I had a stack of old tires sitting in my garage after upgrading to a new set—and honestly, I had no clue where to sell used tires or if anyone would even want them. But after digging in, asking around, and testing a few methods myself, I realized there are actually plenty of smart ways to turn that rubber into cash. Whether you’re wondering where to sell your used tires for cash, who buys old tires in your area, or how to offload both wheels and tires together, I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact places I’ve tried, what worked, what flopped, and how you can make the most money while keeping it safe and simple. Let’s get started—you might be sitting on more value than you think.
Where to Sell Used Tires (For Cash) – My Real Experience & Best Places in 2025
If you’re staring at a pile of old tires and wondering where to sell used tires for cash, you’re not alone—I’ve been there too. After switching to a new set of wheels last year, I had four barely-used tires just collecting dust. I wasn’t sure who buys old tires or even where to sell my used tires without dealing with sketchy buyers or wasting my time.
Here’s what I learned fast: there are actually a lot of places—both online and local—that will buy used tires, and some even pay better than you’d expect. From selling directly to neighbors on Facebook Marketplace to negotiating with local tire shops, I tested just about every route. Some worked out great. Others? Not so much. But each step taught me something valuable.
The truth is, selling used tires in 2025 is way easier than it used to be. Whether you’re trying to figure out where can I sell used tires nearby or want to reach national buyers online, you have options—and I’ve tried them all. In this guide, I’ll break down the 7 best places to sell used tires, how to avoid common mistakes, and tips to help you make the most cash from that old rubber.
Each method below is based on real experiences, not just guesswork. So if you want to sell used wheels and tires without the stress, keep reading—you might be sitting on a mini goldmine in your garage.
Also Read: What Are Pneumatic Tires Revealed Now
Why I Started Selling My Used Tires – And Why You Should Too
A while back, I found myself staring at four old tires stacked in the corner of my garage. They weren’t damaged. They weren’t even that worn out. I’d just upgraded to a new set of all-terrains, and suddenly, these perfectly usable tires were taking up space. I didn’t want to throw them away, but I had no clue where to sell used tires, or even if anyone would want them.
What surprised me was how fast someone replied when I posted them online. Within two days, I’d made $120 cash—no hassle, no shipping, just a quick pickup in my driveway. That one sale opened my eyes. There’s actually a strong demand for used tires, especially if they still have good tread. If you’re asking yourself “where to sell my used tires”, chances are someone nearby is already looking.
Many people sell their old tires for simple reasons. Maybe you changed sizes or got a full set with your new wheels. Maybe your lease ended and you put the stock tires back on. Whatever the reason, if they’re still safe and usable, you can sell used tires for cash—and avoid letting them rot away in the backyard.
Here’s something that hit me hard: millions of tires end up in landfills every year in the U.S. alone. That rubber takes decades to break down. So every time you find who buys old tires and passes yours along, you’re not just making money—you’re helping the planet. Think of it as getting paid to do the right thing.
So, if your tires are just sitting there, don’t let them waste away. There’s real value in used rubber, and once you know where to sell used wheels and tires, it’s honestly one of the easiest flips you can do. A little time and effort can turn old tread into easy cash—while keeping the environment a little cleaner, too.
How to Know If Your Used Tires Are Sellable
If you’re asking yourself “Are my used tires even worth anything?”—you’re not alone. I had the same question when I looked at the set gathering dust in my garage. The good news? You can sell used tires, but only if they meet a few basic conditions. And don’t worry—it’s easier to check than you might think.
Check Tread Depth (Penny Test or Ruler)
The first thing buyers care about is how much tread is left. Tires with good tread grip better and last longer, which means more value. Here’s a quick way to check:
- Grab a penny.
- Insert it into the tire’s groove with Lincoln’s head upside down.
- If you can see all of his head, the tread is below 2/32” and it’s not legally sellable in many states.
You can also use a ruler or tread depth gauge if you want to be precise. Generally, tires with at least 5/32″ to 6/32″ will attract serious buyers. Anything less might only be good for recycling.
