ENGLISH
REFERENCE

kick some tires

idiom
Meaning

To shop for a vehicle or other item to purchase or in which to invest.

Origin

disputed origin

See kick the tires.

Examples
SIMPLE

I am going to the dealership to kick some tires today.

CONTEXTUAL

Before we commit to buying a new company van, we should visit a few lots to kick some tires.

COMPLEX

The investors decided to kick some tires on the startup's financial projections before they agreed to provide any significant capital.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    dog who caught the tire

    One who accomplishes a seemingly impossible feat, but does not know what to do next.

  2. 02

    get a kick out of

    To be delighted by; to be amused by.

  3. 03

    get one's kicks

    To enjoy oneself, to have a good time.

  4. 04

    kick a dog when it's down

    To make things worse for someone in an adverse situation.

  5. 05

    kick ass

    To win decisively.

  6. 06

    kick ass and take names

    To beat someone in a competition, fight, or other situation.

  7. 07

    kick at an open door

    To carry out a redundant activity.

  8. 08

    kick at the can

    An attempt or an opportunity.

Last updated April 17, 2026