A basic winter tire change typically costs between $50 and $200 for a full set of four tires. The exact cost depends on whether your tires are already mounted on rims, require balancing, or need a full installation.
However, costs can increase with additional services and replacements.
Let’s break down the winter tire change cost so you know what you’re really paying for and ensure you’re getting fair value.
This Article Contains:
- Winter Tire Change Cost: What You’re Actually Paying For
- Why Winter Tire Change Costs Vary
- How to Save Money on Your Winter Tire Change
- Should You DIY a Winter Tire Change?
- When to Switch to Winter Tires
Winter Tire Change Cost: What You’re Actually Paying For
Here’s how the cost usually splits:
- Swapping wheels: ~$15–$20 per tire ($60–$80 for a set of four). It involves removing your summer wheels and attaching winter wheels.
- Mounting and balancing: $15–$50 per tire (about $60–$200 per set). This service is needed when your winter tires aren’t pre-mounted. It covers mounting each tire onto the rim and balancing them to prevent vibration and uneven wear.
- TPMS reset or learning: $5–$20 per tire. Many modern vehicles use tire pressure sensors that need recalibration or reprogramming after a tire change. TPMS replacement costs are much higher, ranging between $140 to $400 per tire, covering the price of the new sensor, labor, and programming.
- Inspection, torque, and consumables: $2–$10 per wheel (typically included in the overall “changeover” or installation package). It involves inspecting lug nuts, applying torque to specification, and replacing small consumables, such as valve stems or bead lubricant.
- Disposal or storage of winter tires: $0.25–$2.50 per passenger car tire for recycling and around $10 per month for storage. Shops usually add environmental or cleanup fees, especially if you’re recycling old tires or requesting storage services.
These costs set the baseline. Next, we’ll break down what actually drives the difference between one quote and another.
Why Winter Tire Change Costs Vary
Two shops can quote completely different prices for the same winter tire change service. Here’s why that happens:
- Vehicle size and tire design: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, require bigger, heavier tires that take longer to mount and balance. Low-profile or performance winter tires also require extra care to prevent rim or bead damage, which can increase labor time and cost.
- Tire brand and type: Premium brands, such as Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear, or specialized models like studded and run-flat winter tires, tend to cost more. They often require more precise handling and balancing, adding to labor costs at most professional shops.
- Location and seasonal demand: Service rates typically rise in colder regions or during the first major cold snap, when demand spikes. Booking your appointment early — ideally before temperatures dip below 45°F — can help you avoid peak-season markups and long waits.
- Additional services: Some service centers offer additional services (such as TPMS reset, tire rotation, or seasonal storage) in a flat package, while others itemize them separately. So it’s a good idea to always confirm before booking.
The good news?
A few simple moves can help you reduce costs without compromising quality.
How to Save Money on Your Winter Tire Change
Follow these tips to save money on your next winter tire change:
- Look for early discounts: Many shops run pre-winter promotions or rebates, so booking early can save you a significant amount.
- Check the warranties: Paying a bit more upfront for a tire warranty or road-hazard coverage can save you bigger repair costs later.
- Keep up with maintenance: Proper tire pressure, regular rotations, and correct storage extend tire life by several seasons.
- Drive gently in winter: Smooth braking and steady acceleration reduce wear and protect both your tires and suspension.
You may also be considering a DIY tire change to save money, but before you decide, let’s take a closer look to see if it’s actually worth it.
Should You DIY a Winter Tire Change?
If you have the right tools and a warm garage, a DIY tire change might sound tempting. But it’s rarely as simple as it looks.
Swapping tires safely requires a torque wrench, jack stands, and often a tire balancer — tools that can easily cost $200 to $300. Beyond the upfront cost, you risk uneven wear or sensor damage if the tires aren’t torqued or balanced correctly.
A professional mechanic ensures precise installation, correct torque specs, and TPMS calibration so your tires wear evenly and your safety isn’t compromised.
Instead of spending your weekend swapping tires, you can book a professional service through AutoNation Mobile Service. Our certified mobile mechanics handle tire changeovers, inspections, and winter prep right in your driveway — no waiting rooms, no guesswork.
Now, you may be wondering…
When to Switch to Winter Tires
Experts recommend switching to winter tires once temperatures consistently fall below 45°F.
At that point, all-season tires begin to stiffen and lose grip, while winter tires stay flexible and maintain traction on cold, icy, or slushy roads.
Unsure which tires suit your area best?
Check out our Winter Tires vs. All-Season Tires guide for a complete performance breakdown.
Stay Winter-Ready with AutoNation Mobile Service
A winter tire change is a simple step that makes a big difference in your car’s safety and performance during colder months. It usually costs around $50–$200, depending on your setup and location — and it’s worth every penny to avoid the DIY hassle.
Let AutoNation Mobile Service handle it for you with expert care, upfront pricing, and peace of mind delivered right to your driveway.
Get in touch with us today.