Short answer: If the tread is too low (below 2/32″), you probably shouldn’t sell the tire—it’s better to recycle it.
Look for Damage, Dry Rot, or Plugs
Tread isn’t the only thing that matters. Buyers also want to know your tires are safe. Carefully inspect each tire for:
- Cracks on the sidewall (aka dry rot)
- Large punctures or bulges
- Old patches or plug repairs
- Uneven wear or visible cords
A few small plugs? Maybe okay if done right. But sidewall damage or dry rot is a dealbreaker. I once tried selling a tire that had great tread, but the sidewall had small splits. No one touched it—and rightly so. Safety matters.
Short answer: If there are deep cracks, sidewall bubbles, or sketchy repairs, it’s not worth selling—no one wants to risk a blowout.
Verify the Tire’s Age (DOT Code)
Most buyers want tires that are less than 6 years old, and many won’t even consider anything over 8 years. That’s because rubber degrades with time—even if the tread looks perfect.
To check the age:
- Look for the DOT code on the sidewall.
- The last four digits show the week and year the tire was made.
- Example: 4220 means the tire was made in the 42nd week of 2020.
If your tire is pushing 6–10 years old, it might still sell—but you’ll likely need to price it lower and be upfront about the age.
Short answer: Tires older than 6–8 years are harder to sell, even with good tread—check the DOT code before listing.
Make It Shine: Clean Tires Sell Better
This might sound silly, but appearance matters—especially in online listings. A tire that looks clean, dust-free, and shiny will get more attention than one that looks like it’s been sitting behind a shed since 2012.
I always wipe down the tread, clean the sidewalls, and snap photos in good lighting. It makes a difference. I once listed two sets of tires: one cleaned, one not. Guess which set sold first (and faster)? The clean ones—within hours.
Short answer: A clean tire looks newer and fetches more interest. Spend five minutes cleaning before you list—it’s worth it.
Used Tires vs. Used Wheels: What’s the Difference?
A lot of people get this mixed up: tires are the rubber, wheels (aka rims) are the metal part. If you’ve got both, you might be sitting on even more cash.
Used wheels and tires together tend to sell faster because they’re plug-and-play—especially if they’re already balanced and hold air. I’ve sold full sets for double what the tires alone would’ve fetched.
If your tires are mounted on decent-looking rims (even stock ones), list them as a full set. Mention bolt pattern, size, and whether TPMS sensors are included. That combo attracts car enthusiasts and budget-minded buyers who want convenience.
Short answer: Selling tires with wheels adds value and makes the sale easier—bundle them when you can.
Bottom line: If your tires have decent tread, no major damage, and aren’t too old, there’s a good chance someone’s willing to pay for them. Before you start figuring out where to sell used tires, take 10 minutes to inspect what you’ve got. A clean, well-photographed set of tires—especially with wheels—can turn into fast, easy cash.
Also Read: Remote Control Car Tyre: Limited Offer!
Where to Sell Used Tires for Cash – Top 7 Proven Options
Wondering where to sell used tires for cash without the runaround? I’ve tried just about every method out there—from local meetups to niche websites. Some worked instantly. Others were a waste of time. Below are the 7 best places I’ve personally tested to sell used wheels and tires in 2025—ranked by ease, speed, and how much cash they brought in.
1. Facebook Marketplace
If you want to sell fast and locally, this is the best place to start. I’ve sold full sets within a day—sometimes within hours. Most buyers on Facebook are nearby, so you avoid shipping, and it’s free to list.
The key is writing a clear title (e.g., “Set of 4 Michelin 225/60R17 Tires – 6/32” Tread – $180 OBO”) and adding good photos. Always meet in a public place or your driveway during the day.
Short answer: Facebook Marketplace is the easiest way to sell used tires locally for cash—just post clean photos, price fairly, and respond quickly.
2. Craigslist
Craigslist still works in many cities. It attracts buyers looking for deals and people who don’t use social media. I’ve had mixed results, but when it works, it works well. One guy drove an hour to grab a full set I’d listed for $150.
Just be cautious—don’t share personal info, and watch out for scammers who want to “send a check.” Stick to cash in person.
