Can You Really Get Money for Old Tires?
Explore the real value of old tires. Uncover if you can earn money, avoid costs, or find alternative uses beyond simple disposal.
Many old tires are simply discarded, but they can hold value or help avoid disposal costs. Understanding these possibilities can help individuals manage used tires more effectively.
Selling Usable Tires
Selling usable tires is one way to potentially gain money. For resale, a tire needs sufficient tread depth, typically at least 4/32 inches. Tires must also be free from significant damage like bulges, deep cuts, or sidewall cracks. Ideally, tires should be less than six years old, as rubber compounds degrade over time.
Several avenues exist for selling used tires. Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay provide platforms to reach buyers. Specialized tire websites are also available. Local tire shops may purchase used tires, especially if they are in good condition. Some retread facilities might also buy high-quality used tires for repair and resale.
A used tire’s value is influenced by its brand, size, type, and remaining tread. Used tires typically sell for 30% to 50% less than new ones, with prices ranging from $10 to $150. To maximize value, inspect tires thoroughly, measure tread depth accurately, and check the DOT code for the manufacturing date. Clear photos and detailed descriptions on selling platforms can also enhance appeal.
Recycling Programs and Scrap Value
Individuals typically do not receive cash for dropping off old tires at recycling centers or collection events. Instead, a fee is often associated with tire disposal and recycling. These fees cover the costs of transporting and processing tires, as they are non-biodegradable and require specialized handling. Disposing of a regular-sized tire generally costs $0.25 to $10, varying by state and facility.
Tires contain steel belts, but their scrap value for individual tires is usually not significant enough for direct payment from metal recycling yards. Most scrap metal yards focus on larger quantities or more easily extractable metal. However, if tires are still mounted on rims, the metal rims may have scrap value and can be sold to metal recycling centers.
State-mandated tire fees, collected at the point of new tire purchase, fund recycling initiatives. These programs divert tires from landfills and support their conversion into products like rubberized asphalt or playground surfaces. While direct cash payments are uncommon, some communities or organizations occasionally host free tire collection events, offering a cost-free disposal option.
Repurposing and Responsible Disposal
Beyond selling or traditional recycling, old tires offer indirect value through repurposing or by avoiding disposal costs. Repurposing tires involves transforming them into new items, saving money on new materials for projects. Common uses include garden planters, compost bins, or landscaping elements.
Tires can also be used for DIY projects like outdoor furniture, swings, pet beds, or decorative art. While these methods do not generate direct cash, they provide value as inexpensive or free materials for creations around a home or property. This approach reduces waste and contributes to cost savings on household or garden expenses.
For responsible disposal without fees, several options exist. Many tire retailers offer take-back programs when new tires are purchased, often including old tire disposal as part of the service or integrated into the new tire price. Local municipalities or environmental agencies frequently organize community tire collection events, allowing residents to drop off old tires free of charge. These events typically have specific guidelines, such as limits on accepted tires or requirements for unmounted rims.