How often do you think about your tyres? Like most people, you probably don't think about your tyres until it's too late. Whether it's a damaged tyre or worn tread, many indicators tell us it's time for new tyres. However, getting into the habit of regularly checking your tyres can save you from needing emergency roadside assistance. Read our article signs your tyres need servicing or replacing so you know when it's time.
When it is time for new tyres, this article can be a great help. As tyres experts, we can help you find the right tyre at the right price, so contact us if you'd like further information.
The benefits for replacing your tyres in a timely manner include:
Increased fuel efficiency - a worn, old tyre seriously detracts from your vehicle's fuel economy.
Increased comfort - fewer bumps and noise.
Increased safety - newer tyres contribute to the handling of your vehicle in all road and weather conditions. Better handing leads to more control, and more control increases your safety.
We understand that it can be a bit overwhelming to decide on what tyre is right for you, especially in a tyre store with dozens of brands and styles, not to mention prices. To take the stress and confusion away from the experiences, we've put together these great tips for buying tyres in Melbourne:
1. Do you need new tyres?
The first thing you need to know is if you actually need new tyres. It might sound obvious, but often we don't know if our tyres are performing as they should or need replacing.
As mentioned above, there are certain indicators which tell us our tyres need replacing (or servicing), they include:
uneven or excessive tread wear
cracks
bulges
if they are ten years - or more - old.
So, perform a regular inspection of your tyres and look out for the above.
Not sure if your tyres need replacing or just a service? Then contact us, and we can perform an inspection for you.
2. What condition is your vehicle in?
Signs of uneven wear can indicate that there is something wrong with your vehicle. The problems could be a suspension issue or misalignment.
Uneven wear is when one bit or side of your tyre is more worn than the rest. When there are no issues with your vehicle, your tyres should wear evenly.
If you were to replace your tyres without addressing the issues with your vehicle, the same thing would happen, and you will have wasted your money. So, it's always a good idea to have your vehicle's alignment check by a professional - either a mechanic or tyre expert.
If you'd an assessment of your vehicle, contact us.
3. Consult your vehicle's owners manual.
Every vehicle comes with a manual from the manufacturer that tells you what type and size tyres are best suited to your vehicle. If you can't locate the manual, you should find an information placard attached to (or painted on) a part of the inside of your car. Places to check include the inside of your glove compartment, the inside of your boot or the edge of a door.
If you have misplaced your manual, it's a good idea to replace it. Contact the manufacturer or deanship from which you bought the vehicle.
4. Check out your tyre's code.
Have you ever notice the letters/numbers on the sidewall of tyres? That's a legally required code that tells us information about the tyre. It is also in case there is a recall.
It can be challenging to interpret the code, so here is a straightforward guide:
The first part of the code is a letter or two telling us what kind of vehicle the tyre is for. For example, "P" stands for passenger vehicles.
Following the letters, you'll see a two-digit number which indicates the ratio of width to height.
In most cases, the next thing you'll see is the letter "R". R sands for "radial construction".
Following the "R", you may see two or three numbers. As it's not required by law, they may not be on your tyre. However, these numbers indicate the tyre's load index number.
After these numbers (or after the "R" depending on the tyre), there will be a letter. The letter is the speed rating, so crosscheck with your owner's manual to ensure it's right for you.
Following your speed rating letter, usually, you'll see two letters M/S or M+S - this stands for mud and snow.
There can be more digits and letters, but they are only really relevant if your tyres are involved in a recall. You can, however, ask a tyre professional for more information if you wish.
Here at DD Tyres, we can tell you more about the codes on your tyres and find you tyres that are suited to your vehicle.
Whether you visit us or another centre, don't be shy to ask questions so you can get to know more about the features and code of your new tyres.
To read the rest of helpful tips, click here.
We hope you have found our tips on buying tyres in Melbourne helpful.
If you don't have a regular tyre supplier or need someone you can trust, give us a call at DD Tyres- the truck, van and ute tyre specialists.