Short answer: Craigslist can be hit or miss, but it’s free, local, and works well if you’re direct and safe about it.
3. eBay
If you have rare, performance, or oversized tires, eBay might be your best option. I once sold a set of off-road tires to a buyer three states away—something I’d never manage locally.
eBay is great for reaching national buyers, but there’s more work involved. You’ll need to ship (which is heavy and costly), factor in fees, and write a clear listing with detailed specs.
Short answer: eBay is perfect for specialty tires and national reach—but be ready to ship and pay fees.
4. Local Tire Shops (New & Used)
You’d be surprised how many local tire shops will buy your used set—especially if the tread is still good. I took four lightly used Yokohamas to a nearby shop and walked out with $160 cash on the spot.
Call ahead and ask if they buy take-offs. Be ready to negotiate a little, but many shops will pay more than you’d expect to resell them or use for trade-ins.
Short answer: Local tire shops often buy used tires for resale—just call ahead and ask what they’re paying.
5. Used Tire Dealers or Retread Facilities
There are businesses that specialize in used tires or retreading, especially for commercial vehicles. These places are more selective but often buy in bulk or pay cash for matching sets with good tread.
You’ll usually find them with a quick Google Maps search like “used tire buyers near me” or “retread tire dealers.” Be ready to show tread depth and DOT codes.
Short answer: Used tire dealers and retreaders buy in bulk—great if you’re selling multiple tires or a clean set.
6. SellMyTires.com & Other Niche Marketplaces
Yes, it’s a real site—and it works. SellMyTires.com is a niche platform built just for selling used wheels and tires. It doesn’t have the traffic of Facebook or Craigslist, but buyers here are more serious.
List your tire brand, tread depth, DOT date, and whether wheels are included. It’s also a great place to list performance or snow tires in the off-season.
Short answer: Tire-specific marketplaces attract buyers who know what they want—ideal for quality sets or specialty tires.
7. Next door App & Community Boards
Next door works surprisingly well for used tires, especially in suburban areas. I once listed a set of snow tires and had a neighbor message me within 15 minutes. It feels more personal, and you know you’re selling to someone nearby.
You can also try physical community boards—some libraries, laundromats, or grocery stores still have them.
Short answer: Next door is great for hyperlocal buyers—fast, friendly, and usually hassle-free.
No matter where you decide to sell, the real key is knowing your tire’s condition and writing a clear, honest listing. A clean set of tires, fairly priced and accurately described, will almost always find a buyer. And if you’re ever unsure, start local—you’ll save time, avoid shipping, and often get paid the same day.
Let’s move on and talk about how to squeeze the most money out of every sale—because a little extra effort can go a long way.
Pro Tips to Maximize What You Earn
Written in a warm, friendly tone—like advice from someone who’s already sold used tires and wants you to win too. The section follows your AEO goals, naturally includes “where to sell used tires” and related phrases, and keeps readability high throughout.
So, you’ve figured out where to sell used tires—but how do you make sure you’re not leaving money on the table? After selling sets in every way possible (from my garage to local shops and even on eBay), I’ve learned that presentation matters just as much as condition. Here’s exactly what I do to get the most cash every time I list a used tire set.
Clean & Shine Before Listing
It might sound obvious, but I can’t tell you how many listings I see with dirty, dusty tires tossed on the grass. Clean them! Buyers want something that looks well cared for, even if it’s used.
I use a wet rag and some all-purpose cleaner to wipe the tread and sidewalls. If I’m feeling fancy, I hit them with a bit of tire shine too. This makes the photos pop—and yes, people will pay more for something that looks newer.
Short answer: Clean tires sell faster and for more money—shine them up before snapping any photos.
Take Quality Photos (From All Angles)
Photos sell tires. Period. I take shots from multiple angles: the full set, the tread close-up, the sidewall (to show brand and DOT), and one showing any flaws.
Use daylight if possible. Lay the tires flat or stand them in a neat row against a clean background—like your driveway or garage wall. I once sold a full set in less than an hour just because my pics were clear and showed every detail.
