Ok all I have a major dilemma that i'd love some advice/input on.

Background: I live in MI and with the recent 14" snowstorm and more ice/snow to come I need snow tires big time.

Option #1: Tirerack.com

4 x General Altimax Artic 215/55R16's @$75/each
4 x F10 Sport Edition rims @$79/each
Wheel locks $19.99
shipping $73

Total cost: $715 shipped and balanced

They have steelies for $55 but for a few bucks more I figure I might as well get something that looks decent.




Option #2: Discount Tire (local)

Cheapest snow tires are Hankook Icebear W300's for @$121.00 + tax

Sheesh!!!!

Their rim selection is even more disgusting pricewise (at least from what i can see online).

I am thinking about ordering the above rims from tirerack and getting these tires.


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I'm just wondering if the advantage of having discount tire warrenty the tires and offer cheap repairs (i've always had great service and experience with them with replacements for flats/etc). Also the whole tire balancing/etc would be nice.


Questions:

Does anyone know if Discount Tire or Belle Tire changes your winter/summer tires back and forth and balances for free if you purchase your tires from them?

Just wondering if it's better to order everything from tirerack but just have to change my own rims and possibly get them balanced twice a year (once for winter, once for summer) or if i should just pay more upfront at discount tire and have the service.

Thoughts? Thanks guys! Happy Holidays!