Should you buy a road hazard warranty?

Road hazard warranties are often promoted as ideal for punctured tires. However, even though puncture repairs are free with a warranty, it’s rare to save money due to its initial cost. So, paying $40 to $80 for a warranty to cover two years’ worth of potential puncture repairs does not make sense.

  • If you drive in construction zones and experience a high rate of punctures, a road hazard warranty is a very good investment. It’ll cover the cost of the repairs and replacement if the tire can’t be repaired. And, if you drive in an area with large potholes that can damage the tire’s belts, you should buy a road hazard warranty.

Is Walmart road hazard warranty worth it?

Whether or not the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty is worth it is debatable. At a minimum, you’ll pay $40 and if you want the Lifetime Balance plan, you’ll pay $80. The road hazard plan doesn’t last for long, making the Discount Tire plan a better purchase.

Are tire warranties useless?

A tire warranty is basically useless They’re usually valid only for a certain amount of time, typically a year. Some companies base the coverage on tire wear, commonly offering protection only for the first 2/32 of an inch of tread.

Does road hazard cover sidewall damage?

Road hazard does not cover the following items: damage from off-road use, collision, fire, vandalism, theft, show chains, manufacturer’s defect, abuse and neglect (i.e., improper inflation, overloading, brake lock up, wheel spinning, torque snags, etc.), cosmetic damage, sidewall abrasions or other appearance items

How long does Walmart road hazard warranty last?

How Long Does The Road Hazard Warranty At Walmart Last? This plan covers the life span of the Walmart tire that the warranty is bought with until the customer decides to change the tire completely ( estimated 25,000-mile life span for tires ).

How much does Walmart charge for road hazard warranty?

Walmart offers a road hazard warranty for $10 per tire. The warranty covers unforeseen road hazards, flat repairs and free replacement of non-repairable tires within the first 25% of tread wear.

How long does a tire warranty last?

Generally, these warranties cover tires for four, five, or six years from the date of purchase, depending on the manufacturer. This type of warranty essentially guarantees that you’ll get a certain number of miles of use out of your tires before they wear out.

What is road hazard warranty?

What is a Road Hazard Warranty? Road hazard warranties specifically cover damage to the tire caused through non-negligent driving. This can include driving over nails, broken glass, or other unexpected debris in the road.

What does a 60000 mile tire warranty mean?

Most tread-life warranties will not replace a prematurely worn out tire at no cost. Let’s say you bought a tire with a 60,000 mile warranty and it wore out at 40,000 miles. That means you used 70% of the warranty mileage (40,000 ÷ 60,000 =. 70).

Do tire warranties cover nail punctures?

Limited Road Hazard Warranty. This warranty covers you for damage due to road hazards like potholes and nail punctures. Some manufacturers offer this type of warranty for the first year of a tire’s life. This type of tire warranty is most often offered by tire stores and varies from one company to another.

Is hitting a curb considered a road hazard?

It will cover your costs if you blow out a tire or damage your rims due to hitting a road hazard. A road hazard is anything that shouldn’t be on the roads – such as potholes, debris, dead animals and the like. Crashing into a curb is not considered a road hazard, and this is where things can get tricky.

Is a pothole considered a road hazard?

Know the definition of “road hazards:” StreetDirectory.com says “road hazards are potholes, debris, nails, wood and other hazards found in the road. Curbs, sidewalks and stone walls are not road hazards.” Tire insurance coverage is contingent on how the tire was damaged (and by implication, your driving skills).

Is road hazard a comprehensive or collision?

Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car caused by something other than a collision, such as a fire, natural disaster, falling object or vandalism. Collision insurance covers repairs to your own car when you hit another vehicle, an object like a tree or fence, or a road hazard like a guardrail.

Is Douglas a good tire?

Douglas Performance Tire The Douglas Performance tires are all-season tires that are stable and balanced while on the road. These particular tires can fit on a variety of minivans and cars and have black sidewalls for a better appearance. They come with a 45,000-mile warranty and are a good value for money.

Can you return tires after driving them Walmart?

Walmart Tire Warranty Coverage When you purchase a tire from Walmart, you can return it within 90 days and get a refund, provided it is unused. If you want to get repairs or replacements, Walmart offers a Road Hazard warranty for $10 a tire.

Does Walmart fix free flats?

Walmart does fix flat tires at locations with an Auto Care Center as of 2021. Typically, the price of fixing a flat tubeless tire at Walmart starts at $15 per tire and can take 1-5 hours to fix. If the flat tire is beyond repair, Walmart also offers tire installation services from $10 per tire.

Is Road Hazard Warranty for Tires Worth It?

If you’ve ever purchased tires, you’ve almost certainly been pushed by the salesperson to purchase a road hazard warranty. Most of the time, these warranties cost anywhere between 10 and 12 percent of the entire cost of the tires and cover things like ‘damage to the tire that happens as a consequence of normal driving.’ A discussion over whether or whether a road hazard warranty is even worthwhile purchasing, and if so, when it makes the most sense to make the investment in this upgrade, is worthwhile given the ambiguity of the provisions underpinning this warranty.

Photo courtesy ofDenny Müller via Unsplash.

What is a Road Hazard Warranty?