Short answer: Good photos build trust and help your listing stand out—think clear, clean, and honest.
Include Key Details in the Listing
When people ask, “Where can I sell used tires?”, they often forget the second part—how to list them. I’ve learned to include the info buyers care about right up front, like:
- Brand and model
- Size (e.g., 225/60R17)
- Remaining tread (I estimate percentage or use depth)
- DOT date (to show age)
- Whether wheels are included
- Any patches or flaws
Also, include your location and whether you offer delivery—it makes the listing easier to act on.
Short answer: The more clear, honest info you include, the fewer questions you’ll get—and the faster it’ll sell.
Bundle Full Sets for Better Deals
Selling one tire is hard. Selling two is easier. Selling four together? That’s the jackpot.
Buyers love convenience, and sets of four are the easiest to move—especially if they’re from the same vehicle. I’ve gotten 20–30% more by listing full sets instead of piecing them out.
Short answer: Sell full sets when you can—they move faster and bring in more money.
Offer Optional Delivery (If Safe & Local)
This one surprised me. When I started offering local delivery (within 5–10 miles), my listings started moving faster—and buyers were more flexible on price.
Not everyone has a truck or SUV to pick up tires. Offering to drop them off gives you an edge, especially on platforms like Facebook or Next door. Just make sure it’s safe and worth your time.
Short answer: Offering local delivery can boost your chances of selling and help you stand out from the crowd.
Taking just a few extra steps—like cleaning the tires, writing a clear listing, and snapping good photos—can turn an average sale into a great one. When you’re figuring out where to sell used tires for cash, remember: the sale starts with how you present them. The better the listing, the better the payout.
Ready to sell with confidence? Let’s make sure you stay on the right side of the law and protect yourself in the next section.
Legal and Safety Considerations When Selling Used Tires
Before you post your tires for sale, there’s one thing that can sneak up on you if you’re not careful: legal and safety rules. I learned the hard way that it’s not just about tread depth or how much someone will pay—you also need to make sure you’re not accidentally selling something unsafe or even illegal.
Let’s walk through what you need to know so you stay on the right side of the law and avoid any surprises.
Know the Minimum Legal Tread Depth in Your State
Most states follow the 2/32″ tread depth rule—that’s the legal minimum allowed for passenger vehicles. If a tire is worn below that, it’s considered unsafe and illegal to sell for road use. A quick way to check is the penny trick: insert a penny into the groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see all of his head, it’s time to toss it, not sell it.
Short answer: Tires with less than 2/32″ of tread are illegal to sell for road use—check with a penny before listing.
Some states may even have stricter rules or require more tread on wet-weather tires, so it’s worth Googling your local laws or checking your DMV website.
Avoid Selling Recalled Tires – It’s Easy to Check
This one’s important, and a lot of people miss it. If a tire was recalled by the manufacturer (even years ago), you legally cannot sell it. And even if you didn’t know, you could still be liable.
Luckily, there’s a simple fix: just visit the NHTSA recall lookup. Enter the DOT code from the tire sidewall, and it’ll tell you if there’s an active recall.
Short answer: Use the tire’s DOT code to check for recalls before selling—it’s quick, free, and protects both you and the buyer.
Always Write a Basic Bill of Sale (Even for Cash Deals)
Whether you’re selling on Facebook or meeting someone from Craigslist, it’s smart to write a quick bill of sale. You don’t need a lawyer—just write down:
- Buyer and seller’s names
- Date of sale
- Tire size and brand
- Price
- Statement like: “Sold as-is with no warranty”
Sign it and snap a pic of the paper or exchange emails with it attached. That little step can save you a lot of headaches if something goes sideways.
Short answer: A simple “as-is” bill of sale can protect you from any claims after the sale—always write one, even for local pickups.
Be Honest About Any Damage or Repairs
This is where trust really matters. If a tire has a plug or patch, say so. If there’s a slow leak, be upfront. Don’t worry—many buyers still go for repaired tires, especially if they’re priced right. But hiding issues can backfire fast.
