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Tyres

At Treads Dunedin we stock all major brands and if we don’t have it we’ll get it for you. We always like to match tyres. This is not possible with many used import vehicles that may still have Japanese domestic tyres fitted, but we can advise on the best replacement tyres for your car.

When to Replace Your Tyres

All tyres have wear indicator strips moulded into the tread across the tyre. When these are showing in the tread it’s time to get new tyres. The law requires that you have a minimum of 1.5 mm tread depth on your tyres. Tyres worn past those tread indicators are an accident waiting to happen. On a wet road tyres with wear at those levels tyres will aquaplane – and that’s like trying to drive on ice. If you are concerned about how much tread is left on your tyres call into Treads Dunedin at 57B King Edward Street in Dunedin. We will check your tyre’s for free.

Wheel Balance

Wheels out of balance cause excessive tyre wear and can damage your car’s suspension and steering. If your car develops a ‘shake’ through the steering as you increase speed it indicates there is a problem. Frequently this type of shaking is a sign you need a wheel balance. We can check and correct your wheel balance in less than half an hour.

Tyre Rotation

Tyres should be rotated every 5-10,000 kilometres to achieve the maximum life. The front tyres, especially on front wheel drive cars, have to work harder than the rear tyres, providing steering, acceleration and the main braking traction. Different vehicles have their own wear characteristics and different roads will cause different wear patterns. Call into our store and we will be only too happy to rotate your tyres and make sure you are driving a safe vehicle.

Tyre Pressure

The wrong tyre pressures will affect the life of your tyres and also the handling of your car. Car suspensions and handling are designed for particular types of tyres and tyre pressures. That’s why it’s important to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. These are normally found either:

  • On the driver’s door or door pillar.
  • Under the bonnet.
  • On the back of the fuel filler cover.

Over-inflated tyres cause the centre part of the tread to wear faster, reduce the tyre ‘footprint’ on the road and compromise the effectiveness of the tyres in emergency braking. Under-inflated tyres increase wear on the tyre shoulders and affect fuel consumption and the handling and ride of the vehicle, especially on winding roads.

Tyres should be checked:

  • When they are cold.
  • Fortnightly.
  • Don’t forget to check the spare.
  • Temporary spares: Some Japanese cars have temporary spares. These are designed as temporary tyres and should not be driven over 80kph or over 80km in distance. These tyres require higher inflation pressures because of their construction.
  • Bring your vehicle into Treads Dunedin and we will check your tyre pressures including the spare for free.

Wheel Alignments

Why do a Wheel Alignment?

Correct wheel alignment is a major determinant of how much life you get out of your tyres. You should have your alignment checked;

  • When fitting new tyres.
  • Every twelve months or 10,000 kilometres, (whichever comes first).
  • After accident repairs or replacement of any steering or suspension parts.

Warning signs that alignment is in need of adjustment include;

  • Irregular tyre wear – on front or rear tyres.
  • Heavy steering.
  • Vehicle wandering and hard to keep in a straight line.
  • Excessive road shock being felt through the steering wheel.
  • Vehicle steering wheel not returning to centre.

Correct Alignment will;

  • Save excessive uneven and premature tyre wear.
  • Save Fuel.
  • Enhance cornering and general handling.
  • Reduce driver fatigue.

The average cost of an alignment:

  • For a car – $90.00 (includes GST).
  • For a RV – $105.00 (includes GST).
  • Classic Vehicle from $135.00
  • For a Truck – POA.
  • Please note that discounts will apply when you buy your tyres from Treads Dunedin.

Puncture Repairs

A puncture is never a good thing. It slows you down and can mean having to buy a new tyre. But it doesn’t have to. That’s where our puncture repair service can help. Simply bring in your flat tyre and we’ll check it over. Then, where possible, we’ll fix it for you professionally and safely (and in line with NZ Standard 5423). Tips to avoid getting punctures:

  • Check the treads on your tyres regularly for imbedded glass, stones or other sharp objects.
  • Make sure your tyres are inflated correctly (including the spare).

Never drive on a flat or partially deflated tyre.


Driving on a flat tyre is not only dangerous, but it makes it far more likely that you’ll need to replace the tyre. So if you get a flat, pull over. Replace it with your spare tyre and bring it in to us as soon as you can.