The Right Fit: Help & FAQs for Tyres & Wheels
Clear answers on tyre sizes, ratings, terrain choices, ordering, delivery, and fitting —
all with South African roads in mind.
TYRE BASICS
Find your size — the right fit matters
Your tyre size is shown on the sidewall (e.g. 205/55 R16) and often on the driver door frame or in the owner’s manual. Getting the size, load, and speed rating right keeps braking, handling and warranty in the green.
How do I read 205/55 R16?
TYRE FUNDAMENTALS
Ratings & codes — know your markings
Those letters and numbers tell you load, speed, and manufacture date. Match the vehicle placard spec (or better).
What do load & speed ratings mean?
Code like 91V = load index 91 (max kg/tyre) + speed symbol V (max safe speed). Match or exceed your door placard/manual.
P-metric vs LT — what’s the difference?
P-metric = passenger/SUV comfort; LT = stronger for heavier loads/rough use. Follow your vehicle placard.
Where do I find the DOM / DOT date code?
Near “DOT” on the sidewall. Last 4 digits are week/year (e.g. 2417 = week 24 of 2017). Sometimes on the inner side.
Sidewall vs door placard vs manual — which is right?
The vehicle placard/manual is the master spec. Sidewall shows tyre capability; fit to the car maker’s spec.
SAFETY & WEAR
When to replace — safety first, always
Worn or damaged tyres increase stopping distance and reduce grip. Replace before problems escalate.
What are the clear replace-now signs?
- Tread depth under 1.6 mm
- Cracks, cuts or bulges in sidewall/tread
- Persistent vibration or pull while driving
SAFETY & WEAR
Rotation, mixing & alignment — keep it safe, keep it smooth
Tyres wear differently front/rear and left/right. Smart rotation and correct alignment keep handling predictable and extend tyre life.
Can I mix brands or tread patterns?
Avoid. If unavoidable, keep identical pairs on the same axle and match size, load and speed ratings. Mixed patterns reduce wet grip.
How often should I rotate my tyres?
About 8,000 km (or at service). Rotate sooner with heavy loads, off-road use or uneven wear.
Balancing vs alignment — what’s the difference?
Balancing fixes vibration (do it on fitment). Alignment sets wheel angles so the car tracks straight and tyres wear evenly.
Warning signs I shouldn’t ignore?
Vibration, pulling, feathered edges, or an off-centre steering wheel. Get an inspection.
TERRAIN & USAGE
Choose your terrain — match tyre to road
Different terrains need different tread. Whether you commute, hit gravel, or go full off-road, pick the pattern that fits your real driving.
How do the main terrain types compare?
- A/T (70/30): mostly tar, some gravel — balanced grip/comfort
- M/T (80/20): serious off-road — mud/rock toughness, louder on tar
- Multi-Terrain (50/50): equal mix of tar and trails — versatile compromise
TERRAIN & USAGE
Driving needs — pick the right compromise
SA roads throw heat, rain, tar and gravel at you. Choose for your real split of daily tar vs weekend trails.
Which tyres work best for SA roads?
Mostly tar with some gravel: A/T (70/30). Equal mix: Multi-Terrain (50/50). Heavy off-road: M/T (80/20).
I tow or carry heavy loads — what should I consider?
Prioritise load index (often LT construction). Set pressures for load; rotate more often.
How do I balance off-road bite vs highway comfort/noise?
More aggressive tread = more bite and more noise/rolling resistance. Choose the mildest tread that still covers your off-road needs.
Wet-weather grip — what matters most?
Correct size, healthy tread depth, and patterns that evacuate water. Mixing patterns or low tread increases aquaplaning risk.
FITMENT & MAINTENANCE
Correct fitment — done right, every time
Good tyres only perform when fitted properly. Correct torque, valves, balancing and alignment protect your car and keep you safe at speed.
What does “done right” include?
- Wheel nuts torqued to spec
- New valves fitted
- Tyres balanced
- Alignment checked (and set if needed)
FITMENT & MAINTENANCE
Checks at fitment — do it right, once
A quick checklist now avoids vibration, uneven wear and warranty headaches.
When should alignment be checked?
After new tyres, after pothole/kerb hits, when the car pulls, or when wear looks uneven.
Do I need balancing with every fitment?
Yes. It reduces vibration and protects suspension. Re-check if vibration appears at a certain speed.
Valves and torque — do they really matter?
Yes. New valves stop slow leaks; proper torque prevents loose wheels or warped discs. Ask for a re-torque after a short run-in.
How do I check tyre age at fitment?
Ask the tech to show the DOT date (4-digit code). Confirm you’re happy with the age before mounting.
ONLINE SHOP & SUPPORT
Online shop & support — what to expect
Order online with clear delivery timelines, secure payment, and fitting at trusted centres nationwide.
How long does delivery take?
Typically 24–72 business hours depending on stock and location. We’ll confirm timing after checkout.
Where can I get my tyres fitted?
Choose a trusted fitment centre at checkout. They handle fitting, balancing and alignment (if selected).
Which payment options are available?
Card (PayGate), Payflex, and EFT. Payments are processed securely with 3-D Secure where applicable.
How do warranties work?
Register your tyres/wheels after purchase for free warranty cover. Keep proof of purchase and follow fitment/maintenance guidelines.
What’s the returns policy?
Products must be unused/unfitted in original condition. Contact support for return authorisation; see full Ts & Cs for timeframes and fees.