Cost for four new tires from TireRack + shipping + install by local shop highly rated by TireRack: $662.42
Cost for the same tires from and installed by (different) local shop highly rated by Angie's List: $599.20.
($541.24 for tires, $57.96 for install.)
I'm pretty darn surprised the Tire Rack option is 10.6% more expensive than the local shop option.
I'm getting Michelin Primacy MXV4 (Grand Touring All-Season) (H rated) tires, because they're highly rated on TireRack.
Why? Should I be getting tires there? M3 should be needing them soon.
The sales schtick is, "This is the price, it includes everything" No haggling, no coupons, no hidden fees, just a price. it includes mounting, balancing, new stems, old tire disposal, rotation in xxx miles, everything.
They're a regional distributor, which is why they're gruff, and cheap. They're also professional, no monkeys messing around with your car. They know tires, and don't try to do anything else.
You *rarely* need to make an appointment, usually you can just show up, but it's a good idea to call first to make sure they have the model and size you want in stock; it's also a good time to ask, "so, can I just drop by?" The answer is nearly always, "yes", and "yes".
However, they're *not* going to care about your driving style, your expected treadwear life, how quiet you like your car, etc. Figure out what you want for the best experience.