Category Archives for "Tyre Maintenance"

Five tyre maintenance tips to keep you safe on Queensland roads

Maintain your tyres with these simple checks

Whether you only drive the school run daily or travel thousands of kilometres every week for work, your vehicle’s tyres are one of the most important parts of it. Possibly the most important – without tyres, you wouldn’t get anywhere. They are integral to your vehicle’s handling, its fuel consumption, and your safety.

These five tyre tips will help you get the most out of your tyres, helping them last longer, maintain handling ability, and keep you safer.

Check your tyres’ tread regularly

A tyre’s tread removes water and helps your car grip the road. The legal minimum tread in Queensland is 1.5mm. At no point on the tyre must the tread be shallower. However, you don’t really want to allow a tyre’s tread to get down to the minimum. Experts recommend that you should replace a tyre before the tread gets down to 3mm.

Using a 20 cent coin, you can check the depth on your tyres easily. Simply slip the coin’s edge into the treads, and if the tread reaches the platypus’s bill, you’re down to 3mm.

How much difference does the tread really make?

Here are the braking distances at three different tread depths:

• At 8mm tread depth, a car stops in 25.9 metres
• At 3mm tread depth, a car stops in 31.7 metres
• At 2mm tread depth, a car stops in 39.5 metres

Rotate your tyres

Whatever your driving style, your tyres will wear differently according to their position on the vehicle. Front tyres wear faster on the leading edge when cornering, while rear tyres will wear more evenly.

Protect your quality tyres with good rotation, rotating between axles and corners every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometres, and your tyres will last longer.

Ensure your wheels are aligned

If your tyre tread is unevenly worn, your steering is pulling, your car is vibrating, or your steering wheel is crooked when you are driving, it is time to get your wheels aligned. Properly aligned tyres are essential to achieve better fuel consumption and maintain good handling.

Ensure your tyres are balanced

Like properly aligned wheels, properly balanced tyres will ensure your drive is straight and true. Poorly balanced tyres wear faster and decrease the handling ability while driving. If your steering wheel vibrates while you are driving, it is likely that your tyres have become misbalanced.

Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated

Driving on incorrectly inflated tyres is asking for trouble. Underinflated tyres will cause wear on both inner and outer shoulders, while overinflated tyres will cause wear along the centre of the tyre (see our article “What does this tyre wear and tear mean?” for more information).

Checking your tyre pressure once each month should be enough to prevent damage from improperly inflated tyres, though a weekly check is best. You’ll find the proper inflation measures to use on the tyre placard on the inside of the door jamb.

When will you need a tyre specialist?

It’s easy to do a weekly tyre check yourself. Check the treads, look for uneven wear (and cuts, grazes and lumps on the tyre sidewall), and check the tyre pressure. If you notice any signs of poorly aligned wheels or improperly balanced tyres, or that the wear is uneven, then you should take your vehicle to a tyre specialist.

To get the best from your tyres and make sure that you are safe on the road, never take a risk with tyres. It is better to be safe than sorry. If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your tyres and you are in the Brisbane area, contact Darra Tyres.

Keeping your family and fleet safe on the road,

Kevin Wood

Should you change your tyres to run flat tyres?

The benefits and disadvantages of run flat tyres

You may have heard of run flat tyres, and possibly be considering replacing your current tyres with run flat tyres at your next tyre change. This article will help you make the best decision.

What is the advantage of run flat tyres?

If you have ever suffered a puncture while driving, you’ll know what a frightening experience it can be, especially if you are driving at high speed. The sudden loss of pressure can lead to sudden and even complete loss of control.

If you manage to safely bring your vehicle to a stop with a flat tyre hampering your handling, the danger isn’t over. Now you need to change your flat tyre for the spare: a dangerous roadside operation on a clear day, but even more so at night, in the rain, and when visibility is limited.

Run flat tyres are designed to keep the sidewall intact should the tyre be punctured. Even at zero pressure, a run flat tyre should maintain its shape. The reinforced sidewall will retain its rigidity for long enough to allow you to reach a tyre shop or get home – generally as far as 80 kilometres, though the actual distance depends on make and model of the run flat tyre.

How do run flat tyres work?

Run flat tyres work in one of two ways: either they are made with a strengthened sidewall, or with an internal support ring. They work well, too, though they have proved to be unpopular with many drivers. Because of this, very few vehicle manufacturers fit them as standard.