You don’t want someone messaging you two days later threatening to “report you” because a patch failed.
Short answer: Disclose all damage honestly—buyers appreciate it, and it protects your reputation (and wallet).
The bottom line? Selling used tires can be smooth and profitable, but only if you play it smart. Know your tread limits, check for recalls, put it in writing, and be honest. Doing the right thing protects you, builds trust, and keeps buyers safe on the road.
Next up, we’ll cover what to do if your tires aren’t worth selling—but might still have life left as something else.
When Selling Isn’t an Option: Recycling and Repurposing Tires
Sometimes, no matter how clean or gently used your tires look, they just won’t sell. Maybe they’re too old, too worn, or you’ve tried every marketplace and nobody’s biting. Don’t stress—it happens. I’ve had a few sets that just didn’t move. But that doesn’t mean they have to end up in a landfill.
Short answer: If your used tires won’t sell, you can still recycle or repurpose them—often for free, and sometimes for cash.
Find a Local Tire Recycling Center Near You
Most towns or counties in the U.S. have at least one facility that accepts scrap tires. A quick search for “tire recycling near me” usually brings up options like municipal drop-off sites, tire shops, or even auto junk yards that take tires for a small fee—or sometimes, for free.
Some states even have tire amnesty days where you can drop off a few tires with no charge. I once offloaded six bald tires this way at my county’s annual cleanup event.
Short answer: Look for local recycling centers or tire collection events—many accept tires free or at low cost.
What Actually Happens to Recycled Tires?
If you’re wondering whether recycling really makes a difference—it does. Old tires get shredded and reused in all sorts of clever ways. Some become rubber mulch for gardens and playgrounds. Others are turned into asphalt for roads, or fuel for industrial boilers. It’s like giving your tires a second life—without the risk of someone driving on unsafe rubber.
Knowing that your old set might help pave a road or keep a kid from skinning their knee? That’s a pretty satisfying end.
Short answer: Recycled tires get turned into useful things like mulch, fuel, or even new roads—so they don’t go to waste.
Repurposing Tires at Home (Yes, Really)
If you’re the DIY type (or just like a cool backyard project), old tires can be surprisingly useful around the house. I’ve seen people turn them into garden planters, outdoor swings, raised beds, and even tire tables. A friend of mine painted two old tires and used them as planters on their porch—and they looked awesome.
It might sound a little out there, but trust me: if you’ve got a creative streak, a tire isn’t just trash—it’s a blank canvas.
Short answer: Old tires can be upcycled into planters, swings, or furniture—great for creative or eco-conscious folks.
So if selling your used tires isn’t working out, don’t toss them by the curb. Whether you recycle them through a local center or repurpose them in your own yard, you’re still keeping rubber out of landfills—and that matters. Plus, you’ll feel better knowing those tires are doing something useful, even after the road trip’s over.
Real Buyer Questions I Always Get – And How I Answer Them
When you start listing used tires online, expect your inbox to light up with a bunch of curious buyers. Some are serious, some are just tire-kickers (pun intended), but almost all of them ask the same handful of questions. Over the years, I’ve come up with answers that are clear, honest, and reassuring—because a confident buyer is way more likely to seal the deal.
Short answer: Clear, honest answers to common buyer questions help build trust and make your tires sell faster.
“Why are you selling these tires?”
This one always comes first. Buyers want to know if there’s something wrong with the tires, or if you’re just unloading junk. I keep it simple and honest. I usually say, “I upgraded to new wheels and these were still in great shape, so I figured someone else could use them.”
Short answer: Let buyers know you upgraded or no longer need them—keep it casual but honest.
“Are they patched or damaged?”
They’re just being cautious—and rightly so. I always double-check before posting, and if a tire has ever been repaired, I call it out in the listing. If they ask, I say something like: “One tire had a small nail puncture that was professionally patched and has held fine. The others are damage-free.”
Short answer: If the tire was patched, disclose it. Buyers appreciate transparency.
“Can you deliver?”
