BUY 3 GET 1 FREE

How do I know when I need new tires?

The most reliable indicators are tread depth below 4/32 of an inch (use the penny test — insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head pointing down; if you can see the top of his head, it's time for replacement), uneven or cupped wear patterns, visible cracking or dry rot in the sidewalls, bulges or bubbles in the sidewall, vibrations at highway speeds, or tires older than six years regardless of tread depth (rubber degrades with age even on low-mileage vehicles). Bring your vehicle in for a free tire inspection — we'll measure tread depth at multiple points and tell you honestly where you stand.

Should I get an alignment when I buy new tires?

Yes — and it's one of the most common mistakes drivers make. New tires on a vehicle that's out of alignment will wear unevenly, often significantly, within just a few thousand miles. You can ruin a brand new set of tires in 5,000 miles if the alignment is off. We strongly recommend a 4-wheel alignment any time you install new tires, unless a recent alignment check confirms the vehicle is still in spec. Think of it this way: an alignment costs a fraction of a tire, and skipping it can cost you an entire tire set.

How much does a wheel alignment cost?

A standard 4-wheel alignment typically runs $100–$150. Some shops charge separately for "thrust angle" adjustments or for alignments on trucks and vehicles with specialty suspension; we're upfront about whether your vehicle needs any additional work and give you a written estimate before we start. When you buy new tires from us, the alignment is often bundled at a discount — ask about current pricing when you call.

What does 4-wheel alignment mean versus a front-end alignment?

A front-end (two-wheel) alignment adjusts the front wheel angles only — suitable for some older vehicles with a solid rear axle. A 4-wheel alignment measures and adjusts all four wheels, checking that the rear wheels are properly aligned with the vehicle's centerline and that the front wheels are aligned to the rear. Almost all modern vehicles require a 4-wheel alignment to get a proper result. We perform 4-wheel alignments by default because it's what most vehicles on the road today need.

How often should I rotate my tires?

Every 5,000–7,500 miles — roughly every other oil change is a good rule of thumb. Rotation evens out wear between the front and rear tires (which wear at different rates because of steering, braking, and drivetrain loads) and can dramatically extend total tire life. Many tire warranties require documented rotations to stay in effect, so we keep records of rotation service for warranty purposes.

Do you offer tire deals or discounts?

Yes. Ernie's runs a standing buy-3-get-1-free promotion on select Hercules tires. Hercules is a solid mid-tier tire brand that offers strong value compared to premium brands, with good warranty coverage on most models. We also carry other brands and can source almost any tire on request — call (614) 235-8037 to discuss what's right for your vehicle and driving needs.

How do I read my tire size?

Tire sizes are printed on the sidewall in a format like 215/65R17. The first number (215) is the tire width in millimeters. The second number (65) is the sidewall aspect ratio — in this case, the sidewall is 65% of the width. The R indicates radial construction. The final number (17) is the wheel diameter in inches. When replacing tires, you generally match the original spec exactly, though alternate sizes and upgraded load ratings are sometimes options. We'll verify the correct size and load rating for your specific vehicle before ordering.

Can you repair a tire with a nail in it?

Usually, yes — with caveats. Tire repairs are safe and effective when the puncture is in the tread area (not the sidewall or shoulder), the hole is 1/4 inch or smaller, and the tire hasn't been driven on while flat. The correct repair is a combination plug-and-patch applied from the inside of the tire, not an external-only plug. Sidewall damage, larger holes, or tires that have been driven on while flat are not safely repairable and require replacement. We inspect before repairing — if it can't be repaired safely, we tell you honestly.

Do my tires need TPMS service when I get new tires?

Modern vehicles (2008+) use TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensors inside each wheel. The sensor's rubber valve stem and battery have a limited life — typically 7–10 years. When we install new tires, we often recommend new TPMS service kits (valve stem, seals, and grommet) and sometimes new sensors if the existing ones are aging. Using old, brittle TPMS components with new tires is a common cause of slow leaks shortly after tire installation.