Tyres, wheel balancing and alignment

Tyre replacement

Confirm tyre size, load and speed requirements and any vehicle-specific requirements with the garage. Check how many tyres the price covers and whether fitting, balancing, valves and disposal are included. Bring the locking wheel-nut key if the vehicle has one.

Can a puncture be repaired?

A professional needs to assess the damage and tyre condition before deciding whether a repair is suitable. Do not assume every puncture can be repaired, or that a temporary repair kit is a permanent fix. Tell the fitter if the tyre has been driven while flat.

Balancing and alignment are different

Wheel balancing addresses imbalance in a wheel and tyre assembly. Alignment concerns wheel angles. Ask whether an alignment appointment includes measurement only or agreed adjustments, and whether the vehicle needs other work first.

Pressure monitoring and wheel bearings

TPMS work concerns tyre-pressure monitoring. Ask whether the price is for diagnosis, a sensor or relearning the system. A wheel-bearing appointment should identify the affected wheel and required assembly; tyre replacement does not include it.

Alloy repairs and locking-nut removal

Have alloy-wheel damage assessed before choosing a cosmetic repair. Confirm the finish and repair scope. Locking-nut removal is a separate job when the key is missing or damaged; ask what replacement fasteners are needed afterwards.

What is the legal tyre tread depth for a car?

For cars, the Highway Code specifies at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference. Damage and condition matter too; tread depth alone does not establish that a tyre is safe.

Can a punctured tyre be repaired?

A tyre specialist must assess the location and extent of damage and the tyre's internal condition. Do not assume that every nail hole can be repaired or that a temporary sealant is a permanent repair.

What is included in a tyre fitting price?

Ask whether fitting, balancing, valves, disposal and applicable tax are included. Confirm any extra charge for pressure sensors or specialist wheels before comparing totals.

Is wheel alignment the same as wheel balancing?

They are different services. Ask which investigation fits your symptoms and what measurements you will receive. A booking for one should not be assumed to include the other.

What tyre pressure should I use?

Use the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation for the load and check pressures when the tyres are cold. Do not use the tyre sidewall marking as the vehicle's recommended operating pressure.

Do all four tyres need replacing together?

Ask the fitter to consider wear, compatibility and the manufacturer's requirements for your vehicle. This is especially important where the drivetrain has matching requirements. Get the reason for the proposed number of tyres in writing.

Official guidance and further reading

• TyreSafe: punctures and repairs (opens in a new tab or window)
• DVSA: axles, wheels, tyres and suspension (opens in a new tab or window)
• Highway Code: vehicle maintenance and safety (opens in a new tab or window)

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