Should I Replace Tires at a 4S Shop or a Repair Shop?
3 Answers
There is no need to replace tires at a 4S shop, and it is also not advisable to go to a small repair shop. It is recommended to replace tires at a professional tire shop. Pay attention to the production date when replacing tires: When replacing tires, be sure to check the production date marked on the tire. The production date of tires is usually indicated by a four-digit number, with the first two digits representing the week of production and the last two digits representing the year. Tire shelf life: The shelf life of tires is generally 5 years. When replacing with new tires, the production date should not exceed 3 years. However, tires do not indicate an expiration date—only the production date is marked.
Last year when I changed my tires, I struggled with this issue and ultimately chose a local repair shop because the price was much more affordable. A 4S dealership would charge over a thousand yuan for a tire change, including various additional service fees, while the repair shop near my home only cost a little over five hundred yuan, which even included a free inspection and nitrogen filling. The key is to find a reputable shop—avoid those unknown street stalls. The tire brand is also crucial—I chose Michelin, and as long as the size matches the original, it's fine. However, the advantage of a 4S dealership is the guarantee of genuine parts, and if the car is still under warranty, they might offer free chassis inspections. I checked the tire wear myself to ensure there was no uneven wear before feeling at ease. Overall, unless you particularly insist on dealership service, local repair shops offer better value for money and are more convenient and efficient.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I highly recommend getting tires replaced at authorized 4S shops. This isn't baseless advice - tires are critical for driving safety. 4S shops use genuine manufacturer-matched parts, unlike some repair shops that might cut corners with cheap alternatives that could cause issues. Last time I got tires replaced at a 4S shop, they even included a complimentary wheel alignment to ensure even tire wear and prevent blowout risks. While the cost is higher, the enhanced safety during long trips makes it worthwhile. This is especially true for new cars or those still under warranty, as 4S shops follow standardized procedures and can simultaneously inspect brake and suspension systems. Don't cut corners when selecting tires either - pay attention to tire pressure and brand specifications, and never compromise safety for cheaper non-compliant options.
