Buy Tires on Sale in South Carolina: But Not Until You’ve Read This Guide!
Unitedtires
Driving and buying tires in South Carolina
Here in South Carolina, the locals love pig picken, Frogmore stew, or Lowcountry boil depending on who you’re talking to. Golf courses and beaches come at a premium in this southern gem nicknamed the Palmetto State. If you’re not hitting the linx over the weekend then take a cruise down the coast. Start at Myrtle Beach and make your way through Charleston's Folly beach. Pick up some oysters on your way before you check out the luxurious Hilton Head Island in the south. Road tripping through the midlands and upstate in the fall is an especially lovely treat that will make you “happier than a pig in mud”, as the South Carolinians say.
The United Tires team is dedicated to providing you with the most useful information about South Carolina’s climate, roads, and destinations. We work to provide you with the treads you need at a price that won’t put a flat in your wallet. We pride ourselves on providing the best selection for our customers who will be able to choose from 60,000+ new or used tires. What’s even better? We offer a FREE FedEx Home Delivery Service to any location in the state. Utires.com will fill your tires while fulfilling your needs by saving you time. We’re your 24-hour tire shop offering our customers service anywhere in South Carolina.
The most popular cars and tires in South Carolina
The most popular car model
Ford F Series
*Source: wspa.com
The most popular color of the car
White
*Source: iseecars.com
The most popular tire model
Bridgestone Ecopia H/L 422 Plus
*Source: utires.com sales department
The average budget to buy 2 used tires
$136.78
*Source: utires.com sales department
South Carolina tire shops and key auto facilities
Hilton Head Island Motoring Festival & Concours d'Elegance
Hilton Head Island Motoring Festival & Concours d'Elegance
1 Cardinal Rd #16, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
1 Cardinal Rd #16, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
32.222128
-80.7065827
Walmart Auto Care Centre
Walmart Auto Care Centre
9880 Dorchester Rd, Summerville, SC 29485
9880 Dorchester Rd, Summerville, SC 29485
32.950211
-80.1574323
Walmart Auto Care Centre
Walmart Auto Care Centre
1451 Woodruff Rd, Greenville, SC 29607
1451 Woodruff Rd, Greenville, SC 29607
34.8225116
-82.2832615
Walmart Auto Care Centre
Walmart Auto Care Centre
2377 Dave Lyle Blvd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
2377 Dave Lyle Blvd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
34.9432559
-80.9664354
costco
Costco Tire Center
507 Piney Grove Rd, Columbia, SC 29210
507 Piney Grove Rd, Columbia, SC 29210
34.0703456
-81.1412027
Costco Tire Center
Costco Tire Center
211 W Blackstock Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29301
211 W Blackstock Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29301
34.9389103
-81.9995338
Historic Columbia Speedway
Historic Columbia Speedway
2001 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033
2001 Charleston Hwy, Cayce, SC 29033
33.9565719
-81.0820955
Greenville Convention Center
Greenville Convention Center
1 Exposition Dr, Greenville, SC 29607
1 Exposition Dr, Greenville, SC 29607
34.8526839
-82.3563629
Laurens County Speedway
Laurens County Speedway
435 Race Track Rd, Laurens, SC 29360
435 Race Track Rd, Laurens, SC 29360
34.484902
-81.9931125
Carolina Dragway
Carolina Dragway
302 Dragstrip Rd, Aiken, SC 29803
302 Dragstrip Rd, Aiken, SC 29803
33.3640543
-81.7984968
Tommy Pike Customs
Tommy Pike Customs
2499 Rutherford Rd, Greenville, SC 29609
2499 Rutherford Rd, Greenville, SC 29609
34.9082756
-82.3423761
Did you know that…
South Carolina produces the most tires in all of the US!
South Carolina produces and sells the most tires out of any other state in America! This eventually expanded into the state’s other automotive endeavors. Today, SC has a flourishing and lucrative automotive industry.
