What is a Tyre Puncture?

tyre puncture occurs when a sharp object, like a nail or glass, pierces the tyre’s tread area, causing it to deflate. This loss of air pressure leads to a flat tyre, compromising the structural integrity of the tyre.

Top Causes of Tyre Puncture

From debris scattered on the streets to potholes lurking in the shadows, sharp objects find their way to puncture tyres when you least expect it.

Signs You Are Driving with a Flat Tyre

Picture this: you’re cruising down the road, and suddenly, something feels off. If you notice your car pulling to one side, hear unusual noises, or feel vibrations through the steering wheel, it’s time to check if you’re dealing with a deflated tyre.

How to Know if the Tyre is Punctured

Inspecting your tyres regularly is key to catching a puncture early. Look for any visible signs of damage like nails or cuts on the tyre’s surface. If you suspect a puncture, a quick pressure check using a tyre pressure gauge can confirm your suspicions.

When Not to Repair a Tyre Puncture

If the puncture is larger than 6mm or located on the sidewall, it’s a no-go for repair. Additionally, if the tyre has been driven on while flat, it may have incurred internal damage, compromising its integrity and needing replacement.

How to Repair Tyre Puncture

First things first, gather your tyre puncture repair kit, which typically includes a reaming tool, rubber plugs, and a plug insertion tool. Next, safely remove the tyre from the vehicle and locate the puncture. Use the reaming tool to clean and widen the puncture hole, then insert a rubber plug using the insertion tool. Trim any excess plug, reinflate the tyre to the recommended pressure.

How to Prevent Tyre Puncture

To reduce the risk of tyre punctures, regularly inspect your tyres for signs of wear and tear. Maintaining proper tyre pressure and avoiding road hazards whenever possible also go a long way in keeping your tyres puncture-free.

Tyre Types 101: Find Your Perfect Match!

When it comes to your vehicle’s performance and safety, choosing the right tyres is key. But with so many tyre’s types out there, how do you know which ones are best for your vehicle? Don’t worry – we’re here to clarify that for you! Whether you’re cruising in a 4×4, a sporty sedan, or your everyday car, here’s what you need to know to pick the right tyres for your vehicle.

Different Types of Tyres

First things first – tyres come in various shapes and sizes, with each type designed for different driving conditions and purposes. Understanding the basics of tyre types will help you choose the right one for your vehicle, so let’s dive in.

All Season, Summer and Winter Tyres

Let’s start with this—different tyre types are built for specific weather conditions:

✅ All-Season Tyres – A versatile choice, these tyres blend key features of summer and winter tyres, making them suitable for mild weather and moderate driving conditions. They provide a balanced mix of grip, longevity, and comfort.

✅ Summer Tyres – Designed for warm and dry conditions, these tyres use a harder rubber compound than winter tyres but remain softer than all-season tyres for better grip and handling on dry and wet roads. However, they lack the flexibility needed for cold temperatures and can become stiff in icy conditions, reducing grip.

✅ Winter Tyres – Engineered for extreme cold, winter tyres have a softer rubber compound that stays flexible in low temperatures. These tyres feature deeper tread patterns and additional tiny grooves help disperse water, snow, and slush, improving traction on icy and slippery roads. However, they wear out faster in warmer conditions due to their softer compound.

Since NZ has a mild climate compared to countries with extreme winters, most drivers use all-season tyres, which perform well year-round.

High Performance Tyres

Now, if you’re after tyres that can really deliver, high performance tyres are your best bet. These tyres are designed to handle the demands of high speeds and aggressive driving. Whether you’ve got a sports car, or you just love to zoom down the highway, high-performance tyres provide the grip and stability you need.

Tyre Tread Patterns

The tread pattern on your tyres affects how they handle on the road. Directional treads have a V-shaped pattern, all about keeping you safe in the rain by pushing water away, so you don’t end up hydroplaning. Symmetrical treads are the classic, with a uniform pattern that offers even wear, better fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride. Asymmetrical treads mix it up with different patterns on the inside and outside of your tyre, providing enhanced grip and stability—perfect for driving through tight corners.

Low Profile Tyres vs High Profile Tyres

When it comes to tyre profile, the aspect ratio is key. The lower the number, the flatter the tyre looks.

✅ Low Profile Tyres: These tyres have a smaller sidewall and are often found on performance vehicles or sports cars. They look sleek, but they offer a firmer ride and less comfort because of their reduced tyre sidewall height. However, their benefits come in the form of better handling and cornering abilities.

✅ High Profile Tyres: These tyres have a higher sidewall, offering a smoother ride and better comfort. They are perfect for those who need extra cushioning or drive on rougher roads. Plus, they are ideal for off-road adventures, SUV and 4×4 vehicles that need a bit more flexibility.

Highway Tyres, All-Terrain Tyres and Mud Tyres

For drivers who love adventure, choosing the right tyres makes all the difference. Whether you’re cruising through the city or heading off the beaten track, there’s a tyre to match your driving needs:

✅ Highway Tyres (H/T) – Made for smooth, paved roads. They offer better fuel efficiency, low road noise, and a comfortable ride for everyday driving.

✅ All-Terrain Tyres (A/T) – A versatile option that balances on-road comfort with off-road capability. They have a more rugged tread than highway tyres, giving you grip on gravel, dirt, and light off-road trails while still handling well on highways.

✅ Mud Tyres (M/T) – They are built for serious off-road adventures, with aggressive tread patterns for maximum traction on soft ground. They have larger tread blocks and reinforced sidewalls to handle rough terrain but can be noisy on highways.

How Do Run Flat Tyres Work?

A game-changer for those who hate the idea of being stuck with a flat, run flat tyres let you keep driving even if you’ve lost air pressure. These tyres have reinforced sidewalls that allow you to drive for a short distance (usually up to 80 km) at reduced speeds, even with no air in the tyre. Perfect for when you are stuck in the middle of nowhere and need to get home or to a nearby mechanic, but it’s still best to replace them ASAP for safety.

Choosing the Right Tyre for Your Vehicle

Picking the right tyre isn’t just about the brand – it’s about understanding your driving needs. Think about the weather conditions, your driving style, and what your car needs to stay in top shape. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to chat with us – our team is always here to help!