Should I buy a new tire?

[molocono]

It turns out that a nail got caught in my tire and the dealer said they cannot repair because it ripped through all the layers. It went in sideways as opposed to straight down. He says I need to replace the tire.

He put the spare on for now, but asked if I wanted to order a new tire. Here is were I need your advice. Should I buy the new tire from the dealer or go somewhere else and get another tire? Should I keep the spare as my functioning tire (it's the left-rear one)?

2004 4Runner SR5 V6

 

[mike_d]

always replace tires in pairs. but definately don't get it from the dealer. if you have a discount tire near by, they've always been the best price for me. although i usually go to tire rack and get the best price they have and discount tire usually matches their price.

 

[waskillywabbit]

Replacing the tire

If not just a simple puncture that can be filled with a plug, you need to replace the tire as that is the only thing between you and the road, and DON'T make a faulty tire a spare.

Most folks in my opinion WASTE their spare tire by letting it sit in the trunk, etc. dry rotting away and never use it or look at it until they need it and then a lot of times it is in bad shape from lack of use. I personally rotate all 5 tires, that way I get more overall life out of a set of (5) than (4) and I know that I always have an up to snuff spare if I need it. I paid to have a full size spare, might as well get my money's worth out of it!

Replacing tires in pairs is really about mileage, if the tire you have is new and has less than 5K on it like the others, just buy a new tire. If it has more than that, you might consider buying two new ones to put on the front.

Good luck!

:guitar2:

Disclaimer: These are my opinions and may or may not bear any resemblance to sanity.

 

[molocono]

I have 4,600 miles on my truck.

I guess I'm gonna keep the spare on the vehicle and find a tire at a discount place.

Thanks!