South Carolina is a historical southern state with a population of around 5 million. It consists of major cities such as Columbia, Charleston, and North Charleston. There are certainly noteworthy parts of South Carolina and the state consists of diverse landscapes: gentle hills, coastal towns, rolling plains, and the Blue Ridge mountain range. The weather is quite mild and consists of hot, humid summers and forgiving winters. This means most travelers do not have to worry about icy or snowy conditions while they enjoy exploring this southern state. Simply check the tread on those all-season tires before you leave the house and begin your SC adventures!
While South Carolina has gorgeous scenery, historic towns, and a variety of activities to do, it is unfortunately not popular for its roadways. With reports of heavy traffic, poor road conditions, high accident rates, and complex roadway laws, drivers must be extra mindful and diligent whether they are commuting or traveling through this southern state.
Automotive history
As one of the 13 colonies, South Carolina naturally comes with a colorful history. Similarly, its automotive industry has an interesting past as well. Dating all the way back to 1916 when John Gary Anderson, a former horse and carriage manufacturer, created the Anderson. This model was designed to compete with the Model T and offered a more luxurious (and more expensive!) alternative. Despite its short shelf life, the Anderson was believed to be “the most successful automobile” in the south during this time. Today, there are only a handful of these cars left and, if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot one at a vintage car show or an automobile museum in South Carolina.
Automotive today
Years after the Anderson was developed, South Carolina became home to the only BMW manufacturing plant in the USA. Today, this plant produces more automobiles than any other BMW manufacturing company in the world. Needless to say, this has put SC on the map as a leader in the automotive industry. Aside from BMW, it is home to other popular companies such as Bridgestone, Mercedes Benz Vans, Volvo, Michelin, and General Dynamics. Currently, the automotive industry in SC employs over 71,000 South Carolinians and is currently the leading exporter of tires in the entire United States including reputable brands such as Bridgestone, Michelin, and BFGoodrich. Having such a profitable automotive industry in SC has not only profited the state, but also the entire south.
Automotive innovation
Based on the success in the automotive industry, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that South Carolina is also a leader in automobile innovation. Top SC universities are working alongside automotive companies to develop unique and innovative technologies from electric vehicles to vision-guided vehicles. As a whole, the state is working to increase and fund access to more charging stations and welcome more carbon-conscious automobiles. While you’re waiting for these new, modern models to reach the market, you can work to reduce your own carbon footprint by recycling and buying used tires such as the Bridgestone Ecopia, which you can find in the ‘shop by brand’ section of our website.
Automotive attractions
South Carolina is a great place to visit and check out automotive museums, tourist attractions, and events.
Zentrum Museum: If you’re visiting South Carolina, you should definitely consider a stop at the Zentrum museum at the BMW plant where you can take a tour to see numerous BMW models -- both classic and modern models. The best part? This museum is completely free!
Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival: For 20 years, this festival has welcomed the most passionate automobile enthusiasts. This annual weekend event offers a variety of automobile collections from various times in history. Added bonus: beautiful location, food, drinks, and free parking!
Wheels of Yesteryear: Located in Myrtle Beach, this museum offers visitors a look into a collection of vintage cars. Since the museum rotates its selection, you’ll always have the chance to see a variety of classic cars on display.
Cruise-Ins: If you’re interested in meeting with other car enthusiasts in a more casual setting, SC offers a variety of cruise-in events. At these get-togethers, participants can show off their automobiles and/or view them! If you’re interested, check out cruise-in locations and times near you.
Choosing the right tires for driving in South Carolina
Where to buy new tires in South Carolina?
It could be you’re from Beaufort, where they make a lovely stew, or you’re heading west from Clemson University to experience spring break in Myrtle Beach, you’ll need to be sure your tires are safe and suitable for the drive. Spring can get wet and if you feel an ounce of hydroplaning it’s probably time to inquire about some affordable new tires.
Where can you find the best deal on tires in South Carolina? Well, you might find a few well-known brands that offer competitive prices and dependable services such as Walmart Auto Care or Costco. Furthermore, family-owned tire shops in South Carolina can be found on every corner. However, if you’re looking for the most convenient way to find cheap new tires in SC, nothing beats buying tires online at utires.com.