Road hazard warranties are designed to cover damage to a tire that is caused by non-negligent driving practices. For example, it is possible to drive over nails, shattered glass, or other unanticipated material while driving. It’s vital to remember that this form of warranty will not cover damage to the vehicle caused by the user’s negligence or misconduct. As a result, if your tires are destroyed as a result of driving faults such as mounting the curb or maintenance concerns such as underinflation, your guarantee will be null and invalid.

Crunching the Numbers Around Road Hazard Warranties

In the case of road hazards, you may obtain tire puncture repairs as well as tire replacements at no additional cost. As a result, in order to decide if such a guarantee is worthwhile, we need consider how much it would normally cost to fix a puncture and replace a tire, as well as the possibility that a motorist would require such a repair or replacement at some point.

Repairing a Punctured Tire

Road hazard warranties are frequently marketed as being the best option for punctured tires. Despite the fact that puncture repairs are free under a guarantee, it is unusual to save money because of the high initial cost of the repair. It costs between $10 and $20 to fix a punctured tire, depending on the size of the tire. When you do the arithmetic, even if you have four tire punctures at the same time, you’ll only be paying between $40 and $80. Punctures in tires are quite rare. Experts believe that the majority of drivers will have no more than five tire punctures during their driving careers — and that these punctures will not generally occur at the same time.

Most auto insurance policies, on the other hand, will include an option for roadside assistance, which can help with tire repairs.

What About Tire Replacement?

This means that purchasing a road hazard guarantee isn’t the ideal option when it comes to tire maintenance. What happens if you have to change a tire from the ground up? While the cost of a single tire might vary based on your area and the type of tires you choose, the average cost of a single tire for a typical automobile can range from $70 to $150 on average. Tires for high-end automobiles, SUVs, and trucks can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000 or more each set. When you consider the circumstances, spending $20 per tire for your warranty appears to be a fantastic deal.

Tires are often replaced when they have been subjected to significant damage.

Tire repairs are covered under collision insurance if the tire damage happens as a result of more extensive damage to the vehicle.

Tire blowouts that do not result in significant vehicle damage nearly always occur when the tires are underinflated or worn out. As a result, the road hazard warranty becomes superfluous in the case of these sorts of incidents.

Is There a Scenario Where This Warranty Makes Sense?

While the ordinary car owner should avoid obtaining a road hazard warranty, if you are getting low-profile tires for your vehicle, it may make sense to do so. Low profile tires feature a shallower sidewall than conventional tires, making them more maneuverable. These sorts of tires are typically seen on sports and high-performance automobiles with bigger wheels and tires with a low profile. And while they might seem impressive,this sort of tire is known for being readily destroyed. Because of their greater fragility, it is possible to sustain tire damage that necessitates tire replacement without sustaining any more vehicle damage.

Putting it All Together

Whenever car owners purchase new tires, auto dealerships are quick to propose that they upgrade to a road hazard warranty. However, there are few instances in which the expense is justified, particularly since human mistake and irregular auto maintenance might void the guarantee. With fewer restrictions to tire coverage, a decent auto insurance policy is a superior preventative step in the vast majority of situations. This form of tire guarantee is unnecessary unless your vehicle has low-profile tires, in which case you should save your hard-earned money and avoid purchasing it.

Is Tire Road Hazard Protection Worth It?

The most recent update was in December 2021. Purchasing road-hazard insurance for your new ‘investment’ (as if you were purchasing real estate) may be offered to you while you are shopping for tires, and you may feel forced to do so. Some businesses, such as BJ’s Wholesale Club, Costco, and Sam’s Club, offer this sort of coverage for free, while many others charge an additional $50 to $200 to cover a set of four tires, depending on the size of the set. Damage to tires caused by road hazards while driving in normal conditions is covered by the insurance.

  • However, if you have a flat tire as a result of an accident such as going over a curb or other driver-caused errors, you will receive nothing.
  • These plans aren’t a fantastic offer unless they’re completely free.
  • In the same way that you can’t forecast when or where you’ll get a flat, you can’t predict which tire will get a flat, therefore you’ll need to get a plan that covers all four tires.
  • This is a good investment.
  • The reality is that, as with any form of ‘protection plan’ promoted by big-ticket vendors, what you’re really getting is insurance that is very profitable for the seller while providing no value to the customer.

If the roadside assistance component of one of these plans is important to you, you may consider becoming a member of the AAA, which provides a variety of membership advantages in addition to roadside assistance.

Purchasing a Warranty for Road Hazards

A former insurance producer, Laura understands that education is key when it comes to buying insurance. She has happily dedicated many hours to helping her clients understand how the insurance marketplace works so they can find the best car, home, and life insurance products for their needs.Full Bio → Written byFormer Insurance Agent
Joel Ohman is the CEO of a private equity backed digital media company. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, author, angel investor, and serial entrepreneur who loves creating new things, whether books or businesses. He has also previously served as the founder and resident CFP® of a national insurance agency, Real Time Health Quotes. He has an MBA from the University of South Florida. Jo.Full Bio → Reviewed byJoel OhmanFounderCFP®

THE DATE HAS BEEN UPDATED: May 26, 2020 Advertisers’ Statement of Intent

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Advertiser Disclosure: We endeavour to provide you with the information you need to make confident auto insurance decisions. Shopping for the best deal should be straightforward. We are not linked with any one auto insurance provider and hence cannot guarantee quotations from any certain company. Our content is not influenced by our relationships. Our thoughts and opinions are all our own. To compare rates from leading vehicle providers, just input your ZIP code in the box above and click on the ‘Get Quotes Now’ button.

