Had a on flat the Bonneville yesterday. The Michelins on the Bonneville had over 80k miles on them, they were very tired and it was over 104 degrees outside, not good weather for old tires with little tread left.

Decided to get qty 4 new Michelins. Checked TireRack, COSTCO and Discount Tire. Discount Tire had the best price, had the tires in stock, and allowed me to complete the transaction, including setting a appointment on-line. The only thing they didn't allow was payment on-line. I declined the hazard warranty.

Arrived at Discount Tire 15 minutes early and met with the Service Writer. He didn't seem to care I did the transaction on line, and wanted me to look at other tires. I did not bite. He then went on his computer and told me to sign the credit card machine (electronic). I glanced down and it showed $100 more than than what I agreed to on-line. I balked.

The Service Writer first said it was $100 more because I had two rebates, totaling $100. I said bull crap. He then said, it was the hazard warranty I had agreed to. I said bull crap again. The Service Writer had to right the transaction up again, low and behold it matched the transaction price I did agreed to on line.

While the tires were being mounted, I looked at both rebate forms. Both were expired forms. I went to the desk, told the Service Writer and they produced current rebate forms.

I like the tires and the price at Discount Tire I like that they only sell tires, no other services. I like you can view the tire inventory at each store on-line.

I do not like that, apparently, the Service Writers have a motivation to charge more than agreed to. What happened to me didn't seem like an oversight or a mistake. I should note that was the second time I had received a expired rebate form from Discount Tire. I was unable to get the rebate the first time because of the expired form.

It sounds like the service writer needs to learn a few things. How did the guys treat the car?

Did a Google on discount tire, my experience with the service writer appears typical. Numerous comments on the web of expired rebate forms, charging more than quoted, etc.

The guys did a good job on the tires. I mentioned the rims don't seal well (chrome OEM Bonny rims) and they ground the rims at the bead before mounting the tires. While on the lift I asked if I could check the ball joints. The let me do it, but the mechanics seemed to have no idea what I was doing ( 12 to 6).

I think if you know your stuff and have a hawk eye, you can get a very good deal at Discount Tire. If you are not vigilant- watch out.... go to a no risk retailer like COSTCO.

Never had much dealing with tire shops. I hate em. They are not interested in your safety, or the safety of your car. They are only interested in selling the most expensive tires to the schmuck with the most money and throw add-on'* that they probably won't honor 2 weeks later. Do it yourself and just have a local shop balance your tires.

I generally buy from Discount or Belle Tire and have not had any issues. Like anything else, you have to be vigilant to make sure everything is done properly. I feel sorry for the people who don't know what questions to ask or what to look for.