When you purchase a new Toyota, it often comes with a complimentary maintenance plan known as ToyotaCare. It sounds great—and it is—but there’s one important question most owners eventually ask:
Does ToyotaCare cover tires?
The short answer is no, ToyotaCare does not cover tires directly. But there’s more to the story, including optional coverage, tire protection tips, and ways to save money on tire-related repairs. This guide breaks it all down in simple terms so you know exactly what to expect.
What Is ToyotaCare?
ToyotaCare is a no-cost maintenance and roadside assistance plan that comes with the purchase or lease of a new Toyota vehicle. It’s included at no extra cost for the first 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
ToyotaCare Includes:
- Engine oil and filter changes
- Tire rotations
- Multi-point inspections
- Fluid level checks and adjustments
- 24/7 roadside assistance (including towing, battery jump-starts, lockout service, and fuel delivery)
While ToyotaCare does include tire rotations and tire-related roadside assistance, it does not cover tire replacement, tire repairs, or tire wear-and-tear.
What ToyotaCare Does NOT Cover Regarding Tires
Here’s what’s excluded under ToyotaCare’s standard plan when it comes to tires:
- Punctures, nail holes, or sidewall damage
- Replacement tires due to wear or road hazards
- Wheel alignment or tire balancing
- Seasonal tire swaps (e.g., winter to summer)
- TPMS sensor replacements or recalibrations
What If You Get a Flat Tire?
ToyotaCare will help you get back on the road, but not pay for a new tire.
If your tire goes flat, ToyotaCare’s roadside assistance will:
- Change your flat tire with your spare (if available)
- Tow your vehicle to the nearest Toyota dealer if you don’t have a spare
However, you’ll be responsible for the cost of a new tire, patching the flat, or repairing any tire-related damage.
Optional Coverage: Tire & Wheel Protection Plans
Toyota dealers often offer Tire & Wheel Protection Plans as an add-on when purchasing or leasing a vehicle. These plans vary by location and provider but can include:
- Tire repair or replacement for road hazard damage
- Wheel repairs due to potholes or curbs
- Cosmetic wheel damage repair (premium packages)
- Towing and installation included
These plans usually cover up to 5 years and may have no deductible. It’s worth considering if you frequently drive in areas with rough roads or construction zones.
How to Protect Your Tires Without Extra Coverage
You don’t need to pay extra if you follow a few smart tire care habits:
- Check tire pressure monthly and adjust to recommended PSI
- Rotate your tires every 5,000–7,500 miles (ToyotaCare includes this)
- Inspect your tires for nails, cuts, or uneven wear
- Avoid potholes, curbs, and debris when driving
- Replace worn-out tires before they become a hazard
Understanding Tire Wear: When Replacement Is Needed
ToyotaCare doesn’t pay for tire wear, so you need to keep an eye on your tread. Here’s a simple trick:
Use the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of it, your tires are too worn and need replacing.
Most tires last between 40,000 and 70,000 miles with proper care, but that depends on driving habits, road conditions, and alignment.
Pro Tip: Save Big with Battery Reconditioning
Just like tires, car batteries aren’t covered under ToyotaCare beyond the basic warranty. A new battery can cost up to $200 or more—but there’s a smarter solution.
👉 Click here to grab the New Battery Reconditioning Course and learn how to bring your car or hybrid battery back to life.
This simple method has saved thousands of car owners serious money—and it works for RAV4s, Corollas, Highlanders, and more.
Real Owner Story: Tire Trouble Without Coverage
Amy from Ohio bought a new Toyota Camry and loved the peace of mind that came with ToyotaCare. But at 8,000 miles, she ran over a nail and ruined her tire.
“I thought ToyotaCare would cover it,” she said. “Turns out, they only helped me put the spare on. I had to buy a new tire myself.”
She later added a tire protection plan and recommends others do the same if they drive on rough roads.
Summary: What You’re Covered For and What You’re Not
| Service | Covered by ToyotaCare? |
|---|---|
| Tire rotations | ✔ Yes |
| Flat tire roadside assistance | ✔ Yes |
| New tires or repairs | ✘ No |
| Tire balancing or alignment | ✘ No |
| TPMS sensor replacement | ✘ No |
Final Thoughts
ToyotaCare offers great value with free maintenance and roadside help, but it does not cover tire repairs or replacements. It’s a smart idea to regularly inspect your tires, rotate them, and consider additional protection if you’re prone to flats.
Don’t forget—you can save even more by reconditioning your battery instead of replacing it.