Editorial Policies: We provide a free online resource for anybody who is interested in learning more about vehicle insurance.

Our mission is to serve as an objective, third-party resource for everything relating to vehicle insurance.

Here’s all you need to know about the subject.

What exactly is a road hazard warranty?

A road hazard warranty, which differs depending on the condition of the roads you often travel on, protects you from potentially hazardous road conditions. The majority of new tires are also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. Manufacturer’s warranties, in contrast to road hazard warranties, cover the consumer from flaws in the workmanship of the manufacturer. Proving that a new tire is faulty when the manufacturer hasn’t previously discovered the problem might be difficult as well, especially in some cases.

Read the fine print of your carrier’s policy, just as you would with any other type of insurance coverage.

How does a road hazard warranty work?

The majority of road hazard warranty insurance include coverage for the pro-rata cost of your tires. Following a successful claim, if your relatively new tires are ruined, you will get a pro-rated reimbursement from the insurance carrier. If you have only utilized around 10% of the tread on your tire, your road hazard warranty insurance should reimburse you for approximately 90% of the tire’s purchase price. Make certain that you understand the intricacies of the cost basis employed by the insurance provider.

In the event that a tire fails within the first 25 percent of its usable tread life, some road hazard warranty insurance will reimburse you 100 percent of your cost basis.

The availability of a larger number of prospective tire repair facilities or emergency road service support may potentially be an advantage of national road hazard warranties.

Does road hazard warranty insurance save money on traditional car insurance rates?

You should keep in mind that your auto insurance prices are based on your driving and claims filing records. Whether you require a single tire or numerous tires due to road dangers you have faced, you will enjoy getting a pro-rated reimbursement for your tire or tires. The road hazard warranty insurance carrier may also cover flat tire repairs, tire changing assistance, and tire re-balancing services, depending on the terms of your policy. The majority of road hazard guarantees include the conditions that must be met in order for the warranty to remain in effect.

When you compare your auto insurance rates with comparative auto insurance quotes, it is possible to save money!

Is Tire Road Hazard Warranty Worth It?

After spending more than $500 on new tires for your car, you’ve decided to share your experience with us. As a rule, tire manufacturers provide warranties, so why would I need to purchase a tire road hazards warranty when my tires are already covered by warranty? You’ve taken care of your tires for the time being and won’t have to bother about them again, right? Wrong. Consider the following scenario: you and your family are on a cross-country road trip. The weather is wonderful, and your drive has been going smoothly up until you glance down and find that the tire sensor light is illuminated on the dashboard.

  1. You’ve just received a new set of tires!
  2. Then you recall the enormous pothole you encountered a few kilometers earlier.
  3. You’re a long way from home, or even from a mechanic’s shop for that matter, so you’re stuck.
  4. Yes, it is possible!

What does Tire Road Hazard Warranty cover?

There are many different tire road hazard warranties to choose from, and it is important to read the fine print so that you understand what your plan covers. Any damage to the tire as a result of a road hazard is covered under the Nationwide Tire Protection Plan road hazard warranty that Hilltop Tire Service provides. For example, if you are traveling across the country and get a flat tire, the Nationwide Tire Protection plan will ensure that you are well cared for!

  • Tire replacement for free for the first 33 percent (one-third) of useable tread, prorated afterwards, if the tire cannot be fixed
  • Free flat repairs for the duration of the plan
  • And more. In the event that you return the flat to HTS for repair, we will cover the total cost of the flat repair up to a maximum of $20. coverage for the first three years from the date of purchase or until the tire is worn down to 2/332nd of an inch (whichever comes first) (the top of the built-in indicators in the tread grooves). In addition to non-commercial cars, there is also roadside flat tire changing help and reimbursement. Additionally, there is nationwide coverage, with hundreds of dealers in all 50 states.

How much does Tire Road Hazard warranty cost?

It costs as low as $15 per tire, up to a maximum of $150 in tire value, to enroll in the Tire Protection Plan Road Hazard Warranty. For tires that cost more than $150 per tire, the fee is 10% of the tire’s total cost (not per tire). The Tire Protection Plan, for example, would cost you $20 per tire if your tires were each $200 in cost.

Can I decide later to buy the Road Hazard plan?

Unfortunately, you must determine whether or not you qualify for the Tire Protection Plan at the time of purchase. Consider that in the context of home insurance; you would not be able to purchase home insurance after experiencing a house fire.

What does Tire Manufactures warranty cover?

To be eligible for the Tire Protection Plan, you must make your decision at the time of purchase.

For example, if you were in the market for home insurance after a fire, you would not be able to obtain coverage.

The final answer is…

To be honest, the Nationwide Tire Protection Plan is well worth the money. Future tire expenditures for tire maintenance and replacement will be reduced as a result of your actions. In addition, it will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you are protected when you are away from your local Hilltop Tire Service Center location. Please inform our tire specialists that you would want the Nationwide Tire Protection Plan to be added to your invoice when you are ready to purchase tires the next time you are ready to do so.

Is the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty Worth It?

