Save Big on Clearance Tires at Walmart: Smart Guide

If you’re hunting for safe, reliable tires without overspending, Walmart’s clearance selection can deliver serious value.

This guide explains how clearance pricing works, which brands and types are most often discounted, and how to make sure a clearance tire fits your vehicle and driving needs—so you save money without sacrificing safety.

How Walmart Clearance Tire Pricing Works

Clearance tires at Walmart are typically brand-new tires priced lower because of inventory reasons, not because anything is wrong with them. Common triggers include model-year closeouts (a tire gets replaced by a new version), discontinued sizes or tread designs, surplus shipments that exceed shelf space, or limited-size availability that doesn’t fit as many vehicles. The upshot for you: the same dependable rubber at a reduced price.

Pricing often varies by store and online availability. Limited quantities, oddball sizes, and last-in-stock units tend to be discounted the most. You’ll see these deals in-store at the Auto Care Center and on Walmart.com; if you’re shopping online, set your local store for accurate inventory and pickup options. You can start your search on the main Walmart tires page and filter for your vehicle or tire size to uncover clearance markdowns.

In-store, look for end caps or tags in the Auto Care Center. Associates can check nearby stores for sizes you need, and many locations will ship between stores. Online, watch for messages like “limited stock” or “last chance”—clearance inventory moves quickly and may not be replenished.

Clearance doesn’t mean “as-is.” These are new tires that typically carry standard manufacturer warranties. However, policies on returns, road-hazard coverage, and installation packages can vary by location and by tire brand, so always confirm details at checkout.

Brands and Tire Types Often on Clearance

You’ll frequently find recognized names on clearance, including Goodyear, Cooper, Hankook, Kumho, General, Falken, BFGoodrich, Pirelli, and Walmart-exclusive lines like Douglas. Availability changes, but the types most commonly discounted include:

All-season touring tires from model-year closeouts.
Performance summer or all-season tires in limited or less-common sizes.
Highway and all-terrain (A/T) light-truck tires from discontinued patterns or surplus shipments.
Winter/snow tires at the end of the cold season (great time to buy for next winter).

Because clearance is driven by inventory, the “best” deal for you is the tire that matches your vehicle’s specs and your driving conditions—not simply the biggest markdown.

Is a Clearance Tire Right for Your Vehicle?

1) Confirm the exact size and fitment

Start with the driver’s door-jamb placard or your owner’s manual, which lists the original equipment (OE) tire size (for example, P215/60R16), the load index (e.g., 94), and the speed rating (e.g., H). You can also verify sizing guidance and other safety basics on the NHTSA tire safety page. Matching all three—size, load index, and speed rating—is essential for safe handling and proper load-carrying capacity.

2) Match load index and speed rating (don’t go lower)

It’s acceptable to choose a tire with an equal or higher load index or speed rating than OE, but avoid going lower. If you drive a truck or SUV, check whether your vehicle requires LT-metric tires and a specific Load Range (C, D, or E). Staying within spec ensures stable braking, safe highway speeds, and reliable towing or hauling performance.

3) Check tire age (DOT date code)

New clearance tires can be older stock. Look for the four-digit DOT code on the sidewall (for example, “1323” means week 13 of 2023). While many manufacturers consider properly stored tires serviceable for several years, newer is generally better—especially for winter tires, where compound freshness helps cold-weather grip.

4) Compare UTQG ratings and performance symbols

For passenger tires, review UTQG ratings for treadwear, traction, and temperature to gauge expected longevity and wet braking. Note that dedicated winter tires and some light-truck tires may not carry UTQG. If you face severe winter weather, look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol rather than relying on M+S alone.

5) Think about your climate and driving style

Commuters and families often do best with all-season touring tires tuned for quiet, comfort, and long life. Performance-focused drivers may prefer a summer or UHP all-season, while rural or mixed-terrain drivers might prioritize an A/T pattern. Clearance pricing can make a higher-tier option attainable if it still matches your needs and specs.

Benefits of Buying Clearance Inventory

Model-year closeouts: When a tire is updated, the prior version frequently goes on clearance—great for value hunters who want proven performance at a discount.
Discontinued stock: When a line or specific size is discontinued, remaining inventory is marked down, often significantly.
Surplus shipments: Extra inventory can push prices lower to free shelf space.
Limited-size availability: Sizes that fit fewer vehicles may be deeply discounted—perfect if they match your car’s exact requirements.

These scenarios don’t diminish quality; they simply reflect the product lifecycle and inventory management. The key is to confirm that the tire matches your vehicle’s specifications and your driving conditions.

Smart Shopping Tips for Safety and Maximum Value

Use fitment tools: On Walmart.com, enter your vehicle or tire size to surface compatible options and avoid mismatches. Set your local store for accurate stock and pickup windows.
Inspect sidewalls and labels: Verify size, load index, and speed rating. Check the DOT date code for age and look for the 3PMSF symbol if you need true winter capability.
Buy a complete set when possible: Four matching tires ensure balanced handling and even wear. If you must mix, keep identical pairs on each axle and follow professional guidance.
Plan installation early: Walmart Auto Care Centers can mount, balance, service TPMS, and handle rotations. Confirm current pricing, available road-hazard coverage, and appointment windows at your local store.
Compare warranty terms: Many clearance tires still carry manufacturer limited warranties. Keep receipts and warranty booklets; registration may be required.
Mind seasonal timing: Shop winter tires at season’s end, and performance tires in the off-season, when clearance selection tends to be better.
Act fast but verify: Clearance stock is often last-in and last-out. If the specs fit and the price is right, move quickly—after double-checking compatibility and age.

Installation, Service, and Warranty Considerations

Professional installation helps ensure safety and long tire life. Walmart locations offer mounting, balancing, valve stems where applicable, lug re-torque, and rotation/balance services; availability can vary by store. Confirm whether road-hazard coverage is offered on your tire and whether it applies to clearance purchases. If you prefer to compare options, use the Walmart Auto Care Center finder to check services at nearby stores and schedule ahead.

After installation, maintain proper pressure (use the door-jamb specification), rotate at intervals recommended by your vehicle or tire maker, and monitor tread depth. These simple steps maximize the value of your clearance purchase.

When to Skip a Clearance Deal

The tire’s size, load index, or speed rating doesn’t meet your vehicle’s OE specs.
The DOT date code indicates the tire is older than you’re comfortable with for your use case.
Only one or two tires are available and you can’t assemble a safe, matching set.
The tread pattern is mismatched for your climate (e.g., summer tire for snowy conditions without a winter set).
You tow or haul heavy loads and the tire’s LT designation or Load Range doesn’t meet requirements.

Bottom Line

For budget-conscious commuters, families, and anyone prepping for seasonal changes, clearance tires at Walmart can stretch your dollars while keeping safety front and center. Start your search online, verify fitment and age, compare warranties, and book professional installation. Do that, and you can land name-brand reliability at a price that fits your budget—and your daily drive.