Your car’s tires and wheels face a lot of damage. Hazards like nails, glass, potholes, and curbs can harm them. This might leave your car unusable. Repairs can be costly. So, getting insurance for your tires and wheels is smart. Regular auto insurance and roadside assistance usually don’t cover these parts. Moreover, the deductibles for comprehensive policies are often higher than tire replacement costs. Tire and wheel insurance, however, can cover repairs and replacements. It may also offer roadside assistance, reimbursement for trip interruptions, and alternative transportation if your car is out of service.
How Much Does Tire and Wheel Insurance Cost?
Tire and wheel insurance costs depend on your location, vehicle, and coverage. Typically, it ranges from $60 to $90 yearly for full tire coverage. For replacements, expect to pay $10 to $30 per tire.
Most plans limit coverage by time, mileage, or cost. For instance, a policy might cover up to $5,000 in repairs, 60,000 miles, or last three years. It’s crucial to know what your plan covers, any deductibles, and exclusions. Common exclusions include wheel replacements, vehicle alignments, and curb damage.
Where Can I Buy Tire and Wheel Insurance?
When buying a car, dealerships often offer tire and wheel insurance. This happens whether you order a car or buy one on the spot. You can also get this coverage from roadside-assistance providers like AAA, your auto insurance company, or at local tire shops when installing new tires.
10 Best Tire and Wheel Insurance
| Insurance Provider | Coverage Highlights | Average Cost | Deductible | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA | Roadside assistance, tire repair/replacement, towing | $60–$90/year | None to Low | Nationwide |
| Allstate | Tire and wheel repair/replacement, trip interruption, towing | $20–$40/month | Varies | Nationwide |
| Geico | Tire and wheel coverage through mechanical breakdown insurance | $30–$50/year | $50–$100 | Nationwide |
| Progressive | Tire damage, roadside assistance, emergency services | $12–$40/month | $50 | Nationwide |
| Zurich | Tire and wheel coverage for damage due to road hazards | $70–$100/year | $0 | Dealership or service shops |
| Safe-Guard | Covers tire/wheel repair and replacement, curb damage, cosmetic damage | $300–$500 (one-time fee) | Varies | Dealership only |
| Liberty Mutual | Tire repair/replacement, roadside assistance, emergency services | $10–$30/month | Varies | Nationwide |
| Tire Rack Road Hazard | Road hazard tire protection plan for 2 years | $20–$30 per tire | $0 | Nationwide (online) |
| Protect My Car | Tire and wheel damage, roadside assistance, trip interruption | $20–$30/month | Varies | Nationwide |
| USAA | Covers tire and wheel repair, roadside assistance | $60–$90/year | Varies | Members Only (Nationwide) |
Is Tire and Wheel Insurance Worth the Cost?
Deciding to buy tire and wheel insurance depends on your situation and vehicle use. If you often drive on rough, pothole-filled roads, insurance could save you money. However, if you live near well-maintained roads with few hazards, the risk of damage is low. In this case, insurance might not be worth it.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be taken as financial or legal advice. We aim for accuracy but don’t guarantee complete reliability regarding tire insurance and protection plans. It’s wise to do your own research and consult a professional before making tire insurance decisions. Prices, coverage, and terms vary by provider and can change.