If you own a car, you will require tires, which will not be an inexpensive buy! If you purchase your tires fromWalmart, not only will you save money, but you will also have the option to put on an additionalWalmart Road Hazard Warranty to further safeguard your investment. Throughout the life of your tires, Walmart provides two tire protection plans, both of which are intended to help you save money on unanticipated tire difficulties. Is the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty a good deal, or is it just another ploy to get you to spend money you don’t have to?

What is the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty?

Walmart offers two road hazard warranty programs: one for vehicles and one for trailers.

  • Walmart Road Hazard Warranty – This warranty protects you against unexpected flat tires as well as typical wear and tear on the tires themselves. Retailers such as Walmart will repair a tire or replace an unrepairable tire for free, but only if the tire has at least 25 percent of its original tread remaining.
  • Walmart Lifetime Balance Plan Guarantee – This warranty covers your tires for the duration of their life and assists you in keeping them in optimal condition. The Lifetime Balance Plan Warranty covers the cost of all tire rotation and balancing for the duration of your ownership of the tires, regardless of how much wear is left on them.

How Does the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty Work?

The Road Hazard Warranty provided by Walmart is in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty. Most tires are covered by some form of manufacturer’s guarantee, which protects you against faults in the manufacturing process as well as premature wear and tear under regular use. This implies that if you damage your vehicle by running over a nail or hitting the sidewall of a curb, the manufacturer’s guarantee will not cover the damage. You’d be on the hook for the purchase of a new tire as well as the labor to install it.

Even while the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty may not cover every condition, it does cover more than what is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty.

Consider it the equivalent of going to the doctor for a yearly physical.

You’ll be required to pay for the service up front, but you’ll be able to bring your car into any Walmart Auto Care Center for a free tire rotation and balancing in the future.

How Much does the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty Cost?

The Walmart Road Hazard Warranty as well as the Lifetime Balance Plan warranty are also available at an additional fee. You pay the full retail price for the tires and have the option of adding either a road hazard warranty or a treadwear warranty.

Both plans are $10 per tire or $40 for the entire set. By selecting both, you would pay an additional $80 on top of what you paid for the tires, but you would be protected in the event that something happens while you are driving, as well as when your tires need to be rotated or balanced.

What’s Covered on the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty?

The Walmart Road Hazard Warranty provides coverage for any difficulties you encounter while driving that cause damage to your tires. It is covered under the road hazard warranty if you run over a nail, strike a workhorse, or hit a pothole, causing damage to your tire. It also covers flat tire repairs, and if they are unable to fix it (because there are too many holes or the damage is too severe), they will replace the tire at no cost to you, provided that you are still within the first 25 percent of tread wear.

What’s not Covered?

Preventative maintenance, such as tire rotation and balance, are not covered by the Walmart Road Hazard guarantee. The preventative service will necessitate the use of the Lifetime Balance Plan warranty. Aside from that, the road hazard warranty plan does not cover the expense of replacing an unrepairable tire if it has been worn down to 25 percent of its original tread depth. At that point, you’d be responsible for the expense of fixing the tire on your own own.

How to File a Walmart Road Hazard Warranty Claim?

If you have a tire problem and have purchased the Walmart Road Hazard guarantee, you must make a claim either over the phone or in person to be eligible for reimbursement.

Making a Road Hazard Warranty Claim on the Phone

To reach the Walmart Auto Care Center, dial 1-800-925-6278 and inquire for theWalmart Auto Care Center. You’ll chat with a representative and explain the situation before scheduling an appointment to bring your car to a Walmart auto facility.

Making a Road Hazard Warranty Claim in Person

Alternatively, if you’re in a real jam and you’re close to a Walmart, you may attempt strolling into the auto center without making an appointment to inform them of your situation. Depending on the situation, they may be able to inspect your automobile straight soon or they may want you to book an appointment.

What if Walmart Denies your Road Hazard Warranty Claim?

If Walmart rejects your claim for a road hazard warranty, you have the opportunity to file an appeal. If you are aware that you are inside the 25 percent tread limit and that the matter is covered, you may file an appeal with the court. Contact a management at your local auto care business, or call 1-800-925-6278 and ask to speak with a supervisor on the other end of the phone. Make certain you have a substantial amount of evidence/reasons to support your claim that the decision was incorrect.

Walmart Road Hazard Warranty vs Discount Tire Certificate for Repair, Refund or Replacement

Discount Tireis another another well-known business where you may get tires at a low rate. Discount Tire, like Walmart, offers a program to help you preserve the money you’ve invested in your tires. It’s referred to as a Certificate for Repair, Refund, or Replacement in some circles. The way it works is as follows. Discount Tire’s policy, in contrast to Walmart’s program, covers the tire until the last legal thread of tread (up to 3/32′ of an inch). Additionally, the tire must be within the first three years of use after it was purchased.

They will also allow you to acquire a new tire that is the same or identical to the one you already have for the same price, effectively exchanging the tire.

When it comes to mileage or tire age, they don’t prorate the price; if you’re within the 3-year restriction and the tread usage, you’ll get the entire amount charged.

