Originally Posted by zrxkawboy
Used tires just aren't typically worth a lot. For example, at the tire shop I usually use, mounting and balancing is included in the price of new tires. If I were to bring in used tires for them to m&b for me, they would charge $20 each. Also, on the topic of treadwear, I've heard people say that since the tire they're selling has half its tread left, they should be able to get close to half of new cost. Well, maybe if the buyer wants to run it down to zero tread! Also, tire performance drops off as tread wears, so you're not getting as much for your money in the second half of the tire's life.
^This.
I see used tires priced too high all the time. The ones that are priced low seem to sell, the rest just sit around. People always say things like half tread left. But normally on a new tire, that's 10/32's of thread and it's worn out at the 2-3/32's mark. Not good for snow under 5/32 and not that great for rain under 4/32s. So at 5/32's, they're already about 75% worn out, not 50%. Then once you factor in mounting and balancing plus no road hazard warranty, they can cost more per mile left than new tires.
The best deals on used tires seem to be at used tire stores, at least they can throw in mounting and balancing in the price per tire but you still don't get anything like a road hazard, balancing or mounting at that price. Probably why I've given up and just get new tires although I look to see if there's a good deal once in a while on a set that might have 8/32's or more once in a while.