safety Essentials Car Kit | $20

Image credit: SideDeal

This handy kit of cheap car accessories comes with a magnetic mount for your phone that clips into your AC along with a dual USB-A car charger and a hybrid USB-C and Micro USB for Android users or a Lightning cable for iPhone folks. The bundle is a full 50% off right now and it comes in either black or pink.

2-Pack: Aukey Lightning to USB-A Right Angle Fast Charging Cables | $10

Image credit: SideDeal

Depending on how your car’s center console is set up, routing your cables could be a pain. These right-angle charging cables are a good solution to avoiding poor cable management on the road. These ones here are Lightning to USB-A and you can get two of them for 57% off.

Aukey Phone Holder for Car with Super Magnetic Mount | $10

Image credit: SideDeal

Keep your phone off your lap and in your peripheral. There’s no better way to keep an eye on your GPS than with a dashboard phone mount and this one can securely hold your phone in place for 50% off.

2-Pack: JVC 15W Rubberized Wireless Fast Charging Pads | $25

Image credit: SideDeal

What I love about wireless charging is just how simple it is. Put your phone down and boom – it’s charging. These wireless charging pads come as a two-pack and can be used to charge your phone, earbuds, and more. Get them for 58% off.

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Deals

BlackBox vehicle DVR price cut: save 85% on a 1080p dash cam with night vision and motion sensors

TL;DR: A high-quality dash cam can verify what happened in an accident and look out for your car when you can’t. The BlackBox vehicle DVR dash cam records videos in 1080p day or night when it detects motion, and it’s on sale for $21.99 (reg. $149.95). 


Your airbags may protect you during an accident, but a good dash cam could be what keeps you safe after it comes time to prove you weren’t at fault. The BlackBox 1080p dash cam can help you look after your car day and night, and for a limited time, you can get it for only $21.99 (regularly $149.95). 

BlackBox vehicle DVR: an affordable night vision dash cam

Image credit: StackSocial

This dash cam gives you two ways to save yourself a chunk of change. First, it’s 85% off. Second, if your insurance needs proof that you weren’t at fault in an accident, your video recording could make all the difference. A 2016 study in the Journal of Safety Research even reported an 86% decrease in the cost of vehicle crashes once a dash cam was installed.

The BlackBox vehicle DVR activates whenever it detects motion and immediately starts recording in 1080p resolution. The 120-degree wide-angle lens captures the details you might miss or mis-remember, and it even has a built-in microphone so you can document every detail. And it works day or night with the same high-resolution recording. 

Before you install your BlackBox, make sure to insert a TF card to save your footage. This dash cam supports a max capacity of 32GB, but it automatically records over footage after a set period of time. Don’t worry about important footage disappearing, though. The built-in G-sensor tells the camera to permanently save any footage recorded during an impact. If the worst happens and your car crashes, it’ll be safely stored and saved on your TF card. Insert the card into your computer or phone to download the video files in AVI format. 

Get a dash cam that looks out for you

Make sure you can verify exactly what happened in an accident.

Get the BlackBox 1080p Dash Cam on sale for $21.99 (reg. $149). 

Prices subject to change.

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