Walmart Road Hazard Warranty FAQs

Buying tires at a lower price from Discount Tire is another popular option. Discount Tire, like Walmart, offers a program to help you preserve the money you’ve spent on tires. Certificate for Repair, Refund, or Replacement is the name given to this document. The way it works is as follows: Instead of covering the tire until the last permissible thread of tread (up to 3/32′), Discount Tire’s program covers the tire until the last legal thread of tread. It is also necessary that the tire has been in use for no more than three years since it was bought.

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It also allows you to acquire a new tire that is the same or equivalent for the same price, basically swapping the old tire for the new one.

How long is the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty good for?

Walmart advertises that the Road Hazard Warranty is valid for the life of the tire, but their small print specifies that it is only valid for the first 25% of the tire’s tread wear period. This is in contrast to the Discount Tire plan, which guarantees the tire’s operation as well as the option to have it fixed for the life of the tire (up to 3/32′ in diameter).

Are Walmart tires under warranty when you buy them?

When you purchase tires from Walmart, they are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. The warranty period and length vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, just as they do with any other device. Before purchasing them, check with the maker or contact a Walmart salesperson for advice.

What does a normal tire warranty not cover?

Tire warranties cover manufacturing flaws as well as premature wear and tear, even when the tires are used in typical conditions. Damage resulting from any of the following is not covered by insurance: – Failure to perform routine tire care, such as rotating, balancing, and inflating the tires on a regular basis Theft or vandalism are examples of reckless driving. Improper use of a vehicle is another.

Do you need a new road hazard plan when you buy new tires?

If you wish to add a Road Hazard Plan and a Lifetime Balance Plan to your car’s tires, you’ll have to purchase them every time you change the tires. Each time you replace your tires, you will be charged $40 for the service. However, the guarantees are only valid for as long as the tires are in use, not the vehicle itself. Most tires have a lifespan of 4 to 6 years, however this varies depending on how far you drive, in what circumstances you travel, and how you drive. Because the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty only covers the first 25 percent of wear, you won’t be covered for the whole life of most tires under normal circumstances.

Final Thoughts – Is the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty Worth It?

It is arguable whether or not the Walmart Road Hazard Warranty is a good investment. You’ll pay a minimum of $40, and if you choose the Lifetime Balance plan, you’ll spend an additional $80. The road hazard plan is only effective for a limited time period, making the Discount Tire plan a more advantageous buy.

While they do not divulge the cost, it is a fraction of the cost of a new tire, and it lasts for the life of the tire or until the tire reaches its legal tread limit, whichever occurs first.

Tire Warranty

When you purchase replacement tires for your passenger car, compact vehicle, sport utility vehicle, SUV, or light truck, many tire dealers will provide you with an optional road hazard warranty. For larger truck tires, as well as tires used in commercial or racing applications, these additional guarantees are often not available. Also excluded from the standard coverage are the tires that come with new vehicles, although some car dealerships will offer you their own optional coverage packages, which may include fabric protection as well as paint sealant, theft protection and other options to help you protect your new vehicle.

Are all road hazard warranty plans the same?

No, they are certainly not the same thing. The pricing is different, the convenience is different, and, most significantly, the coverage is different as well. Please continue reading.

With a road hazard protection plan, the devil is in the details.

It is your responsibility to obtain all of the necessary information before saying ‘yes.’ The best plans provide simple, straightforward descriptions of what is covered and for how long it is covered. When it comes to road hazard protection plans, pro-rating based on tread wear is less desired than plans that would replace the tire depending on the amount of time left on the tread. For example, ‘Free replacement if the tire is not repairable for the first year, and half-priced replacement in the second year’ is far preferable to ‘pro-rated replacement’ because, in the latter case, you may be required to pay a portion of the cost as soon as a month or two down the road if the tire cannot be repaired.

Inquire as to whether the cost of installation (including mounting and balancing) is included in the ‘free’ replacement.

More details about a road hazard warranty!

While some tire sellers may offer to ‘throw in’ a road hazard guarantee as a way to complete the sale, this free offer may only provide minimal protection. Example: a road hazard protection plan may cover tire repairs (which generally cost $20), but if the tire cannot be repaired, you will be on your own to pay for the replacement. Once again, be sure you understand what is and is not covered by the policy by asking questions. Make certain that you receive a written copy of the plan or that your insurance coverage is reflected on your invoice.

With a road hazard protection plan, where can you go for service?

Make sure you understand if you must return to the original place of purchase or to any of the dealer’s other locations, or what you should do if you are traveling and not in close proximity to any participating dealer. In addition, ask the following questions:

  • What is the deadline by which you must return the damaged tire to receive your money back? What is the money limit on the replacement tire
  • Are you accountable for any sums beyond the initial cost of the tire
  • What is the dollar limit on the replacement tire
  • Is it possible to obtain road hazard coverage on the new tire from your original dealer at a later date? Is there a toll-free number I may contact to inquire about reimbursement?

Is it necessary to return the damaged tire in order to receive a refund? ; When it comes to the new tire, what is the monetary limit? Are you accountable for any sums that go above and above the original tire cost? Is it possible to obtain road hazard coverage on the new tire from your original dealer at a later date; and What is the toll-free number I may contact to inquire about reimbursement?

Are any other benefits included in your road hazard protection plan?

Some plans merely cover flat tire repairs, while others cover tire repairs plus give coverage for tire replacement if a repair is deemed insufficient or ineffective.