What are the disadvantages of run flat tyres?

There are four main reasons for the unpopularity of run flat tyres:

1.     Run flat tyres are not available for all vehicles

Usually, a vehicle manufacturer will build in a run flat system into its models. If your vehicle was supplied with run flats, then you won’t have a problem. However, if it does not have the run flat system built in, you may not be able to fit run flats on your existing wheels.

2.     Fuel economy is affected by run flats

Run flat tyres are heavier than ordinary tyres. This increases the rolling resistance and means your fuel consumption will be higher. While you won’t need to carry a spare (saving you money and space), the higher fuel consumption means higher fuel bills.

3.     Run flat tyres may not get you home

The distance that a run flat tyre can take you after a puncture is limited to a maximum of 80 kilometres. This may not be enough to get you home or to the nearest service station or tyre shop. Plus, you will be limited to travelling at no faster than 80 km/h.

4.     You might not be able to buy your favourite brand

Finally, because of their lack of popularity, some brands don’t manufacture run flat tyres. You may not be able to buy your favoured brand or in the size you need.

To use run flat tyres, you need a TPMS

If you are considering changing to run flat tyres, you will also need a TPMS – a tyre pressure monitoring system. This is a system that alerts the driver to a sudden loss of tyre pressure. Older vehicles are unlikely to have this fitted.

One final complication is that if you do have run flat tyres fitted and the TPMS warning light signals a loss of pressure, it does not necessarily mean that you have suffered a puncture. You may simply be driving in zero-pressure conditions. If you are not aware of the reason for the warning light, you may drive faster than you should on your run flat tyres.

In summary

For many drivers, run flat tyres take away the fear of being stranded at the side of the road trying to change a flat tyre in poor weather conditions while other vehicles are speeding past. This is a big advantage. However, whether they are the right choice for you depends on many other factors – such as the make, model and age of your vehicle, and the type of driving you do normally.

Whatever the reason for your tyre change, here in Brisbane drivers know they can trust Darra Tyres to give the best advice and help them make the best choice. We understand that all drivers are unique, and this means your choice of tyres will be unique, too.

For all your tyre needs, contact Darra Tyres – we’ll see you right.

Keeping your family and fleet safe on the road,

Kevin Wood

Why you should check your spare tyre if it rains in Brisbane

When was the last time you checked your spare?

The weather here in Brisbane can bring calamitous conditions to roads. The seasonal storms we have in Brisbane are particularly dangerous for drivers, because of their effect on tyres. Slippery roads make handling more difficult and increase braking distances. Not surprisingly, there are more accidents in the rain and on wet roads than there are when the weather is dry.

Rain is also bad news for tyre life. When tyre rubber is wet, it is damaged more easily. This makes it more likely that you’ll suffer a puncture. This is especially true if your tread is near the minimum legal tyre tread depth. In fact, it has been estimated that the likelihood of a puncture is doubled if you only have 10% of useful tread remaining on your tyre.

When did you last check your spare tyre?

Your spare tyre may be the most important you have. If you do suffer a puncture, a well-maintained spare tyre will get you to the nearest tyre shop or back home. If it’s flat, it won’t. A flat tyre is about as much use as a chocolate teapot.

Most drivers we meet in our Darra Tyres shop have never checked their spare tyre. If your vehicle is more than five years old, it’s likely that your spare tyre won’t be much use to you. All tyres have a limited life, even if they aren’t used. You can read more in our blog, “How do you know how old your tyres are and if they need changing?”

Our advice is to check your spare tyre at least once per month. Make sure that it is fully inflated and doesn’t have any debris in the tread. If one of your driving tyres is punctured, you’ll be pleased you took five minutes out of your busy life to make sure the spare is right.

What if you don’t have a spare tyre?

Some vehicles today don’t carry a spare. Instead, the manufacturer supplies a can of magic gunk to make an emergency repair. That’s all well and good until you suffer a real bad puncture. If you’ve been running your tyres flat, there’s a good chance that the sidewall will rip – especially in the wet.

That can of gunk isn’t going to fix a tyre with a bad puncture. You won’t be getting home until you’ve had the tyre replaced roadside – and that’s going to be more expensive than if you had been able to get to a tyre shop.

