How to Save Money on Snow Tires: Budget-Friendly Guide 2025

The Classic Debate: Are Snow Tires Really Worth It?

For drivers watching their budget, investing in a set of tires you’ll only use for a few months each year might seem unnecessary. On top of that, making the trip to the tire shop twice a year to swap them out can feel like a chore. And if you’re driving an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle equipped with tire chains, it might seem like you’ve already got winter driving covered — right?

Not exactly. A recent survey highlights that snow tires are still a smart investment, even for AWD cars and trucks. They reduce the risk of winter accidents by 5%, and drivers using snow tires are 3% less likely to be seriously injured or worse in a crash. When you consider the potential cost of a collision, the price of snow tires feels like a worthwhile trade-off.

While AWD can help you get moving on snow and ice, it doesn’t solve every problem you’ll face on slick, frozen roads. According to findings, "Our tests clearly show that winter tires often outperform all-wheel drive in critical situations, and that traction differences between snow and ice conditions can be substantial."

So what if you simply throw chains on your all-season tires — does that mean you can skip snow tires altogether? Chains can certainly boost traction, but they come with major drawbacks. You can only use them on fully snow-covered roads, and the moment you hit bare pavement, they have to come off. Unless you’re driving in remote, snow-packed mountain areas every day, chains aren’t a practical, everyday solution.

That’s why LONGMARCH recommends dedicated snow tires for reliable, hassle-free winter driving performance — without breaking the bank.

When Winter Hits, Snow Tires Are the Smart Choice

If you’re facing snowy, icy roads this season, snow tires remain your safest and most reliable option. And while they might seem like a pricey investment, there are smart ways to make them more affordable. Here’s how:

How to Save on Snow Tires

The secret to scoring cheap snow tires is all about timing. Manufacturers and retailers typically roll out promotions and rebates in the months leading up to winter. As manufacturers gear up for the season, their warehouses fill with brand-new, high-quality snow tires, ready to be sold before the first snowfall. This early window is when you’ll find the best deals — while inventory is high and competition among sellers drives prices down.

Shop Early for the Best Deals

Act fast, though, because those discounts and rebates won’t last forever. Most snow tire offers expire in October, November, or December. If you wait until after December, you’ll miss out, as demand peaks and promotions disappear. It’s a classic “early bird gets the worm” situation. By January, winter’s in full force, snow tires are in high demand, and prices tend to climb without rebates in sight.

Save Money by Swapping Tires Yourself

Want to cut costs even further? You can save on labor fees by changing your tires at home. While it’s a bit of a challenge for beginners, it’s doable with some effort, patience, and basic tools. Here’s a straightforward guide to mounting winter tires on your rims:

Tools You’ll Need:

Valve stem core remover

Two pry bars

Rubber mallet

Soapy water in a spray bottle (or spray lubricant)

Jack

Tire iron

Air compressor

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Remove Wheels: Use a jack and tire iron to safely remove the wheels from your vehicle.

Release Air Pressure: Carefully remove the valve stem core using the remover tool. Make sure all air is released before proceeding.

Break the Tire Bead: Slowly drive a heavy vehicle (like a truck) over the edge of the tire, avoiding contact with the rim. Repeat on both sides until the bead separates from the rim.

Lubricate the Tire Wall: Spray the inner tire wall near the rim with soapy water or lubricant to ease removal.

Remove the Tire: Lay the wheel flat with the front side up. Use a pry bar to lift the tire over the rim’s edge.

Loosen the Back Side: Stand the wheel upright, spray the back side of the tire with lubricant, and use a pry bar and rubber mallet to work the tire off completely.

Install the New Tire: Apply lubricant to the new tire’s sidewalls. Use pry bars and a mallet to work the tire onto the rim.

Set the Bead: Rest the wheel against a sturdy surface and kick the rim firmly to set the bead.

Inflate the Tire: Rotate the tire to seat it evenly, then use an air compressor to inflate it. The tire should pop securely into place on the rim.

Pro Tip: Be careful — this method requires elbow grease and attention to detail. Minor rim scratches are possible, so proceed with caution if you’re new to tire swaps.

In this guide, we’ve shared practical ways to help you navigate the snow tire market without straining your budget. As winter approaches, remember — with the right choices, you can enjoy better traction, safer driving, and peace of mind on icy roads, all without overspending. Stay prepared, drive smart, and keep both your confidence and your budget intact.

FAQs

1. How much should a set of snow tires cost?

The cost of snow tires can vary widely based on factors like brand, size, and type. You can expect to spend between $400 to $800 on average for four snow tires. Premium or larger-sized tires may be on the higher end of this range, while budget-friendly options may fall toward the lower back.

2. When Are Snow Tires the Most Affordable?
Snow tires tend to be most budget-friendly during the off-season — typically in the spring and summer months. As demand drops after winter, retailers often lower prices to clear out inventory. Shopping for snow tires during these quieter months can help you score significant savings before prices rise again in the fall.

3. How Much Do Two Snow Tires Cost?
Buying two snow tires instead of a full set of four will cost about half as much. Depending on the tire size, brand, and specifications, a pair of snow tires usually ranges from $200 to $400. Keep in mind, though, that for maximum safety and consistent handling in winter driving conditions, it’s generally recommended to install a full set of four snow tires.

4. Should I Use Two or Four Snow Tires?
While it’s possible to equip just two snow tires — typically on your vehicle’s drive wheels (front or rear) — it’s not the safest option. Using four snow tires provides balanced traction, stability, and control, especially on snowy or icy roads. For the best protection and vehicle performance during winter, installing a complete set of four snow tires is highly recommended.