If these services are not already included with the initial tire purchase, the best may additionally include services such as free lifetime tire balancing (which is generally $10 per tire on its own), free wheel alignment examinations, and free tire rotations.

How much do road hazard warranties cost?

As a proportion of the tire’s selling price, many programs charge 12 percent or 15 percent of the tire’s selling price. This implies that a $175 tire may cost you between $21 and $26.25 to cover. The best plans include a specific payment, for example, $10, that covers tires regardless of the cost of replacement.

Can you decide later to buy road hazard warranty coverage?

Some dealers will not push you to make a decision at the time of purchase, and you will not lose your chance to obtain coverage if you do not do so. That means you may consult with your significant other or your uncle, who is an expert on automobiles and tires, for their opinions on the matter. Of course, this results in the inconvenience of having to make a second trip to the tire store. It also entails crossing one’s fingers that nothing bad happens. If this is the case, purchasing coverage afterwards is analogous to calling State Farm for fire insurance after a home fire has occurred.

If you are able to return to the store after the sale to acquire the coverage, find out if there are any time or mileage restrictions.

And the Final Answer Is.

A few of dealers will not compel you to make a decision at the time of purchase, unless you want to risk losing your chance to obtain coverage altogether. That means you may seek assistance from your significant other, or from your uncle, who is an expert on automobiles and tires. As a result, the tire dealer must be visited again, which is an inconvenience. It also entails crossing one’s fingers that nothing bad will occur. If this is the case, purchasing coverage afterwards is analogous to calling State Farm for fire insurance after a home fire has occurred.

Inquire about time and mileage restrictions if you are able to return to the store after the sale to complete the purchase of coverage.

Tire Insurance: Myths And Facts About Road Hazard Policies

Insurance may be found almost anywhere. You can insure just about anything these days. Is it necessary to insure tires as a long-term investment? Road hazard insurance, often known as road hazard warranty or tire reimbursement plan, is a fast expanding market in the automobile sector. When ‘road hazards’ cause damage to tires and/or rims, tire warranty plans will pay in full or in part for the replacement or repair of the tires and/or rims. Potholes, trash, nails, wood, and other road hazards are all classified as road hazards by the Department of Transportation.

  • You should take this into consideration when determining whether or not tire insurance is appropriate for you (discussed further ahead).
  • Some plans are only valid for two to three years.
  • Several plans are available with fixed levels of coverage, such as $500 per year for up to four years in some cases.
  • The tread depth of a tire is normally deemed worn out (and the plan rendered null and void) from 2/32 to 3/32 of an inch, depending on the manufacturer.
  • Tire reimbursement programs are exactly what they sound like.
  • There is an out-of-pocket expenditure to be considered.
  • The rates might range from $300 to $600 USD per person.

A direct-pay relationship, on the other hand, may exist between tire insurance carriers and repair facilities in collaboration with one another.

Typically, tire dealers and repair shops are the ones that sell these programs.

They can also be based on a percentage of the cost of the tire: typically 12 percent to 15 percent of the total cost of the tire.

Furthermore, many tire warranties are pro-rated, meaning that they only cover a portion of the cost of the tire dependent on how much it has been worn.

The process is rather straightforward, albeit there might be a substantial wait in receiving authorisation from the supplier.

This implies that you’ll either have to ‘approve’ the tire repair and hope that it is permitted for the entire amount, or you’ll have to drive about with your spare tire.

Others provide local coverage only.

Others just give service in the immediate vicinity of the selling location or at the selling facility itself.

Pro-rated warranties are calculated depending on the amount of wear and tear the tire has experienced.

You’ll be responsible for the balance.

For example, many plans allow for a limit of $30 to be spent on mounting and balancing one tire, and a maximum of $15 to be spent on repairing a single tire.

There are also variations in the costs of the tires and rims themselves, which may require the service client to make up the difference at the end of the day.

As a result of this, either the service center must drop its prices or you, as the service customer, must pay the difference—or find another repair facility.

Prices and repairs for rims: The replacement of rims is becoming less commonplace.

Repair will only be performed if the rim is unable to retain air.

Rather, they will send it out to be straightened and fixed by a third-party contractor.

In this scenario, though, they may still attempt to fix the wheel, especially if it is a costly sport wheel that has been damaged.

While some rim restoration is allowed, rims that have been extensively bent or broken will never be repaired in the same way again.

Alignment services are not covered by road hazard insurance or tire reimbursement schemes.

Positives of Road Hazard Protection: Some plans offer tire rotations, wheel balance, and countrywide coverage, among other things.

This sort of claim, on the other hand, will raise a lot of red lights with the insurer.

It will be tough for you to explain how a ‘road danger’ caused all four tires to blow out at the same time.

It does, however, only cover flaws in the craftsmanship.

This is one of the reasons why ‘road hazard’ protection is being promoted.

If there is a problem, it is generally discovered while the tire is being balanced.

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Any defects are usually discovered immediately away and the tire is replaced out as soon as possible.

In reality, the specialists are not in agreement with this assertion.

That phrase is particularly appropriate when it comes to road hazard warranties.

‘They make no logical sense,’ according to Harvard economist David Cutler.

Don’t insure something that you can’t afford to replace yourself.

This is a game, on the other hand, in which you have a 98 percent probability of losing.

Curbs: Another noteworthy point to mention is that curbs are responsible for a significant amount of tire damage.