Prevention is better than cure

This is something my dad used to tell me all the time. It’s as true today as it was all those years ago. If you do what is necessary to prevent a catastrophe, then you won’t need to do what is necessary to recover from that catastrophe. Now, you may not think that a puncture is a catastrophe. Tell that to the driver who gets a puncture in torrential rain, spends 10 minutes getting the damaged tyre off, replaces it with the spare, and then finds the spare is flat when he takes the car jack off.

Here’s our advice to help avoid punctures when it’s wet (and when it isn’t):

• Check your tyres once per week. Make sure they are free from debris and inflated to correct pressure.
• If you notice any cuts, grazes, bulges or flat patches, take your tyre to a tyre shop to have it inspected.
• Once per month, do the same check to your spare tyre.

Simple, isn’t it? A five-minute check once every week could save you from a whole heap of bother on the road. When you’re already late for that important meeting, or to collect your kids. In the middle of a storm that would make Noah nervous. When you forgot your coat.

Prevention is better than cure. If you spot signs of damage on your tyres, or if the tread is starting to wear thin, or you have uneven wear, bring your vehicle into our Darra Tyres shop today.

For all your tyre needs, contact Darra Tyres – we’ll see you right.

Keeping your family and fleet safe on the road,

Kevin Wood

10 questions that Queensland drivers frequently ask about their tyres

All you need to know about your tyres – or is it?

We get asked many questions about tyres. These are the 10 most common, with the answers you need.

1.    My tyre placard mentions particular tyres and rims. Can I fit different to this?

Yes, you can; but the tyre/rim combination and width/diameter must meet certain requirements. The amount that the width and diameter may change by depends upon the type of vehicle. There are different rules for 4WDs, passenger vehicles, etc. You can learn more by reading the Minor Modifications publication (PDF, 414 KB).

2.    Can I increase my vehicle’s ride height?

There are various ways that you could increase the ride height of your vehicle. These include by increasing your vehicle’s tyre dimension, lifting its suspension, or by using body blocks. The amount you can raise it depends on which methods or combination of methods you use to do so. The most that you can raise your ride height by for each single method is:

• 50mm by increasing the tyre dimension
• 75mm if raising by lifting the suspension
• 50mm by using body blocks

However, if you are using a combination of these methods, the most your vehicle can be raised is 150mm.

Just to complicate things a little more, these limits are not applicable to all vehicles. They are a good guideline, but for the exact raise you can make to your vehicle you should examine the National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification (PDF, 1.93 MB).

3.    Can I use low-profile tyres with a wider diameter on my vehicle?

This is possible to do, but you must make sure that the overall diameter, load rating and speed rating comply with legal requirements. Often, low-profile tyres will be fitted to larger diameter rims; this maintains the overall diameter to requirements. Once more, you should refer to the National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification (PDF, 1.93 MB).

4.    What is the maximum tyre diameter increases and decreases I can make to my 4WD?

With some 4WD vehicles, you may increase tyre diameter by up to 50mm and decrease it by up to 26mm, from the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended diameter. These are:

• 4WD passenger vehicles specifically designed for off-road use
• 4WD goods vehicles and their 2WD equivalents, if the chassis and running gear are essentially the same as the 4WD versions

However, all-wheel drive vehicles (AWDs) are not included in these. The Minor Modifications publication (PDF, 414 KB) provides the information you need.

5.    Can I lower the speed rating of my tyres?

You may want to lower the speed rating of your tyres, and this is possible, providing the tyres meet certain minimums. These are:

• 140km/h for off-road passenger vehicles
• 180km/h for other cars or car derivatives carrying up to nine adult passengers in seated positions
• 120 km/h for other motor vehicles

There is an exception to all these rules: if your vehicle has a lower top speed than the above, then the tyre may not have a speed rating above the vehicle’s top speed.

6.    Can I fit different brand tyres to the same axle?

Yes, though it is preferable to fit the same brand. However, what you cannot do is fit tyres with different construction (e.g. cross-ply, steel radials, textile radials, etc.).

We also recommend that tread patterns should be the same on tyres fitted on the same axle, though there is no legal requirement to do so.

7.    How often should I change my tyres?

Tyres last far longer today than they used to. However, when they need changing depends on many factors, such as:

• The type of road surface on which they are driven
• The wear and tear suffered
• The kilometres covered by the tyre
• Irrespective of any of the above, the age of the tyre

Most tyres will last between 60,000 and 80,000 kilometres. However, manufacturers recommend that tyres should be changed every five years at a minimum, due to age degradation of the rubber.

