Auto Expenses: Always Look for the Best Deal

December 09, 2010

My daughter texted me the other day (because that’s what they do) just to check in and let me know how college life is going.  Everything was fine with one little exception; all four tires on her car were officially like her Dad’s head, bald.  Now of course she told me that she would figure out a way to pay for new ones, even if it meant she would have to drive on “baldies” for another month.  I immediately let her know that while I appreciate her being financially independent, I also would like to keep her around for awhile (it’s okay to ask Dad for help!).  I think she actually texted back a sigh of relief.

A week went by and nothing.  I asked what she had found out and she texted a phone number for me to call.  ME TO CALL??!!  I think not.  I let her know that I’m paying but she needs to do the legwork.  Lo and behold, 3 days later I get 4 different quotes and contact information.  Just as I’m about to get on the phone to order, my co-worker asked if I had ever heard of this website for tires.  WHAT?

Now I’m always looking online for the best deals, but tires?  (Note: if you’re comfortable with online shopping, this is a great way to save cash especially if you can find an online coupon!)  So I call this place and sure enough the price was lower!  But, I still had to account for the cost of installation and disposal of old tires.  I asked my daughter how much the shop would charge her for those things and she immediately said that her boyfriend would take care of that.  BINGO.  I ordered the tires and saved $130 plus I get a $40 mail in rebate.

Lesson here: shop around.  Look everywhere and consider different alternatives, even if it entails involving the boyfriend of your daughter.