Have some burning questions? We have the answers!
Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting on the road, these Tyre FAQs are crafted to provide clarity on common queries, ensuring you have the knowledge needed to make confident decisions about your tyres.
The ideal tyre varies from person to person. For some, prioritising the cheapest, longest-lasting option is key. Others prioritise tyre safety, investing a bit more for enhanced grip. Each tyre comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. High-performance tyres offer superior grip but may wear down faster. Grooved tyres efficiently disperse water, enhancing safety on wet roads but potentially contributing to noise.
To find the perfect tyres, consider factors such as the roads you frequent, climate conditions, your car’s make, and your budget.
Different tyres can significantly influence your car’s performance. Choosing the wrong tyres may lead to increased fuel consumption and compromised handling. On the other hand, selecting the right tyres contributes to a safer, more economical, and smoother driving experience. For guidance on choosing the best tyres for your vehicle, speak with our customer care team.
Refer to your vehicle’s manual or the placard on the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tyre size. It’s crucial to match the manufacturer’s specifications.
While it’s best to have a matching set of tyres, in some cases, you can mix brands or types. However, it’s essential to follow guidelines and consult with a professional.
Occasionally, vehicles use front and rear tyres with varying diameters and/or widths. This setup limits the ability to rotate tyres freely on the same axle, depending on the tyre type. It’s essential to inspect your tyres and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding rotation frequency and replacement intervals.
Asymmetrical tyres deviate from the standard by featuring a tread pattern that varies from side to side. This design allows them to perform distinct functions. In regions with unpredictable weather like Queensland, asymmetrical tyres can be crafted with one side optimized for wet driving conditions and the other for superior cornering. Correct orientation during fitting is crucial, and sidewall markings provide guidance. Unlike uni-directional tyres, most manufacturers do not recommend side-to-side rotation for asymmetrical tyres.
Uni-directional tyres are engineered to rotate in one direction only, restricting the possibility of side-to-side rotation. Sidewall markings, usually featuring arrows, indicate their designated rotational direction. These markings serve as a helpful guide during installation to ensure the correct orientation.
Car and tyre manufacturers collaborate to create a comprehensive driving and handling experience. Tyres play a pivotal role in safety, making it worthwhile to consider sticking to the make and model chosen by manufacturers. Some automakers may even offer original tyre replacements as part of routine car servicing.
Run Flat Technology tyres can withstand punctures, allowing drivers to continue driving even with a deflated tyre, avoiding roadside stops.
Aspect ratio is the section height divided by section width, affecting the tyre’s smoothness and safety. Higher figures result in a smoother ride, while lower figures enhance safety for high-speed cars.
Camber is the tyre’s tilt angle. Zero degrees means it’s perpendicular to the road. Negative camber tilts in, while positive camber tilts away from the vehicle at the top.
Cold inflation pressure is the tyre pressure before the vehicle is driven and the tyre warms up.
The load index indicates the maximum weight a tyre can safely carry.
PSI stands for ‘pounds per square inch’ and is a standard pressure measurement. Normal tyre pressure varies and depends on tyre size and application. Your PSI should be recommended by a trained tyre fitter.
The sidewall is the part of the tyre between the wheel edge and tread, containing important markings and information including tyre sizes and load carrying capacity.
Yes, extreme temperatures can impact tyre pressure. Regularly check and adjust tyre pressure to ensure optimal performance in hot summers and cold winters.
Check your tyre pressures promptly. If the light persists, it may indicate a puncture, and professional inspection is recommended.
The feasibility of repairing a puncture depends on its location. Small punctures in the tread area are often reparable, while those near the sidewall or shoulder may necessitate tyre replacement. If you find yourself with a puncture, there’s a good chance it can be fixed before requiring a full tyre replacement. External plugs can offer a reliable temporary solution, though they may not serve as a permanent fix. When considering a tyre repair, it’s crucial to note that it can only be executed in the tread area. In all cases, entrust the repair to a professional who can thoroughly assess for any internal damage.
Tyre sealants serve as effective temporary solutions for sealing small punctures. Equipped with a sealant kit, you gain the flexibility to drive to a tyre dealer for a replacement or a more lasting repair. However, exercise caution when considering sealant products designed for preventing flat tyres. These products may not function as intended and pose a risk of concealing underlying issues, potentially leading to the operation of a compromised and unsafe tyre. If you’re keen on preventing flats, the best tyre care practices involve maintaining the correct tyre pressure and ensuring your wheels are properly aligned.
Tyre sealants serve as effective temporary solutions for sealing small punctures. Equipped with a sealant kit, you gain the flexibility to drive to a tyre dealer for a replacement or a more lasting repair. However, exercise caution when considering sealant products designed for preventing flat tyres. These products may not function as intended and pose a risk of concealing underlying issues, potentially leading to the operation of a compromised and unsafe tyre. If you’re keen on preventing flats, the best tyre care practices involve maintaining the correct tyre pressure and ensuring your wheels are properly aligned.
Treadwear indicators are essential components built into a tyre’s tread to serve as visual cues regarding tread depth. These indicators are strategically placed at specific intervals around the tyre. As the tyre wears down, these indicators become more visible. Once the tread wears down to the level of these indicators, it’s a clear sign that the tyre has reached a point where replacement is necessary.
Underinflation poses several risks to both the longevity of the tyre and the overall performance of the vehicle. When a tyre is not inflated to the recommended pressure, it is prone to premature wear, reducing its lifespan. Additionally, underinflated tyres contribute to decreased fuel economy, impacting the efficiency of the vehicle. Steering and cornering capabilities are negatively affected, compromising overall safety.
Underinflation poses several risks to both the longevity of the tyre and the overall performance of the vehicle. When a tyre is not inflated to the recommended pressure, it is prone to premature wear, reducing its lifespan. Additionally, underinflated tyres contribute to decreased fuel economy, impacting the efficiency of the vehicle. Steering and cornering capabilities are negatively affected, compromising overall safety.
Alignment ensures that all four tyres are consistently and optimally positioned for optimal contact with the road. This process includes adjustments to caster, camber, and toe angles. Regular alignment checks are advisable, particularly after major suspension adjustments, or if uneven tyre wear is observed, ensuring your vehicle maintains proper handling and tyre longevity.
Tyre balancing is vital for preventing premature wear on suspension components, promoting even tyre wear, and providing a smoother driving experience. Through even weight distribution, balancing minimizes vibrations and enhances overall vehicle performance.
When purchasing tyres, fitting and balancing are complimentary. Wheel balancing involves placing each tyre on a balancing machine, measuring and correcting the wheel/tyre combination imbalance. This ensures an even distribution of weight and addresses any areas requiring adjustment. Wheel alignment, on the other hand, focuses on the angles of the wheels and axles in relation to steering and suspension.
A wheel alignment uses specialised machinery to adjust the angles of your vehicle’s axles and wheels, ensuring they align straight ahead according to manufacturer specifications. Even the slightest misalignment, caused by factors like driving onto a kerb, going through a pothole, or navigating uneven roads, can lead to uneven tyre wear. A comprehensive wheel alignment addresses these angles, optimising tyre performance, and extending their lifespan. Regular alignment checks are crucial to maintain proper vehicle handling and tyre health.
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