Check out our user-friendly website and easily search for new or used tires. Want something even simpler? You can search tires by brand, season, terrain, purpose, or vehicle type. The best part is your tires will roll directly to your doorstep in SC through our free FedEx Home Delivery Service.
Where to buy used tires in South Carolina?
If you’re in the market for used tires in South Carolina, it’s best to always do your due diligence. All tire shops and other options you seek should be vetted carefully; each should have a quality reputation for tire safety and knowledge. It’s important to know that used tires must have enough tread left on them to be safe on the roads. Snow tires are not really necessary in SC as the winters can be fairly mild near the coast, but cooler when you arrive further north inland. Either way, SC gets little snow or ice on the roadways.
All-season tires are the more popular choice since South Carolina is humid and hot in the summer, mild in the winter, and a bit rainy all year round. Unfortunately, the state is prone to the occasional hurricane in its coastal cities so be mindful of weather patterns and stay off the roadways if advised by authorities to do so.
At Utires.com we pride ourselves on thoroughly checking every set of tires sold to our customers. Our 2-stage meticulous tire quality inspection includes manual inspection and using state-of-the-art machinery tests. We focus on superior customer service, a generous return policy, and seamless servicing to satisfy our customers. If you’re interested, check out our stock of 60,000+ used tires and let our customer support staff help you choose the right set of tires for your vehicle.
Browse the used tires for sale section of our website to discover dozens of reputable tire brands
Need discount tires? Search the cheap tires under $50 section at the click of a button
All used tires on United Tires are thoroughly checked twice: once manually and once using specialist machinery. That way, we can be confident our tires are safe and ready for the road
We do sell used tires that have only been driven once so customers can enjoy significant discounts without compromising tread
Our return policy is second to none, so you can shop for tires online without worry
Customers have 1 year to return tires that are in their original condition, no questions asked
Utires.com is basically “a tire shop near you” no matter where you are!
Want to know more about the utires.com service or get some personalized advice from our staff? Call toll-free at 1-888-566-6214, or press the Live Chat button to talk with our incredibly helpful sales reps!
What tires do you need for South Carolina weather?
All-season tires
South Carolina is known for its humid, semi-tropical climate. Rain, thunderstorms, and the occasional hurricane are common during the spring and fall months. Hot summers and great beaches will cook up some heavy tourism, but it’s also the perfect recipe for all-season tires. This weather is great for driving all year round on all-season tires. These tires have been specially designed for mild climates, with no extreme temperatures. Overall, all-season tires are hassle-free; known for great tread life, a smoother ride, and can aid in fuel economy. Whether you choose Michelin, Bridgestone, or Goodyear, just know that whatever brand you pick, these tires are all carefully constructed for the warm and mild weather conditions you’ll experience in SC.
Performance tires
If you plan to be driving for long periods of time in the South Carolina heat, you might consider choosing performance tires. Summer tires have been designed to handle hot road surfaces and often offer better grip than all-season tires in prolonged heat. The best place to buy new or used performance tires is, of course, United Tires.
Best-selling tire brands in South Carolina
*Source: utires.com sales department, 2022
The most popular tire sizes in South Carolina
*Source: utires.com sales department, 2022
Shop tires by season
DRIVERS’ SOUTH CAROLINA GUIDE: PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Whether you're grabbing groceries, driving to work, or traveling as a tourist, it’s always helpful to be aware of road regulations wherever you are. The following list provides information that will help you drive safely around the beautiful state of South Carolina.
Live traffic report
Whenever hitting the road, it is always best to check out traffic reports so you can be informed, alert and safe on your journey. South Carolina has quite a reputation for heavy traffic and poor roadway conditions. Therefore, checking for road congestion, road construction, and/or traffic incidents before you head onto the road can help you navigate the best routes.