8.    How often should I check my tyres?

We recommend that you carry out four tyre safety checks at least once per month, and more often if you drive every day. If you are making a long journey, you should also carry these checks out. These four essential checks are:

• Tyre pressure
• Condition of the tyre wall
• Tread depth
• All the above on the spare

9.    Should I change all four tyres are the same time?

If you rotate your tyres, the wear and tear on them should be equal. If this is the case, you will probably need to change all four tyres at the same time. However, if not all four tyres need to be changed it is always best to change the tyres on the same axle simultaneously. This will ensure that handling and grip is uniform on the same axle, which will improve your safety on the road.

10. What is the danger of driving on worn tyres?

If you drive on worn tyres, you could be given a hefty fine. However, this should not be your main concern. Worn tyres provide less grip and traction. Your handling will be worse, and your braking distances will be longer. Worn tyres are a big contributor to road accidents and fatalities in Australia.

Do you have a question about your tyres? Are you unsure whether they are legal or if they should be changed? For the answers to all your tyre questions, contact Darra Tyres.

Keeping your family and fleet safe on the road,

Kevin Wood

Tractor tyres: are you getting the best out of yours?

Tips to make your tractor tyres perform better and last longer

As a farmer, do you pay the same level of attention to your tractor tyre pressures as you do your oil and lubricant levels, or do you trust your luck? Underinflation can damage your tyres and your tractor. A couple of minutes spent checking and correcting your tyre pressures before you go into the field could save you a hatful of dollars.

How does running incorrectly inflated tractor tyres affect your costs?

It’s hard enough making money as a farmer, but habitually forgetting to check your tractor tyre pressures is just like throwing money away. Neglecting to pump up your tyres will lead to pumping up your costs. You’ll use more fuel, and the damage that could be caused to your tyres’ sidewalls will shorten their useful life.

Tractor tyres are designed to keep a certain shape. If you incorrectly inflate your tyres, the tyre will become misshaped (either overinflated or underinflated):

• Underinflation leads to several issues, including cracking of the sidewall, bead cracking, and torn lugs
• Overinflation results in a smaller footprint, a less stable ride, increased soil compaction, and more rapid wear

With new tractor tyres costing thousands of dollars, a regular two-minute pressure check is a cheap insurance policy.

Why do farmers neglect their tyre pressures?

Some experts think that a failure to run a tractor with the correct tyre pressure is due to laziness. I think it’s more complicated than this.

There are a lot of factors you need to consider when maintaining the correct air pressure in a working tractor’s tyres. You need to consider:

• The weight of attachments
• The tractor’s split weights
• Loads on the drawbar
• The task being done
• Tractor speed

A simple miscalculation can mean the tyres are not inflated correctly, and lead to the damage outlined above. For example, let’s say that your tractor tyre’s recommended capacity is 4,000kg at a specific air pressure. If you run the tyre at, say, 10psi or 20psi under that recommended pressure fully loaded, you will affect the performance of the tyre and the tractor. A flatter tyre has a smaller load capacity.

Do you check your tyre pressures correctly?

A common mistake that can lead to incorrect inflation is checking tractor tyre pressures when the tyre has been warmed up, after it has been working. Warm tyres will show a higher inflation pressure. When you come to work the tractor from cold, the tyres will likely be underinflated. You should always check your tyre pressures before you start your tractor working.

The curse of the front end loader

Front end loaders are common today. They are also responsible for a lot of the tyre wear we see.

Front end loaders put a lot of pressure on the front axle. If the tyre is not correctly inflated and adjusted for the load, it can quickly be damaged and fail.

The mistake of not inflating for the job at hand

Another common mistake is forgetting to alter tyre pressures according to the job the tractor is doing; for example, when you are running a dual configuration when seeding, and then forget to adjust the tyre pressures when running a single configuration during fertilising.

The mistake of adding water as ballast

Some farmers add water to tubed tyres to act as ballast, but doing so to tubeless tyres is likely to cause you some serious issues.

In a tubeless tyre, the water comes into direct contact with the rim. The resulting rust weakens the fabric of the wheel. In addition, using water as ballast on radial tyres reduces their effectiveness because you reduce the flexible nature of the tyre – and traction reduces.

