Before you visit the shops, do your research and make phone calls. I was able to get a nearly 60% discount on my tires because I called Discount, BigO, Costco, then had them all compete for my business. Last 5 sets I got from Discount I've been very happy with.

Most of the stuff you can negotiate for free: stems, balancing, rotation, side wall insurance, etc. Basically, you should get all this stuff for free and just price tire vs tire. Nothing wrong with letting the salesperson know that if you get a good deal you'll not only bring in your car, but your wife's car, the kids, tell the grandparents....and everyone on this forum.

I know a sales manager at a Discount tire in Westminster, shoot me a pm if you want his name and number.

Dave

This thread just gave me a thought...there are enough of us here to probably start negotiating group discounts at some common stores we shop at. Tires might be the first time to test this theory....