High granite curbs with jagged edges sever tens of thousands of tires each year, according to estimates.

Apart from checking to see if the tires are keeping their air pressure, nobody ‘actually’ checks at tires anymore?

However, despite the potential risks associated with damaged tires, the damage very often does not manifest itself in any visible drivability concern.

According to the findings of the research: Those gushing about the advantages of a road hazard coverage are the real people in the insurance sector who stand to gain financially from the sale of the policy.

Even yet, based on the ‘possibility,’ the ‘chance,’ of destroying a tire that fulfills the repair/replacement required standards, the cost of four tires is $80 based on the ‘possibility,’ the ‘chance.’ Insurance for automobiles: If a rim and tire have sustained severe damage, it is quite likely that other issues have arisen as a result.

  • Another component that may have been affected is the hub bearings, front end components such as tie rods and spindles, ball joints, and a range of other components.
  • Road Hazard Warranties are provided at no cost.
  • Instead, in an effort to retain retailers, several tire distributors provide service centers FREE road hazard insurance as an incentive to do business with them.
  • Inquire as to whether the tire is ‘bundled’ with a road hazard protection insurance.
  • It’s definitely worth a shot.
  • Request that the dealer supply you with a gratis road-hazard insurance coverage (after all of the wheeling and dealing has been completed, of course), and do it shortly before you make your final decision on a new or used vehicle.

‘Can you tell me about the best road hazard policy?’ Money has been deposited into ‘your’ bank account.

Should you buy a road hazard warranty

Tire businesses are fond of including a road hazard warranty with each tire they sell. Because the tire comes with its own manufacturer’s guarantee, you may be wondering if it’s worth it to spend the money. Damage caused by road hazards, on the other hand, is not covered by the tire manufacturer. As a result, the extended tire warranty is essentially simply a road hazard warranty in disguise. It depends on where you purchase the extended tire warranty whether or not it covers the cost of repair or replacement.

  • What kind of tires are not repairable?
  • The Rubber Manufacturers Association has published a PDF of their tire repair processes, which you may view by clicking here.
  • When it comes to tire tread areas, the region between the inner and outer shoulders of the tire is defined as follows: A plug and a patch are the only appropriate repairs if the puncture is located in that part of the body.
  • Yes, it is possible that you have been using plugs for years without experiencing any problems.
  • Because as the tread wears, the plugs become less stable and are more prone to failure.
  • Yokahama’s Tire Repair Bulletin is available in PDF format by clicking here.
  • Because the puncture is outside of the tread region, this tire will not be able to be fixed.

With a road hazard warranty, it would be replaced at no cost to the customer.

It all depends on where you drive and how much danger you are willing to take.

It will cover the cost of repairs as well as the cost of a replacement tire if the tire cannot be fixed.

What about the guarantee provided by the tire manufacturer?

A bubble in the sidewall of a tire would be an example of a tire fault.

It is their opinion that a belt separation is caused by a collision, which they believe is an uninsured road danger that should be covered.

Maintaining correct air pressure and rotating tires on a regular basis are essential for achieving the anticipated tread life.

You’ll also be required to show receipts to demonstrate that you completed the rotations.

Even if you can demonstrate that you have properly maintained the tires, the tire warranty will only reimburse you for the portion of the remaining tread that was not accessible to you at the time of purchase. Rick Muscoplat’s 2015 Rick Muscoplat’s Rick Muscoplat posted a blog entry on

More: Should you buy a road hazard warranty?

r/MechanicAdvice – Is tire road hazard warranty worth it?

Level 1It’s a gamble, just like any other type of insurance. A punk child wielding a knife caused an unrepairable tire to blow out in my experience, and it was a punk youngster who caused the damage (not covered by road hazard). It’s a pro-rated warranty, and it only covers non-repairable damage, as the name implies. Overall, I don’t believe it is worthwhile. Pro tip: if you pay an additional $50 per year for zero deductible comprehensive vehicle insurance coverage, it will cover tire slashing and other items like windshields, among other things.

  • I had a nail in the sidewall of my tire, and it only cost me 15 dollars to replace it:) 1st grade Is there a flat repair service included in the road hazard plan?
  • I’m curious how many tires you’ve destroyed in the last five years.
  • If you’re willing to spend some time driving on remote gravel roads, it’s well worth it.
  • I’ve never had to have a tire replaced because of wear and tear.
  • level 1It actually depends on the situation.
  • Some people receive their money’s value, but the vast majority do not.
  • Since then, I’ve had maybe three flats repaired, which isn’t a huge problem.

At this point, I’m leaning toward not getting it.

level 1I don’t think it’s true.

There was a moment when I could have utilized it, but I couldn’t because I needed to buy a new tire.

I don’t offer any extended warranties on anything I sell at any time.

level 2Can you tell me what occurred on the two times when you utilized your warranty?

Tires were purchased online and installed by Walmart (cheap, dumb, whatever).

Tire and installation were provided for free; an additional $10 was spent on a new road hazard warrantee.

If you don’t drive much, you’re not likely to desire a warranty with a time restriction of only 3-4 years, for example.

level 1 What kind of vehicle is this?

About two months ago, a local tire store in San Diego, California, offered a discount for four remanufactured tires for a total of $120, which included installation.

tier 2It’s a high-performance tire in an uncommon size.

