Tyre & Wheel Alignment Maintenance Guide
Keep Your Vehicle Safe With the Right Tyres
Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road, making them one of the most important safety components to maintain.
Choosing the correct tyres is about more than just finding a replacement that fits. The right tyre depends on your vehicle specifications, driving habits, road conditions, and the type of performance you expect.
Regular tyre checks and correct wheel alignment help improve safety, handling, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan.
Signs Your Tyres May Need Attention
Tyre issues can affect how your vehicle handles and how safely it performs on the road.
Common signs your tyres may need attention include:
- Low tread depth or visible wear
- Uneven wear across the tyre surface
- Increased road noise
- Vehicle pulling to one side while driving
- Steering wheel vibration
- Reduced grip in wet conditions
If you notice any changes in how your vehicle drives, it’s worth having your tyres inspected.
Why Tyre Condition Matters
Two of the most important factors in tyre safety are tread depth and tyre pressure.
The tread pattern helps your vehicle maintain grip when braking, accelerating, and cornering, particularly in wet conditions. New Zealand vehicles must meet minimum legal tread requirements for a Warrant of Fitness, but tyres should be monitored regularly rather than waiting until they reach the legal limit.
Tyre pressure also has a major effect on safety, handling, and fuel economy. Over-inflated tyres can affect ride comfort and tyre wear, while under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption and cause tyres to wear faster.
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure helps your tyres perform as designed.
How We Help With Tyres & Wheel Alignment
At Autostop, we can inspect your tyres and check your wheel alignment to help maximise safety and tyre life.
Our tyre services include:
- Tyre condition and tread inspections
- Pressure checks and adjustments
- Tyre supply and fitting
- Wheel balancing
- Wheel alignment checks and adjustments
- Advice on choosing the right tyres for your vehicle
If you’re unsure whether your tyres are still safe, we offer free tyre checks and can provide honest advice on whether they need replacing.
Understanding Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment ensures your vehicle’s wheels are positioned correctly according to manufacturer specifications.
When wheels are out of alignment, it can affect steering control, fuel economy, handling, and how quickly your tyres wear.
Common signs that your vehicle may need a wheel alignment include:
- Vehicle pulling left or right while driving
- Steering wheel not sitting straight
- Difficulty turning or handling
- Vibration through the steering wheel
- Uneven tyre wear
Incorrect alignment can cause tyres to wear unevenly, reducing their lifespan and potentially affecting vehicle safety.
Looking After Your Tyres
Simple tyre maintenance can help improve safety and extend tyre life:
- Check tyre pressures regularly
- Inspect tyres for damage or unusual wear
- Rotate tyres when recommended
- Have alignment checked if you hit a significant pothole or kerb
- Replace tyres before they become unsafe
Tyres should be checked between Warrant of Fitness inspections, as tread wear and damage can occur at any time.
Need Your Tyres Checked?
Not sure if your tyres are still safe or whether your vehicle needs a wheel alignment?
Our team can inspect your tyres, check their condition, and provide honest advice on the best option for your vehicle.
Your Trusted Johnsonville Automotive Specialists
Autostop Johnsonville has been keeping Wellington vehicles safe and reliable for over 40 years. From WOF inspections and servicing to diagnostics and repairs, we provide honest advice and quality workmanship.
Come and See Us
2 Disraeli Street,
Johnsonville,
Wellington,
6037
Monday – Friday
7:00am – 6:00pm