How to get longer life from your tractor tyres

The best tyre tips I can give you to get the best performance from your tractor tyres and your tractor are:

• Make it routine to check your tyre pressures before you start working with your tractor
• Inflate the tyres to the correct pressure for the load to be carried and the job to be done
• Keep the tyres clean
• Wash off caked mud, oil, diesel and petrol
• Never ballast tubeless tractor tyres with water

Finally, if you can’t be sure of what pressures you should be running your tractor tyres at for different applications and with different loads, contact Darra Tyres. We’ll be pleased to share our tyre knowledge and expertise with you.

Keeping your family and fleet safe on the road,

Kevin Wood

Five things all drivers should know about their tyres

Key tyre knowledge to save your pocket and your life

Your tyres are all that stands between you and the road. You may believe it is your driving skill that is the reason you avoided that fool in the road a couple of weeks ago, but don’t ignore the important part your tyres played in the success of your emergency manoeuvre.

Tyres are integral to your comfort and safety on the road. They are the main component in smooth cornering, an imperative element in braking, and they handle the entire weight of your vehicle, passengers and load. That’s why good drivers learn to ‘feel’ their tyres. They listen to them. They check their tyres regularly.

Here are five things that you should know about your tyres.

1.    Tread depth matters

The minimum tread depth in Queensland is 1.5mm, but experts recommend replacing tyres if the tread depth is less than 3mm. This is because tread depth saves lives. In wet weather, the distance travelled when braking with a tread depth of 1.5mm can be as much as nearly 50% more than with a tread depth of 3mm. That could be the difference between life and death – and the extra braking distance can be equally dangerous on dry roads.

2.    Incorrect tyre pressure is a cost and a killer

Poorly inflated tyres cause uneven wear, meaning your tyres will need replacing more often. That’s a cost that is easily avoided by checking your tyre pressures regularly. But this may not be the biggest cost of driving on poorly inflated tyres. When underinflated tyres get hot, they are more prone to blowouts – and at high speed, this could be a killer.

At best, poorly inflated tyres will use more fuel, wear quicker, and cost you more money. At worst, they could cost you your life.

3.    Tyre pressures should be checked cold

You’ll find the correct pressure for your tyres on the inside of the door jamb and/or in your vehicle owner’s manual. These tyres pressures are based on cold tyres, so, if you check your tyre pressures when warm, the check becomes almost useless.

Even a short drive will increase the heat in your tyres and raise the tyre pressure. Accurate readings can only be taken before you drive anywhere, and best after a couple of hours of standing idle.

4.    Uneven wear provides important clues

Uneven wear on your tyres provides big clues to underlying problems. It could be that your tyres are not properly balanced, or that your wheels are out of alignment. Poor tyre pressure creates different wear patterns, and poor suspension also causes uneven wear.

If you notice uneven wear on your tyres, it is best to take your vehicle to a tyre shop to get your tyres, wheels and suspension checked.

5.    Understand the feel, sight and sound of tyres

When driving, take note of the sound and feel your tyres give you. A little road noise is to be expected, but if you hear something out of the ordinary, it could be a sign that a tyre is punctured or has been damaged.

The same is true of vibrations while driving. It may be that you are on a really rough road, but if the vibrations continue on smooth tarmac then you may have a problem with the tyre – though it could also be caused by the wheel or faulty suspension.

The best thing to do if you notice any of the above is to stop and check your tyres. Check for wear, tyre pressure, and cracks in the sidewall, which could be caused by age, debris on the road, or kerbing. A crack or blister could be a sign that you are about to have a blowout. Change the tyre for the spare, and get to the nearest tyre shop as soon as possible.

Finally, check your tyres regularly. At least once a month. Better still, once a week. Best of all, before every journey you make.

For the best tyre service in Brisbane and a commitment to your safety within your budget, contact Darra Tyres today.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

Why savvy drivers buy premium tyres in Brisbane

Four big advantages of buying the best tyres you can afford

Tyres. Expensive pieces of must-have equipment for your vehicle. Without them, you won’t get very far. However, when it comes to the need to replace your tyres, you may be tempted to go for the cheapest set possible. You’ll save a fair few dollars right off the bat. But are they really a saving in the long term?