If you buy cheap tires that don’t last, you may save money in the short term, but if you have to replace them after 20k miles, you haven’t saved any money.

level 1The peace of mind alone is worth the price of admission. If you acquire it, there’s a good chance you’ll never use it. If you don’t obtain it this week, there’s a good chance you’ll need it next week.

Is it Worth Getting Tire Road Hazard Protection?

When you make a purchase after clicking on one of the affiliate links on this site, The Track Ahead may get a commission. Furthermore, all blogs are based on my own personal experiences. I will not be held liable for any actions you do as a result of anything you have read. Read on to find out more

Back-to-Back Flat Tires

Recently, I had the unpleasant experience of having two flat tires on my way to work on consecutive mornings, which was really inconvenient. The first morning, I was driving along the center lane when I hit a pothole. My tire pressure sensor immediately alerted me to the fact that my tires were underinflated. I came to a complete stop (fortunately on a fairly wide shoulder of the highway), and I was able to change my front right tire with the spare that I had brought with me. Due to irreparable sidewall damage, I had to take the car to a nearby America’s Tire, where they changed the tire for me.

  • I took care to stay in the right lane in order to avoid hitting the pothole.
  • I got out of the car as soon as I could.
  • I drove back to the same America’s Tire, this time with my spare tire, to get my tire replaced.
  • I was shown the thing that had been trapped within my tire by the America’s Tire technician after my tire had been changed by him.
  • I had a generally positive experience with America’s Tire on both days I dealt with them.
  • That is ideal if you ever have a tiny tire rupture within the tread region, which can be repaired by a tire shop with little difficulty.
  • So you may be on the hook for the total cost of the tire, which would have been around $150 for my front tire (on the first morning) and approximately $180 for my rear tire (on the second morning) (second morning).
  • Whenever I am given any form of warranty connected to automobiles, I almost always deny it out of hand.
  • So, why did I drive away from the store with two brand new tires on my car, despite the fact that I had never purchased a warranty in the past?

Now, before you start bragging about how much wiser my wife is than you are, let’s take a step back and consider whether or not it is worthwhile to invest in Tire Road Hazard Protection.

What Does Tire Road Hazard Protection Cover?

We are aware that tire warranties that are currently included with the purchase of a tire normally cover the tire under normal wear for a specific treadlife, uniformity of wear, and quality of the materials used in the construction of the tire. Nevertheless, what exactly does the purchase of an extra Tire Road Hazard Protection plan include? What the tire guarantee does not cover is any damage to the tire that is not caused by the tire manufacturer. This is the most common type of damage. That implies that if you drive over something in the road or strike a pothole, you will not be protected by the standard guarantee.

  • You may also take it to a company like America’s Tire and get it repaired without paying a dime.
  • You will be obliged to pay for a new tire, unless you want to drive about on your spare tire for the rest of your life (this is a joke, don’t do it).
  • As I mentioned at the outset of this essay, I had a similar experience with both flat tires on my vehicle.
  • This is a convenient feature since it gives you the freedom to have your tire replaced at any eligible shop of your choosing.
  • Here’s an example of an America’s Tire Tire Road Hazard Protection Certificate, which outlines the specifics of the company’s Road Hazard Protection Program.
  • Image courtesy of: At present moment, America’s Tire provides coverage for three years from the date of purchase or down to 3/32 inch of tread depth.
  • Also keep in mind that if you have your tire replaced under warranty, you may be required to purchase a separate warranty for the replacement tire that is fitted on your vehicle after the original warranty has expired.

Factors in Getting Flat Tires

In my opinion, it is critical to discuss this topic since it has the potential to have a significant impact on your choice to purchase a Tire Road Hazard Protection Warranty. I feel that there are three major criteria that influence the chance of obtaining a rental property. These are: How Far You Travel by Car: The reason for this is straightforward: the more you drive, the more probable it is that you may experience a flat tire. You have the following types of tires: When compared to a standard profile tire, lower profile tires feature a shorter sidewall and a broader tread pattern than the latter.

Due to the fact that a lower profile tire does not absorb the impact of hitting something like a pothole as effectively as a conventional tire, this is the case. Low Profile Tire (on the left) against Regular Profile Tire (on the right) (Right)

  • Driving in more industrial regions increases the likelihood of getting a puncture owing to items being dropped off by service vehicles, as seen in the image below. The screws and nails that fell off the backs of service cars when I used to work in an industrial section of the Dogpatch district in San Francisco often punctured my tires when I was in my early twenties.

Wrap-Up: Is It Worth It?

Tire Road Hazard Protection is obviously influenced by a number of elements, but I believe that the most important one is whether or not you have low-profile tires on your vehicle in the first place. A flat tire problem is nearly non-existent in my SUV driving experience, which I attribute to the vehicle’s design. Meanwhile, my experience with driving a car on low-profile tires has been one that at times is comparable to the regularity with which I change my oil. If you have the money to spend on additional protection and desire the peace of mind that comes with it, it goes without saying that you should take advantage of the opportunity.

The purchase of the Tire Road Hazard Protection for our car’s tires (which has low-profile tires) was a wise option made by my wife, who made an amazing choice.

However, because she paid a little more than $100 to cover all four tires, I was able to save more than $300 on these two flat tires alone.

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