It is not required by law to change your tires in South Carolina. The weather in the state is quite mild and while there is a seasonal winter, temperatures on the coast and plains rarely exceed 40F. In the Upstate area, the winters can experience some snow and colder temperatures. The spring and fall months are lovely for taking drives to see the fall foliage or visit local, historic towns. Summers are a perfect time to visit the coastal towns and pop down to the beach as the average temperature is around 90F. For this reason, tire changeover isn’t always necessary as long as you invest in a reliable set of all-season new or used tires. Be sure to maintain your tries by checking the treads. If you find yourself needing new tires after a while, go to our website. You can save up to 50% on buying used tires in perfect condition.
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time driving in summer, our tire experts recommend summer tires that are built to withstand prolonged heat exposure to tires. Considering it can get quite humid in SC, this is a thoughtful investment. Remember, you can choose new or used tires on our website and get them delivered right to your doorstep!
If you’re living or traveling in the Upstate area or in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’re more likely to experience snow, ice, or sleet during winter. While this doesn’t tend to be overly harsh and most South Carolinians agree that snow tires aren’t necessary, you might consider using winter tires if you’re traveling in these areas quite often or for extended periods of time during December-January.
Driving laws in South Carolina
Similar to all states, SC has a variety of laws that drivers must adhere to; these laws are in place to keep roadways, pedestrians, and drivers safe. Drivers are expected to follow road rules at all times when operating a vehicle in SC. Some of the most important driving laws in South Carolina include:
Yield to pedestrians:, All drivers must yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street. This includes pedestrians who may be using a driveway or parking lot
Move for speedy vehicles: The left lane is considered the ‘fast’ lane so vehicles who are driving slower are obligated to switch lanes (to the right) if a car is quickly approaching behind you
Electronic usage: Unless using a hands-free device, it is illegal to use a cell phone when operating a vehicle in South Carolina. In fact, it is even illegal to use headphones while driving as this could cause a distraction
Drink Driving: It’s illegal to drive in the state of South Carolina with a blood alcohol limit of 0.08 or above. If you are caught driving over the limit, you risk going to prison, having a suspended license, and/or paying a large fine.
Speeding: In SC, there are two-speed limits called ‘basic’ and ‘absolute.’ If a driver exceeds the speed listed in the ‘absolute’ category (even by 1mph) it is considered illegal and, if caught, they can expect a fine
Unspoken Road Rules
Whether you’re traveling in the city or more rural locations in South Carolina, there are some road rules that aren’t always as obvious – especially if you’re just visiting an area.
Due to the heavy traffic in big cities, South Carolinians suggest commuters travel before rush hour. This calls for early mornings of around 6 am, but you’ll likely avoid the stress of packed roadways.
It is illegal to wear headphones while driving so be sure you connect to wireless Bluetooth to operate your GPS, music, and calls!
Parking rules
Tires aren’t all about driving; you have to let them rest sometimes, too! The parking rules in SC are pretty straightforward, but this guide will help you with a few parking tips which include:
Construction: In order to avoid additional traffic, do not park near construction or repair sites. This includes alongside or across the street.
No interstates: You are not permitted to park your vehicle on an interstate. However, if you have an accident, you should move your car to the right-hand side until you can have it removed.
No crosswalks or sidewalks Parking on a crosswalk or sidewalk is inconvenient and dangerous for pedestrians so be sure you park in areas that are clearly marked for your automobile.
Window tint laws
While window tinting is both popular and practical, South Carolina has a straightforward set of window tint laws that motor vehicles are required to follow. Some of the important window tint laws to remember in SC are included here:
There are restrictions on how dark the tint can be. All motor vehicles must allow 27% of light into the vehicle in the following windows: front, backside, and rear
Motor vehicles can have a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
There are no tint restrictions for the rear window
Yellow, amber, and red tint colors are banned in SC
Violating window tint laws in SC will result in a minimum fine of $200 but could be much more expensive depending on the offense. For more information about window tinting laws, visit the South Carolina Tint Laws.
Want to know more about the tinting industry? Find out the latest news, get pro tips, learn about the best products from top manufacturers, and much more!