As strange as it may seem, cheaper brand tyres may end up costing you more in the long run. They may also compromise your safety, reduce performance, and affect the comfort of your drive.

In this article, you’ll learn why savvy drivers in Brisbane choose premium brand tyres over their cheaper competition.

1.    Premium brand tyres can save on fuel

Most premium brand tyres are more efficient on fuel than the cheaper brands. They are designed to offer less road resistance (while maintaining traction), and this lower resistance translates to lower fuel consumption. You’ll travel further on a single tank of fuel. That’s a saving direct into your pocket every time you take a trip out.

2.    Premium tyres give shorter braking distances

It can be super sunshine one minute and then the roads can be awash with torrential rainwater here in Queensland. Premium tyres have benefitted from hundreds of millions of dollars spent on research and development, and tend to offer far shorter braking distances in all conditions. When it’s wet, that could be the difference between a costly accident and a near miss.

3.    Premium tyres offer a better driving experience

The highly developed tread patterns on premium brand tyres, better quality rubber compounds and years of development have resulted in better traction on the road. This adds up to a smoother more satisfying drive, better handling round corners, and a more comfortable driving experience. You’ll notice the difference even on short journeys, but on long-distance drives (or the annual road trip in Queensland or across Australia) that extra comfort can be the difference between an evening with back pain and a relaxing night’s sleep.

4.    Premium tyres last longer

A friend of mine was once made redundant, and as part of his redundancy package he had to attend a number of courses. One was on clothes. He was asked how much he spent on his shirts. He replied that each one cost around $30. The instructor said that he would be better to spend twice as much on them.

When he asked why, the instructor said, “They will last twice as long, fit and feel better, and give a better impression.” She could have been talking about tyres.

Premium brand tyres last longer. They are made of premium quality rubber compounds, and benefit from the best in technical development. Quality isn’t cheap, but it is usually worth the extra money you spend.

In summary

It can be tempting to save a few dollars when replacing a worn tyre, but the initial saving could be dwarfed by the eventual cost. It is likely that you’ll compromise on performance and safety, use more fuel, and need to replace your cheaper tyre sooner.

Premium brands spend hundreds of millions each year on research and development. The result of all this engineering, testing and re-engineering is a quality product made with quality materials. Premium brand tyres are definitely worth the price. That’s why we’ll always recommend them.

If you are on a restricted budget, our advice is to buy the very best tyre your pocket can stand. When it comes to safety drive comfort and long-term costs, it’s the very best advice we can give.

For the best tyre service in Brisbane and a commitment to your safety within your budget, contact Darra Tyres today.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

What does the tread wear on truck tyres tell a fleet manager?

5 types of tread wear and how to correct them

Your fleet depends on their tyres. The more wear they suffer, the more fuel your trucks will use. Irregular tread wear makes handling more difficult and lengthens braking distances, and this makes your trucks less safe – risking the lives of drivers, other road users and pedestrians.

What causes irregular tread wear?

There are many reasons tyres wear irregularly. On steering axles, you’ll often find that tyres wear more on one shoulder (most commonly the nearside shoulder) as road cambers, cornering, and roundabouts take their toll.

On drive axles, tyres tend to wear faster on the inner edge of inner tyres. Under- or overinflation also causes irregular tread wear, as does a poor wheel alignment.

5 types of tread wear and how to correct them

Here are the five types of irregular tread wear that your truck tyres might suffer, with likely cause and corrective measures you should take.

1.    Tread wear in the centre

If your tyre tread is worn along the centre of the tyre, the most likely cause is overinflation. However, it may also be caused by mismatched tyres and rims, or by the high torque on drive axles.

Make sure that the correct tyres are applied for the rims used, and ensure that the tyre pressure is adjusted to the recommended pressure according to location and load.

2.    Tread wear on both shoulders

This may also be caused by incorrect matching of tyres and rims, but is more likely caused by underinflation.

Once more, check to ensure the tyres and rims match, and adjust inflation pressure accordingly.

3.    Tread wear on one shoulder

Should a truck’s tyre tread be worn on one shoulder, there are several possible causes:

• Excessive toe or camber, caused by misalignment
• Non-parallel axles
• Bent axle
• Incorrect tyre and wheel assembly
• Severe operating conditions

In this case, it is important to identify the cause of the tyre wear and correct any mechanical faults. If the tread wear is not too severe, it may be possible to turn the tyre on the rim.