This one depends on where they are and what I’m selling. If they’re close and it’s a full set, I might offer to drop them off. Sometimes, that simple gesture seals the deal quicker than any price drop. I’ll say, “I can deliver within 5 miles if that helps. Just let me know what works.”
Short answer: Offering local delivery—even a few miles—can give you a big edge over other sellers.
“What’s the DOT code?”
This tells them the tire’s age, which is a safety concern. I always check the sidewall before listing and include the DOT code in my ad. If they still ask, I send a clear close-up photo. I might say, “Manufactured in week 32 of 2021—still plenty of life left.”
Short answer: Always include the DOT code or send a photo—it helps buyers trust you more.
“Are these winter, all-season, or summer tires?”
Some buyers don’t know just by looking at the tread, so I make this super clear in my listings. I’ll write something like: “These are Goodyear Assurance all-season tires—great year-round performance.” If someone still asks, I repeat the type and mention how they’ve performed for me.
Short answer: Always label the tire type clearly—many buyers shop by season and driving need.
Answering these questions honestly and quickly not only builds trust—it speeds up the sale. You don’t have to be a tire expert; just speak from experience. Think of it like selling to a neighbor—you’d be upfront with them, right? Do the same here. It goes a long way.
FAQs – Quick Answers to Common Search Questions
Q1: Where can I sell used tires for the most cash?
You can sell used tires for the most cash on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local tire shops. Clean, matching sets often bring top dollar.
Q2: Who buys old tires near me?
Old tires are bought by used tire shops, auto repair centers, retread facilities, and people on local apps like Nextdoor and OfferUp.
Q3: Can I sell tires that are more than 6 years old?
Yes, but most buyers want tires under 6 years old. Check the DOT code. Older tires may sell for less or only be used for trailers or off-road use.
Q4: What’s the best website to sell used wheels and tires?
The best websites are eBay for rare or performance tires, and SellMyTires.com for buyers looking specifically for wheels and tires.
Q5: How much should I expect to get per used tire?
You can expect $25–$60 per used tire if the tread is good and the tire is less than 5 years old. Premium brands may sell for more.
Q6: Where can I sell my used tires for cash locally?
Try local tire shops, repair garages, or post on Craigslist and Facebook. These places pay cash fast and don’t require shipping.
Q7: What makes a used tire worth selling?
Tires with even tread, no cracks, and less than 6 years of age are worth selling. Clean them up and post clear photos to get buyers.
Q8: Can I sell just one used tire or do I need a full set?
Yes, single tires do sell. However, full sets usually sell faster and for more money since buyers prefer matching sets.
Q9: Is it legal to sell used tires in all states?
Yes, but most states require at least 2/32″ tread depth. Always check your state’s rules and disclose tire age and condition.
Q10: What info should I include in my listing?
Add brand, size, tread depth, DOT code, tire type (all-season, etc.), and clear photos. This helps build trust and speeds up your sale.
Final Thoughts – Don’t Let Those Tires Sit There
If there’s one thing I’ve learned after selling used tires over the years, it’s this: the longer they sit, the less they’re worth. I used to stack mine in the garage “just in case,” but they ended up collecting dust, spiderwebs, and eventually dry rot. One day I realized I was literally sitting on money—and not a small amount, either.
Used tires don’t just take up space—they lose value fast. Rubber breaks down. Tread wears even from sitting. And if you wait too long, what could’ve sold for $40 might only be worth $5—or nothing at all.
So here’s my friendly nudge: Don’t overthink it. If the tires are in good shape, snap some photos. Clean them up a little. Post a quick ad on Facebook or check with your local shop. You’d be surprised how fast they can go.
Remember, what feels like clutter to you might be the exact match someone else is desperately looking for. I’ve had people message me saying, “I’ve been searching everywhere for this size!” It feels great knowing your old tires are going to help someone, not just end up in a landfill.
This isn’t just about getting cash—though that’s definitely a bonus. It’s about making use of what you’ve got, freeing up space, and doing something practical. So if you’re wondering where to sell used tires, the answer is: Start now, with what you already have.
Your tires aren’t junk. They’re just waiting for the right buyer. And that buyer might be scrolling their feed right now.