How to Look After Your Tyres

Avoid the Kerb

Take care when parking and manoeuvring near kerbs. An impact can damage a tyre’s sidewall or internal structure. Have any bulges, cuts or changes in handling checked by a tyre professional.

Check Your Pressure

Check tyre pressure at least monthly and before long trips, ideally when tyres are cold. Follow your vehicle’s tyre pressure label or owner’s manual, including any adjustments specified for heavier loads.

Balance Matters

Have wheels balanced when fitting replacement tyres. Balancing helps reduce vibration, while correct wheel alignment supports even tread wear. If you notice persistent vibration or uneven wear, arrange an inspection.

Drive Smoothly

Accelerate progressively, brake smoothly and take corners at an appropriate speed. These habits help reduce unnecessary tyre wear and support a more comfortable drive, particularly in regular stop-and-go traffic.

Inspect Frequently

Look over your tyres regularly for cuts, cracks, bulges and uneven wear. Check tread depth across the tyre, and arrange a professional inspection if you notice damage or are unsure about its condition.

Keep Them Clean

Clean your tyres with mild soap and water. Avoid contact with oil, fuel and harsh chemicals that may affect the rubber, and follow the tyre manufacturer’s guidance when choosing cleaning products.

Are Overinflated Tyres Okay?

Tyres should be inflated to the pressure specified for your vehicle and load. Excess pressure can make the ride harsher and cause uneven wear, so check and adjust pressures when the tyres are cold.

Are Underinflated Tyres Okay?

Low pressure can affect handling, increase heat build-up and cause premature wear. It also increases rolling resistance. Inflate to the recommended pressure and have recurring pressure loss investigated.

Tyre Labels Explained

The numbers and letters on a tyre’s sidewall identify its size, construction and load and speed ratings. For example, a tyre marked 205/55 R16 91V contains the following information:

• Tyre width: 205 is the tyre’s nominal width in millimetres.
• Height to width ratio: 55 means the sidewall height is 55% of the tyre’s width.
• Tyre structure: R indicates radial construction. Run-flat capability uses separate manufacturer markings and should be confirmed for the specific tyre.
• Rim diameter: 16 is the wheel diameter in inches that the tyre is designed to fit.
• Load index: 91 is a code identifying the maximum load a tyre can carry under specified conditions.
• Speed rating: V identifies the tyre’s speed capability under specified conditions. It does not override road speed limits.

Always check replacement tyre specifications against your vehicle’s requirements.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

If a tyre pressure warning appears, slow down and stop somewhere safe to check your tyres. Follow your owner’s manual and address any pressure loss or damage before resetting the system. A warning system does not replace regular pressure checks.

How Deep Should My Tyre Tread Be?

In NSW, tyres must have at least 1.5 mm of tread on the surfaces that normally contact the road. Check the tread wear indicators inside the grooves and arrange replacement before the tread reaches its limit. Damage may require replacement sooner.

Can I Drive on a Space Saver Spare Wheel?

A space saver is intended for temporary use only. Follow the speed, distance and fitting restrictions marked on the spare and specified in your owner’s manual. Drive carefully and arrange repair or replacement of the regular tyre promptly.

Book a Service Alto Škoda North Shore

Concerned about tyre wear or pressure loss? Contact our Škoda service centre in Artarmon on 02 8817 4499 to discuss your concerns and arrange a booking.