Tyrepower|Tyre and wheel Alignment FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is your advice independent?

Yes. All Tyrepower stores are privately owned, independent and not tied to any tyre manufacturer. That means we don’t have to push a particular brand which may not suit you or your car.

Will you match a competitors price?

In the unlikely event that you find a better deal on the same tyre or tyre package, we would welcome the opportunity to beat it. Just contact your local Tyrepower manager with the offer we need to match.

Can I raise or lower the speed rating of my tyres?

Legally yes, however we strongly recommend that you check with your insurance company before you do this.

What is a wheel alignment?

Put simply, wheel alignment is the science of precisely measuring and then positioning the wheels on your car to ensure the least amount of wear to your tyres. When correctly set it will significantly extend the life of your tyres, your car also should handle better, be safer to drive and enjoy greater fuel economy.

Is wheel alignment that important?

Yes! In order to get the best mileage from your tyres regardless of if they are a premium or economy brand, get your wheel alignment or “tracking” checked. It is free to get this check carried out.

When do I need a wheel alignment?

If any of the following occur:

If your steering wheel isn’t straight or your car pulls to either side or wanders on straight roads.
After an encounter with a pothole or kerb.
When you are replacing your tyres.
We recommend a wheel alignment at either twice a year or at 10,000km intervals (whichever comes first) to ensure your vehicle’s safety, to improve handling and to help maximise the life of your tyres.

What is the legal minimum tyre depth?

It is illegal to run a tyre with less than 1.5mm of tread round the entire outer circumference of the tyre. For your safety, we recommend replacing well before the tyre becomes illegal.

Is tyre pressure important?

Tyres are designed to perform with the correct pressure. Incorrect tyre pressure can adversely affect safety, traction, economy, and tyre life. Under-inflated tyres could cost you hundreds of dollars a year due to poor fuel economy.

What tyre pressure should I run?

Always keep tyre pressures at the levels recommended by car manufacturers. These can be found in the handbook or on the tyre placard affixed to your car. Or ask for advice from your Tyrepower branch as some tyre pressures will vary depending on what the vehicle is to be used for.

How often should I check pressures?

Tyre pressure should be checked regularly, especially when undertaking long trips and only when the tyres are cold (because tyre pressures increase as they warm up). And don’t forget the spare tyre. Pressures should be checked with an accurate gauge.

What do those numbers and letters on my tyres mean?

The markings on the sidewall give some important facts about your tyre’s identity and capabilities.

For example, P205/65R15 94V is a code that applies to many popular passenger vehicle makes and models. But what does it all mean? The above code would break down to: 205 indicates the tyre’s section width, in millimeters.
65 indicates the aspect ratio (ratio between the height from the road to the wheel rim, to its width section), sometimes called the profile.
R indicates the tyre is of radial ply construction.
15 indicates the wheel rim diameter, expressed in whole inches.
94 indicates the tyre’s load index, which is a numerical code associated with the maximum weight a tyre can carry, at the speed indicated by its speed rating.
V indicates the speed category for which the tyre has been designed.

What is wheel balancing?

A wheel is out of balance when one section of the wheel is heavier than the rest. A wheel balance redistributes weight around the wheel to extend life of your tyres, increase performance and increase your vehicle’s safety. To balance a wheel, it will be mounted on a balancing machine that spins the tyre and wheel to locate the heavier part, which will then be compensated for by attaching a weight on the opposite side. When combined with a wheel alignment, balanced wheels ensure a smooth ride, maximum tread life and increased vehicle performance.

When do I need my wheels balanced?

If any of the following occur:

If your steering wheel or vehicle is vibrating.
When you are replacing your tyres.
When you are rotating your tyres.

What is the best way to maximise the life of my tyres?

For greatest safety and long life from your tyres:

Always keep tyre pressures at the levels recommended by car manufacturer’s or your Tyrepower store. These can be found in the handbook or on the tyre placard affixed to your car.
Tyre pressures should be checked regularly.
Make sure your wheels are balanced correctly for proper handling and performance.
Regular tyre rotation from front to rear and vice versa will prolong the effective life span of tyres. (around every 10,000 km)
A wheel alignment ensures even tread wear for a longer tyre life and should be checked at least once a year or within 10,000 km.
Valve caps should always be used to maintain pressure and prevent entry of dirt and moisture.