4.    Tread wear is diagonal

Diagonal tread wear also has many possible causes:

• Dismounting of tyre and wheel assembly to the trailer
• Mismatched twins
• Driving at high speed when empty
• Improper bearing adjustment
• Toe-out alignment

Identify the fault that is causing the irregular tread wear, and correct it. If the wear is not too severe, the tyre may be turned on the rim. If the tyre wear is caused by driving style, some driver education will be necessary.

5.    Tread wear is in flat spots

Flat spots on the tyre are usually caused by poor driving technique, with sharp braking causing wheels to lock and wear quickly in patches. However, it may also be that the truck’s braking system needs adjusting – for example, locking brakes may be caused by the incorrect adjustment of trailer brake controls.

Drivers should be reminded of driving technique and to avoid harsh braking, and braking systems should be checked and corrected.

Turning the tyre on the rim

Turning the tyre on the rim can extend the life of a tyre and reduce tyre costs. However, it must be done early enough so that wear is equalised. If the difference in the tread is 3mm or greater between shoulders, you should turn the tyre.

Wear on the sidewall could also be a sign that the tyre should be turned. If the lettering or sidewall indicator is disappearing, you should have the tyre checked to ensure that it is safe to turn.

At Darra Tyres, we provide a 24/7 commercial outside service, outside fitting, and truck callout service, in addition to our on-site services. To discover why so many businesses in Brisbane put their faith in our technicians, contact Darra Tyres today.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

What does this tyre wear and tear mean?

Seven symptoms of wear and tear and how to correct them

When a customer brings a damaged tyre to us, we can tell the cause from the type of wear and tear we see. Most tyre tread damage is caused by driver error and poor tyre maintenance. In this article, you’ll learn the seven signs of tyre wear and tear, what they mean, and how to avoid unnecessary wear and tear in the future.

Tyre wear and tear #1: Wearing on both tyre edges

If you notice wear on both inner and outer shoulders of your tyre, it’s most likely caused by underinflation. You’ll suffer from higher fuel consumption because of increased rolling resistance. As if this isn’t bad enough, your tyre will heat up faster, and overheating could cause the tyre to fail.

The solution is to check your tyre pressure regularly, and ensure you keep your tyres inflated to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tyre pressure.

Tyre wear and tear #2: Wearing in the centre of the tyre

If your tyre’s tread is wearing faster along its centre, then this means that it is overinflated. This will affect your vehicle’s braking and handling.

To ensure that your tyres are not overinflated, check the air pressure when the tyre is cold, and let air out until the pressure gauge reads the correct pressure measurement.

Tyre wear and tear #3: Uneven wear

There are two reasons your tyre may be wearing unevenly. The first is that it is overinflated, as with wearing in the centre line of the tyre described above. It may also be that your wheels are poorly aligned. If you have checked your tyre’s air pressure and found it to be correctly inflated, you should take your vehicle to a tyre specialist to check and correct your wheel alignment.

Tyre wear and tear #4: Scalloped and shaped wear

If the wear on your tyres is scalloped, cupped or dipped, the most likely reason is that your wheels are poorly aligned, though your vehicle may also be suffering from worn or bent suspension parts. This will make for a less comfortable ride, higher fuel consumption and poor handling (especially going into and coming out of bends).

The rear suspension can be adjusted to correct alignment issues, though your vehicle may need a front-end or four-wheel alignment. You’ll need to consult a tyre specialist for an accurate diagnosis and the corrective measure.

Tyre wear and tear #5: Feathered wear at the tyre’s edge

If your tyre is suffering from feathered wear at its inner or outer edge, it is likely to be caused by poor alignment causing erratic friction with the tarmac.

If you notice this type of wear and tear, take your vehicle to a tyre specialist. You’ll need a ‘toe-in’ or ‘toe-out’ realignment.

Tyre wear and tear #6: Damage to the tread of the sidewall

Scrapes, scratches, holes and chunks out of tyres generally happen because of poor driving (for example, kerbing when parking) or poor road conditions.

Most minor damage can be repaired by a tyre specialist, though it may be better to replace the tyre. Before you take the tyre to a specialist, remove it and replace with your spare – the last thing you want to happen is minor damage becoming major damage on the drive to the tyre specialist.

