Cheap Tyres vs Quality Tyres: What’s Worth Your Money?

We’ve all been there, scrolling through tyre deals thinking, “Do I really need the fancy ones, or will these cheap ones do the trick?” It’s tempting to go for the lowest price, especially when it looks like rubber is rubber… right?

But not all tyres are created equal. Whether you're driving the kids to school or heading off-road on the weekend, your tyres are the only part of the car touching the road. So let’s break down what you’re actually getting (or not getting) when you choose cheap tyres over quality ones and how to tell what’s worth your money.

What Do We Mean By “Cheap” vs “Quality” Tyres?

Let’s be clear: cheap doesn’t always mean bad, and expensive doesn’t always mean perfect. But there’s a big difference between a budget-friendly brand you trust and a set of no-name tyres with barely any safety ratings.

Cheap tyres often come from lesser-known manufacturers, may lack proper testing certifications, and usually don’t offer much in the way of performance, comfort, or longevity.

Quality tyres are made by well-established brands (like Bridgestone, Michelin, Pirelli, Yokohama, and Continental) that have invested millions into R&D, tread pattern design, braking efficiency, and fuel-saving features.

Why Tyre Quality Matters (It’s Not Just Marketing)

You can absolutely see and feel the difference when you drive on a good set of tyres. But more importantly, the tyre safety benefits are massive. Here's what you get with quality tyres:

• Shorter braking distances – crucial in wet or emergency situations
• Improved grip and traction, especially in the rain
• Better fuel economy, thanks to lower rolling resistance
• Longer tyre lifespan, often lasting 20,000–40,000km more than budget alternatives
• Less road noise and a smoother ride overall

On the flip side, cheap tyres often lack the grip, stability, and consistency you need, especially when you’re cornering, towing, or driving at higher speeds.

The Hidden Cost of Cheap Tyres

Sure, that set of tyres for $400 might look like a steal… but it might end up costing you more in the long run.

Let’s break it down:

• Tyre lifespan is generally much shorter meaning you'll be replacing them sooner (sometimes in under 20,000km).
• They often wear unevenly or too quickly, which can affect your wheel alignment and suspension health.
• Poor wet-weather performance increases your risk on the road, especially in an emergency stop.
• Cheap tyres may even void certain warranty conditions if your vehicle requires specific ratings (especially for SUVs, utes, or performance cars).

Bottom line? Sometimes the most expensive option… is buying twice.

What to Look For When Choosing Tyres

Whether you're after the best tyres for your ute, your family SUV, or a zippy hatchback, here are some things to keep in mind:

✅ 1. Check the Treadwear & Ratings

Look for the treadwear grade (higher = longer lifespan), traction rating (A is best), and temperature resistance. These should be printed right on the sidewall.

✅ 2. Look for Certification

Make sure they’re ADR compliant (Australian Design Rules) and meet the standards for use on local roads.

✅ 3. Consider Your Driving Style

• Do you mostly drive in the city? Choose low-rolling-resistance tyres to save fuel.
• Got a ute or 4WD? You’ll need all-terrain tyres or something tougher with stronger sidewalls.
• Long-distance driver? Go for comfort, fuel economy, and tyre noise ratings.

✅ 4. Don’t Skimp on Load & Speed Rating

These numbers matter, especially for larger vehicles. Always check your owner’s manual or door sticker for the recommended specs.

But I’m on a Budget… Are There Any Good Cheap Tyres?

Yes! There are some budget tyre brands that still offer great value without compromising your safety. Think of them as the “Toyota Corollas” of tyres, nothing flashy, but ultra-reliable.

Brands like Kumho, Hankook, Toyo, GT Radial, and Nexen are often a good middle ground. They offer quality manufacturing and decent tread life, at a fraction of the cost of top-tier brands.

And at Davey Motor Group, we’re all about finding that sweet spot where price, performance, and safety meet.

Are Premium Tyres Worth It?

If you:

• Drive often or long distances
• Tow trailers, boats, or caravans
• Drive a performance car or turbo diesel ute
• Regularly drive in wet or unpredictable conditions

…then yes, premium tyres are 100% worth the investment. You’ll notice better handling, quieter rides, and more peace of mind in every drive.

Even if you don’t push your vehicle to the limit, that extra lifespan and fuel savings can add up fast.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Cheap Tyres?

It depends. If you just need a quick fix on a tight budget, and you’re not doing big kilometres or dangerous driving, then cheap tyres can get you by. Just make sure they meet basic safety standards and aren’t second-hand or damaged.

But if you can stretch your budget a little further, quality tyres are one of the best investments you can make for your car and your safety. Looking for Tyres near me but not sure what you need? Give us a call, shoot us a message, or drop in for a chat. We'll help you choose tyres that are safe, affordable and built to last.