Helmet laws
In South Carolina, it is not required for motorcyclists to wear a helmet unless they are under the age of 21. In other words, SC doesn't abide by “universal helmet laws.” So, if you’re under the age of 21 make sure you strap up that shell to protect your noggin!
While helmets are one way to keep motorcyclists safer, there are other ways to reduce your risk of injury.
Whenever driving a motor vehicle, use your turn signal when appropriate
Motorcyclists should use both their turn and hand signals
When driving near a motorcycle, allow them the full lane at all times and be mindful of merging
When possible, follow motorcyclists at a distance to account for potential emergencies
Roads and highways
Traveling to the capital of South Carolina and need to get there quickly? There's a good chance you’ll find an interstate while traversing from the North, South, East, or West of Richmond County. Columbia, South Carolina is smack dab in the middle of the state and naturally attracts a lot of traffic. But be careful, a few of these interstates have been known to be a bit dicey. Keep an eye on the traffic report and make sure you’re diligent behind the wheel.
Interstate 20: I-20 stretches east to west passing through the state capital city of Columbia. If you head west off of I-95 from Florence toward North Augusta expect to see 6 lanes at some point while reducing your speed down to 60 miles an hour near Columbia.
Interstate 26: I-26 is the rural junction that took Darius Rucker’s “wagon wheel westbound from the Cumberland Gap to Johnson City, Tennessee.” Once you get into South Carolina, you’ll stretch across the Palmetto State to Charleston. This interstate links the Greenville and Spartanburg area with Columbia as it expands over the state.
Interstate 77: If you're making the trek up or down from Charlotte to Columbia then I-77 is probably your best bet. On the way stop in Rock Hill or Great Falls for a nice sandwich at Flopeye Diner.
Interstate 85: I-85 or the Northeast Expressway is a major Interstate Highway that starts in Montgomery, Alabama, and stretches to I-95 in Petersburg, Virginia. This busy highway strides across major upstate cities such as Spartanburg and Greenville.
Interstate 95: The well-known I-95 runs north and south taking you up and down the coast through a number of eastern states. If you’re road tripping down to Savannah stop at Lake Marion after you pass through Florence and Manning.
Scenic routes
A state that can offer you scenic landscapes, historic towns, coastal beaches, and endless food and drink options. South Carolina can surprise your road-tripping needs if you’re out on the road passing through or visiting the Palmetto State! Be sure to check out some of these beautiful drives while breaking in those new tires.
Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway: Find your way on some must-drive winding upstate roads along the Chattooga River. Pull over, rest your those busy tires, and take a gander at Wigington Overlook, one of the best vistas South Carolina can offer. Don’t forget to stop at a waterfall or two on your way through.
Hilton Head to Charleston: Steer your way up the east coast from Hilton Head to Charleston while breaking for some sunny waterfront beaches. Expect to allure amongst the coastal views and charming beachfront towns. Either way you go, make sure you stop in Beaufort for some seafood or gumbo.
Ashley River Road: During spring or summer there's a neat drive on one of South Carolina’s oldest roads. This charming pass will treat you with curtains of moss-hanging oak tree cover. Furthermore, it's worth stopping by Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation, and Gardens for more lovely attractions.
Fun facts
South Carolina is a lovely southern state with an interesting history. There are some things, however, that even South Carolinians might not know…
South Carolina actually produces more peaches than its neighbor, Georgia
Greer, South Carolina is home to the only BMW plant in the USA and it produced over 1,000 vehicles per day
In SC it is legal for a six-year-old to drive an ATV! Although, they are required to wear helmets and eye protection.
Shop by tire type
Best tires for South Carolina
White South Carolina is a beautiful state for a road trip, it doesn’t have the best reputation for road safety. It is ranked quite high in terms of traffic accidents, DUIs, and poor roadways. Therefore, it is essential to be careful and safe when driving through this southern state.
The climate is humid subtropical, offering mild winters and warm summers. This is why most drivers in SC opt for all-season tires which can be driven all year round. These are a great option for most weather and road conditions. Since you aren’t likely to change out your tires in winter, drivers should still be mindful and check that the tread on their tires is in good condition.