Once the tyre has been repaired or replaced, ensure that it is always correctly inflated. This will help it to resist damage.

Tyre wear and tear #7: Tread wear indicator is showing

Whatever the cause for your tyre’s tread wear indicator to show, it is time to change the tyre.

Take it to a tyre specialist and have the tyre replaced. A good tyre specialist will not only change the worn tyre, but they will also check all tyres and your alignment and balance. When you drive away, you will feel the difference that good tyre-checking and maintenance routine makes to your ride.

Where to take your vehicle for a comprehensive tyre service

The best way to find your local tyre dealers is by an internet search. When searching, make sure you also read the reviews left by customers. Here in Brisbane, come to Darra Tyres – you’ll see reviews of our services on our Darra Tyres Facebook page. Five stars all the way.

For a fantastic, friendly tyre service, contact Darra Tyres.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

7 tyre tips for a successful summer road trip in Queensland

What to do to make sure your tyres don’t harm your holiday

One of Australia’s favourite vacations is the road trip, and as the year progresses through spring and into summer more Queenslanders will be packing their vehicles with their belongings and heading out to explore. Whether travelling into the Outback or interstate, to get the best from them you must prepare well. Whatever you do, don’t neglect your tyres – they are in constant contact with the road, and you’ll need to be confident that they will come to your rescue whatever the circumstance.

Here are seven tyre tips to follow before you set off.

1.    Think about your journey

Consider what journey you are undertaking, the type of road surfaces you will encounter, the distances you will drive, and the conditions in which you might drive. If you plan to drive several thousand kilometres or are likely to encounter rough road conditions, ensure that your tyres have enough life in them. If in doubt, replace them. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

2.    Check your tyre tread

When it comes to tread, size definitely matters. The more tread you have, the more kilometres your tyres have in them, the more grip you’ll have on roads, and the shorter your braking distances will be. The minimum legal tread depth may be 1.6mm, but 3mm is generally considered to be the point where braking distances really start to lengthen.

3.    Check wheel balance and alignment

If your wheels are poorly aligned or incorrectly balanced, it will affect the performance of your vehicle and your tyres. Your vehicle will pull to one side, and your tyres will wear unevenly. You’ll also have a less comfortable ride, and driving will be harder work. Balance and alignment are crucial to your safety on the road. A simple test will ensure you aren’t putting yourself, your passengers and other road users in unnecessary risk.

4.    Don’t forget the spare

A common mistake is neglecting the spare tyre when you’re checking tyres before a road trip. Make sure it is suitable to use, checking tread and sidewalls for cuts and grazes. If you can take two spare tyres, do so – and make sure both are correctly inflated before you set off.

5.    Take a portable pump with you

As you progress on your road trip, you’re likely to travel through different road and weather conditions, and the air pressure in your tyres may vary. Check tyre pressures regularly, and correct them when needed. But what if you’re between petrol stations? A portable tyre pump takes little space and is a worthwhile addition to your road trip kit.

6.    Check your tyres pressures

Tyre inflation matters on the roads around Brisbane, and it matters on road trips.

Keeping your tyres correctly inflated is one of the simplest ways to keep them in good condition and safety on the road. Correctly inflated tyres suffer less damage, aid handling, and prolong tyre life.

A tyre pressure check should be part of your regular tyre routine, and you should always drive with tyres inflated at the recommended pressures unless you need to underinflate for certain terrains. If you do, don’t forget to re-inflate once you are through the obstacle.

7.    Never overload your vehicle

Whatever you do, don’t overload your vehicle. Overloading can cause tyres to overheat, and this can lead to sudden and unexpected tyre failure. You’ll find the maximum load rating on the tyre’s sidewall – don’t forget to check that your spare has the same or greater load rating.

And finally…

If you do suffer a breakdown or tyre problem that you cannot deal with, don’t leave your vehicle. Even though the next town may be close, don’t be tempted to walk. Get your phone out, and make a call. If you’re near Brisbane, call Darra Tyres. Put our number in your phone now (you’ll find it on our contact page). Be prepared for all possibilities, and stay safe on your road trip in Queensland.

If you’re planning a road trip this summer, make sure your black circles are as fit as you are. For the assurance of a professional tyre check,  contact Darra Tyres. We’ll make sure that your tyres and spare are in good condition so you and your family can enjoy your time on the road.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood