What is a Tire Warranty?

A mileage tire warranty is a guarantee provided by the tire manufacturer or retailer that protects you against certain types of defects or issues for a specified period of time or mileage and is usually included with your purchase at no extra cost. While most tires come with a manufacturer's/mileage warranty, the coverage and duration can vary significantly. They typically cover defects in materials or workmanship that cause a tire to fail prematurely. However, they generally do not cover damage from road hazards, like punctures or impacts, or normal wear and tear.

What does a mileage warranty cover?

A mileage warranty or tread life warranty covers you for any premature tread wear that may have occurred before the indicated mileage, typically between 40,000 and 60,000 miles or up to a certain tread wear, i.e.down to 2/32nds of an inch of tread depth. This usually works out to be around four-six years. However, there are usually conditions of care included, like regular rotations (i.e. every 5,000–7,500 miles) and proper inflation and alignment, so be sure to keep a proof of purchase as well as maintenance records. Most warranties will compensate you on a pro-rated basis and give you a partial credit toward a replacement based on remaining tread depth. Standard mileage warranties usually don’t cover you for road hazard damage (unless it states that road hazard is included), improper use, or uneven wear from misalignment. This means that a mileage warranty typically does not cover: damage from nails, potholes, or curbs and irregular wear due to poor maintenance. If you’re looking for coverage for accidental damage, look for warranties that include a road hazard warranty or ask if you can add this at the time of purchase.

What does a road hazard warranty cover?

A road hazard warranty covers damage from unexpected road hazards, such as potholes, nails/screws or broken glass. Some manufacturers include a road hazard warranty within their mileage warranty but most sell it as an optional add on. Road hazard warranties may also be valid for a shorter duration of time than the mileage warranty i.e. the first 12 months, so be sure to check the fine print before filing it away. A road hazard warranty provides extra piece of mind as it includes free tire repair or replacement, depending on the severity and policy. They typically don’t cover wear and tear, or damage from racing/off-roading, or misuse, and cosmetic damage like sidewall scuffing.

Is it worth it to pay extra for a road hazard warranty? 

If a road hazard warranty is not included, it may be worth paying extra for it if you drive in hazard-prone areas where you frequently drive over potholes, like construction zones or gravel roads. Another reason to purchase an additional warranty is if you’re buying premium tires and replacing them may cost between $200–$500 per tire. The one-time warranty fee (typically $10–$25 per tire) will be a good investment on this occasion. Additionally, some road hazard warranties offer unlimited free repairs.

Are tire warranties transferable?

In most cases, tire warranties are not transferable to a new owner. Tire warranties are usually tied to the original purchaser and require proof of the original purchase receipt, and compliance with the warranty’s maintenance requirements (like tire rotations). There are some exceptions, so review the warranty booklet or manufacturer’s website and look for terms like “non-transferable” or “original purchaser only” and if you’re still not sure, contact the the manufacturer or the retailer who sold the tires.

Do all tires come with a warranty?

While most tires come with some kind of warranty, it’s important to read the fine print or ask the salesperson specifically about an aspect that’s important to you. If the tire you are looking to purchase doesn’t come with the right kind of warranty that gives you peace of mind, consider shopping around for other brands or even purchasing an additional one like a road hazard warranty.  Learn more about Tire Warranties in this informative video.

To plan ahead for your next tire rotation, check out this previous blog article:

What is a Tire Rotation?

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