TireRack.com price worse than local shop

[darxus]

Cost for four new tires from TireRack + shipping + install by local shop highly rated by TireRack: $662.42

Cost for the same tires from and installed by (different) local shop highly rated by Angie's List: $599.20.
($541.24 for tires, $57.96 for install.)

I'm pretty darn surprised the Tire Rack option is 10.6% more expensive than the local shop option.

I'm getting Michelin Primacy MXV4 (Grand Touring All-Season) (H rated) tires, because they're highly rated on TireRack.

Comments

[milktree.livejournal.com]

is either of the local shops Maynard & Lieseure?

[darxus.livejournal.com]

No. The local shop recommended by Angie's List, where I took my car to be inspected and ended up ordering new tires through was Vulc Tech. The one recommended by TireRack, which I have not had any contact with, is Pole's Automotive. Both in Hudson, NH.

Why? Should I be getting tires there? M3 should be needing them soon.

[milktree.livejournal.com]

My experience with M&L is that they always win on price, always. They're not very touchy-feely, so you should know what you want.

The sales schtick is, "This is the price, it includes everything" No haggling, no coupons, no hidden fees, just a price. it includes mounting, balancing, new stems, old tire disposal, rotation in xxx miles, everything.

They're a regional distributor, which is why they're gruff, and cheap. They're also professional, no monkeys messing around with your car. They know tires, and don't try to do anything else.

You *rarely* need to make an appointment, usually you can just show up, but it's a good idea to call first to make sure they have the model and size you want in stock; it's also a good time to ask, "so, can I just drop by?" The answer is nearly always, "yes", and "yes".

However, they're *not* going to care about your driving style, your expected treadwear life, how quiet you like your car, etc. Figure out what you want for the best experience.

[darxus.livejournal.com]

Neat, thanks.

[perspicuity.livejournal.com]

if you get a nail or wire or such in your tyre, M&L can repair it for $15-20, just stop by. that's awesome. same for if you have a bad tire stem, they have a cool trick for that too (no dismount)...

and their a nokian dealer, so, if you need that, there you go. i might have to get some myself if the Winter futures actually, you know, are Wintery again.

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