South Carolina’s hurricane season runs from June to November so if you’re traveling through the state during this time, be mindful of weather conditions. In addition, it is a good idea to be aware of the evacuation routes and understand that when hurricanes occur, roadways can become congested, unsafe, or even closed completely.
In the north, drivers are likely to experience a more mountainous terrain than the rest of the state. Drivers can easily and safely follow the Oscar Wigington Scenic Byway which offers a scenic view of the Blue Ridge mountain range. In this area, there are waterfalls, camping, local food joints, and — in the fall — fresh foliage. Don’t let driving through the mountains intimidate you as there are many safe and simple roadways along this route. As a precaution, however, always check that your tires are in good condition before traveling through the mountains. If you plan to do a lot of wild adventuring into the mountains of South Carolina, all-terrain tires might be an option for you. These tires offer great traction in tougher terrains. If you’re interested in reading more about these tires (especially how they differ from all-season tires) you can find additional information on our website.
In the opposite direction, drivers will find themselves experiencing rolling hills, marshes, and coastlines. On this route, you might want to stop for a round of golf, visit a museum in Charleston or explore Myrtle Beach. Once again, all-season tires are a perfectly fine option for this type of terrain. If you are planning to spend quite a bit of time touring SC and the ultimate comfort is what you’re after, you might consider touring tires. These types of tires are responsive and due to their asymmetrical tread patterns, they are quiet and comfortable which will make your journey even more enjoyable.
Due to poor infrastructure and maintenance, South Carolina is notorious for poor roads and potholes. If you live in an area that is rampant with potholes, you might consider run-flat tires. These types of tires are formulated in a way that allows you to keep driving even after puncturing your tire. This allows the driver to safely get to a mechanic and won’t be left stranded on the side of the road with a flat.
Shop for all tire types on our utires.com and indulge in the potential to save up to 50% on our quality-assured used tires. Keep in mind we offer free and fast FedEx shipping right to your doorstep! Anywhere in South Carolina!
Buy tires in South Carolina and save up to 50%!
United Tires offers our South Carolinian customers over 60,000 high-quality new and used tires. Thanks to our smart pricing policy, we guarantee the lowest prices in the market and genuinely aim to make the highest quality tires accessible to all of our customers. Our discounted products make buying all-season tires an affordable option. By shopping online at our website, you can save up to 50% by getting yourself a set of used tires with perfect tread, instead of the same new tires that are twice the price!
Other tire websites
Set of 4 used tires
Tread Depth
0/32
11/32
Average Price
$546.65
Based on pricing for set of 4 new 245/55/18 on other tire websites
Other tire websites
Based on pricing for set of 4 new 245/55/18 on other tire websites
Set of 4 used tires
Tread Depth
0/32
9/32
11/32
Average Price
$246.65
Based on pricing for set of 4 used 245/55/18 on utires.com
Savings $215.65
Based on pricing for set of 4 used 245/55/18 on utires.com
You can always find great deals like that in our used tire shop — both offline and online. Outfit your ride with a spare, with run flat tires, with tires for pretty much every kind of vehicle and occasion! Shop for tires now and get the best deals in South Carolina!
Drivers in SC have numerous choices for tire shopping. Tire centers and manufacturers are available everywhere in the state offering buyers a range of new and used tires. For an even more convenient option, shop Utires.com for new and used tires and get free FedEx delivery right to your door.
What tires are best for South Carolina?
Most South Carolinians agree that all-season tires are the best option for driving. Since South Carolina does not typically face harsh weather conditions, all-season tires offer the best traction in the milder conditions you’ll experience. We know hurricanes can be harsh but don’t go driving through one of those.
Do I need winter tires in South Carolina?
The short answer is: probably not. SC is a subtropical climate and your chance of experiencing snow in South Carolina is pretty unlikely. Aside from the north near the Appalachian mountains, the expectation for snow is quite low with the average amount of snowfall being 1 inch per year.