Buying tyres online sounds simple until you face a list of hundreds of results, a row of codes such as 205/55 R16 91V, and a decision between a dozen brands. The tool that keeps the process manageable is the search configurator. If you have never used one, this guide walks through the one on ReifenDirekt.at, which the retailer describes as Europe’s largest online tyre dealer.
The description below is based on what the retailer says on its own site. Layouts change, so treat it as a map and not a screenshot. If you are shopping for a particular car in Austria, you can start straight away at ReifenDirekt.at.
Open the ReifenDirekt Tyre Configurator
In this guide
Step 1: Start With the Right Size
According to ReifenDirekt, buying tyres begins with the correct size. The shop offers two ways to find it. You can type the size straight in if you already have it, or you can search by your vehicle data.
- By size: read the numbers on the sidewall of your current tyre. They give width, aspect ratio, rim diameter, load index and speed rating.
- By vehicle: pick the make, model and type of your car, and the configurator shows the available tyres that fit.
If your car has more than one approved size, check your registration documents or manual before ordering. The configurator helps, but the final responsibility is yours.
Step 2: Pick a Tyre Type
The shop lists several types, and choosing the right one for your driving is more important than the brand. Per the retailer’s own list, you can buy:
- Summer tyres
- Winter tyres
- All-weather (all-season) tyres
- Motorcycle tyres
- Racing tyres
- Retreaded tyres
The retailer also lists alloy and steel rims and complete wheels, which you can assemble to your own specification. For everyday driving in Austria, most people are choosing between summer, winter and all-weather.
Step 3: Sort the Results
After the configurator shows the matching tyres, the list can be sorted and filtered for clarity. ReifenDirekt says you can sort by manufacturer, price or speed index. The table below shows what each sorting option is useful for.
| Sort by | Useful when | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Price | You have a fixed budget | Compare the label values too, not only the price |
| Manufacturer | You already have a preferred brand | A brand name does not replace checking the label |
| Speed index | Your car or usage needs a certain rating | Never go below the rating approved for your vehicle |
The prices shown, according to the retailer, are per piece and include VAT and shipping within Austria. That makes it easy to compare totals, but remember to multiply by the number of tyres you need.
Step 4: Use the Filters
The retailer mentions two filters that matter to many drivers: run-flat tyres and rim protection. If your car came with run-flat tyres, you will want to keep to that type. A rim protection feature helps if you often park close to kerbs. Use filters to reduce a long list to a short, relevant one.
Step 5: Read the Label and the Reviews
Once you have a shortlist, look at two sources of information. First, the EU tyre label. The retailer says it is mandatory for tyres produced since 1 November 2012 and tells you about rolling resistance, wet grip and noise. You can sort the list to find tyres in the best category A for rolling resistance, wet grip and noise.
Second, the reviews. The shop presents customer and expert reviews alongside the tyres, so you can read about quality before buying. It also offers a filter for the best-rated tyre, which it calls the test winner. Treat it as a starting point and compare the details yourself.
Compare Tyres at ReifenDirekt.at
Step 6: Check Tread Depth on Your Old Tyres
While you shop, measure the tread on your current set. ReifenDirekt states that the legal minimum in Austria is 1.6 mm and that falling below it risks a fine. It recommends 3 mm for summer tyres and 4 mm for winter tyres to keep a good grip in rain, snow and ice.
Step 7: Order and Plan the Fitting
According to the retailer, ordered tyres usually arrive within two to three days after payment is received, and you can choose the delivery address, for example one of its fitting partners near you. Shipping is free when you order at least two tyres. The retailer advertises flexible payment options and fast delivery within a few working days.
- Confirm that the tyre size and speed rating match your approved sizes.
- Choose a delivery address where you will be present, or a fitting partner.
- Book the fitting appointment before the tyres arrive.
- Keep the order confirmation until the tyres are mounted and checked.
A short worked example shows how the steps fit together. Imagine you drive a compact car and need winter tyres. You enter the vehicle data, choose winter tyres, sort by price, then re-sort by wet grip for the three cheapest results. You open the reviews for each, check the size against your documents, and pick the one with the best balance. The whole process takes minutes, but it only works if the size and speed rating are right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ordering by price only and ignoring wet grip.
- Buying a size that is not approved for your car.
- Forgetting the fitting costs when comparing prices.
- Mixing different tyres on the same axle without checking the advice for your vehicle.
- Waiting until the first snow to buy winter tyres.
Is It Worth Buying Tyres Online?
The advantages are a wide choice and an easy comparison of price, label and reviews from home. The disadvantage is that you still need to arrange the fitting yourself. For many drivers, having the tyres delivered to a fitting partner solves that. If you want to see what is available for your car today, open the ReifenDirekt shop and start with the configurator. You can also go directly to the tyre offers to compare current prices.
Information was taken from reifendirekt.at on 26 October 2026 and may change. Always follow the legal requirements and your vehicle manufacturer’s advice. Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
