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Introduction
I set out to get the best set of four tires for my Toyota Sienna van.
Like you, I’m a working professional with limited time.
I don’t know much about car tires and just needed a quick solution to replace my fast balding tires at a reasonable cost.
However, I kept putting it off as I didn’t want to spend the hundreds of dollars.
Used condition
Upon returning to the US in 2023, after living six years in Asia, I purchased my neighbor’s 2004 Toyota Sienna van for $1,900.
At over 220,000 miles and nearing twenty years old, the van is showing its age.
My 2004 Toyota Sienna is an oldie but goodie!
It needed a new battery, shocks, suspension, and set of tires.
Since buying the van, I slowly upgraded what I could on a budget to get the van running at the bare minimum, delaying the major repairs as long as I could.
A renewed urgency
At work, when a second person mentioned how bald my tires were, I knew I couldn’t put off the decision to get a new set any longer.
The co-worker warned, “Did you know your front tires are showing the metal lining, which is very dangerous?”
She continued, “It happened to me one time, when the front tire all of a sudden exploded. It’s very dangerous. You should get it checked out.”
So I decided to take the first steps in getting a new set of tires.
My tire buying journey
Initially, I searched for online advice about buying car tires.
Some people said Walmart sells the cheapest tires but charges for tire installation.
I then thought about Firestone and independent auto shops but, years ago, went through a bad experience from a hire-pressure sales associate trying to convince me to go for the more expensive options.
I then thought of Costco.
A quick search said I could order the tires on the website and have them installed after they arrive.
I went out to my van parked in the driveway and took photos of the tires.
I also Googled my Toyota van’s correct tire size.
After inputting this information on the Costco tire website and, and double-checking the right size, I purchased them.
I ordered a set of four Continental all-season tires, including taxes and fees, which came out to just under $600.00.
The tire installation experience
About two weeks later, my tires arrived at my local Costco and the tire department reached out to have me schedule an appointment.
It just so happened that I needed to make a Costco run that day and combined it with my tire appointment.
On schedule, I went to the tire department, confirmed my appointment and handed over my van keys.
As I finished up my shopping in the store, I stopped at the food court to enjoy a hotdog and soda, and waited for another 30 minutes.
Afterward, I entered the tire department where the clerk said my tires were done.
In all, I spent about one and a half hours getting my new tires installed.
Conclusion
I am very happy with my purchase.
My brand new tires have really improved my van’s driving experience.
New tires are really noticeable and make a big difference.
The tires look great, and I am relieved knowing that my tires won’t inadvertently come apart, possibly causing a road accident.
Also, now that we’re officially in the rainy season, the timing couldn’t have been better.
I am sure glad my co-workers gave me that extra nudge.
The Costco tire department did a wonderful job, making the experience painless.
Next time you’re due for a new set of tires, give Costco a try!
www.InternationalVinh.com
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