Not too long ago, buying car tyres meant booking time off, heading to a garage, and hoping they had your size in stock. These days, it’s a different game. Ordering tyres online has become just as common as booking a service, and with a bit of know-how, it can be quick, affordable and completely hassle-free. If you’re ready to replace your tyres but want to skip the waiting room, visit Magowan Tyres website to buy car tyres and see just how easy it can be.
Know Your Tyre Size Before You Start
Before diving in, the first thing you’ll need is the correct tyre size. It’s written on the sidewall of your current tyres — usually a mix of numbers and letters like 215/60 R16. This tells you the width, height ratio, diameter, and tyre construction.
If you’re not near your car, you can also check your vehicle handbook. Better still, some websites let you pop in your reg number, and they’ll pull up your options in seconds. Handy if you’re not too keen on crawling around in the driveway.
Which Type of Tyre Do You Actually Need?
Not every tyre suits every driver. There’s no point forking out for high-performance tyres if your car rarely sees more than 40 mph on the school run. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s out there:
Your driving style, weather, and how often you’re on the road should all factor into your decision.
What Makes Online Shopping for Tyres Worthwhile?
Let’s be honest — price plays a big part. Tyres bought online are often cheaper than at your local garage, simply because online retailers don’t have the same overheads. On top of that, you get access to a wider selection of brands and models — not just whatever’s in stock that day.
But it’s not just about saving money. Shopping online gives you time to compare options, read reviews from other drivers, and avoid being pressured into making a snap decision in front of a fitter.
Reading the Label – What Those Ratings Really Mean
Tyres sold in the UK come with standard EU labels showing:
A tyre with a high fuel efficiency rating can genuinely save you a bit on your fuel bill over time, especially if you do a lot of motorway miles. Meanwhile, a good wet grip rating is worth prioritising — especially with the British weather being what it is.
Booking Fitting – What Happens After You Order?
Once you’ve picked your tyres and paid, you’ll usually be given a choice of fitting options. Most sites offer:
Check what’s included in the fitting fee — some offer extras like wheel balancing, new valves, and even old tyre disposal. Others don’t, so it’s worth checking before you book.
A Few Common Mistakes to Dodge
Online tyre shopping’s simple enough, but people do still trip up now and then. Here’s what to avoid:
How to Keep Your Tyres in Good Nick
Once your new tyres are fitted, a few simple checks will help them last longer: