For any motorist, ensuring tyres are in good condition is crucial for safe and comfortable driving. Tyres bear the vehicle’s weight, provide grip on various road surfaces, and allow for safe braking and cornering. A professional tyre fitting service ensures that tyres are installed correctly, balanced, and meet all safety standards. But if you’re preparing to visit a tyre fitting service, you might be curious about what’s involved in the process. Here’s an overview of what to expect when you go for tyre fitting, from initial inspection to driving away with confidence.
1. Initial Tyre Inspection and Selection
When you arrive at a tyre fitting service, the process usually begins with an inspection of your current tyres. A professional technician will examine the tyres for signs of wear, punctures, or uneven tread wear. They may check the tyre pressure and assess the general condition of each tyre to determine if replacement is needed.
After the inspection, you’ll discuss the type of replacement tyres you need. Most tyre fitting services offer a range of tyres suitable for different driving conditions, including all-season, winter, and performance tyres. If you’re unsure, the technician can recommend tyres based on your driving style, vehicle type, and the climate in your area. Once you’ve chosen the right tyres, the fitting process can begin.
2. Removing the Old Tyres
The first physical step of tyre fitting involves removing the old tyres. The vehicle is lifted on a jack or hoist, and the technician carefully removes the wheel nuts, allowing each wheel to be taken off the vehicle. They will then deflate the tyres and use specialised equipment to separate the tyres from the wheels. This process is done with care to avoid damage to the wheel rims or other components.
3. Wheel Inspection and Cleaning
Before fitting the new tyres, the wheel rims are inspected for any signs of damage. This includes checking for bends, cracks, or other imperfections that could affect tyre performance or compromise safety. Many tyre fitting services also clean the rims to ensure a secure fit with the new tyres, as dirt or rust can prevent the tyre from sealing properly. In cases where wheels are damaged, the technician may recommend repairs or replacements to ensure the new tyres perform optimally.
4. Fitting the New Tyres
Once the wheels are prepared, the new tyres are ready to be fitted. This process requires specialised tyre fitting machines that can mount the tyres onto the wheels without damaging the rubber or the rims. The technician carefully aligns the tyre with the rim and uses the machine to mount it in place. A lubricant is often applied to the edges of the tyre to make fitting easier and to create an airtight seal.
5. Tyre Balancing
After the new tyres are fitted to the wheels, the next crucial step is tyre balancing. Properly balanced tyres help prevent vibrations while driving and reduce wear on the suspension and steering components. During the balancing process, the wheels are mounted on a balancing machine that spins them to determine any weight imbalances. Small weights are then added to the wheel to counterbalance any uneven distribution. This step ensures a smooth ride and improves tyre longevity.
6. Wheel Alignment Check (Optional)
While not always included in standard tyre fitting, many services offer a wheel alignment check as an additional service. Proper wheel alignment is essential for even tyre wear, optimal handling, and safety. Misaligned wheels can cause tyres to wear unevenly, leading to premature replacement. If your tyres show signs of uneven wear or if you’ve noticed your vehicle pulling to one side, it’s wise to consider an alignment check along with tyre fitting. This service adjusts the angles of the wheels to ensure they meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
7. Final Tyre Pressure Check
Once the new tyres are fitted and balanced, the technician will check and adjust the tyre pressure to meet the recommended levels. Proper tyre pressure is essential for safe handling, fuel efficiency, and optimal tyre lifespan. The correct pressure varies depending on the vehicle and the type of tyre, and the technician will have this information to ensure the tyres are inflated to the right level.
8. Tightening and Final Safety Check
Before you’re ready to leave, the technician will perform a final safety check. This includes tightening the wheel nuts to the specified torque level, ensuring that the tyres are securely mounted, and checking for any last adjustments. Some tyre fitting services even offer a “free re-torque” service, where they recommend returning after 50-100 miles to double-check that the wheel nuts remain tight, as they may settle slightly after initial installation.
9. Recycling of Old Tyres
Most professional tyre fitting services will responsibly dispose of your old tyres. Used tyres can’t simply be thrown away due to their environmental impact, but they can often be recycled or repurposed. Some tyre fitting centres partner with recycling organisations that turn old tyres into products like playground surfaces or construction materials. Be sure to ask about tyre recycling, as it’s an environmentally-friendly aspect of the service.
10. Post-Fitting Advice
After the tyre fitting is complete, the technician may offer advice on how to care for your new tyres. This could include tips on checking tyre pressure regularly, rotating tyres periodically, and watching for signs of wear. Following these tips can help extend the life of your new tyres and maintain safety on the road.
Conclusion
A tyre fitting service offers far more than just replacing old tyres with new ones; it’s a comprehensive process that ensures your vehicle is safe, balanced, and ready for the road. From the initial inspection to the final safety check, every step is aimed at optimising your vehicle’s performance and your driving experience. Whether you’re in for a routine tyre replacement or an emergency flat tyre fix, knowing what to expect from a tyre fitting service can make the process smoother and give you confidence in your vehicle’s safety and handling.
So, the next time you need new tyres, consider what’s involved in the tyre fitting process and appreciate the level of care that goes into each step.