Good to know

Look at the sidewall of your current tyre for a code like 205/55 R16 91V. The first number is the width in millimetres, the second the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of the width), then the rim diameter in inches. You’ll also find the recommended size on the tyre placard — usually on the driver’s door jamb — and in your vehicle handbook.

The load index is a number that corresponds to the maximum weight one tyre can carry. The speed rating is a letter showing the maximum speed the tyre is designed for at that load. Fit tyres that meet or exceed the ratings your vehicle manufacturer specifies.

Check the tread wear indicators — small raised bars in the grooves. When the tread is level with them, the tyre is at the legal minimum. In Victoria that is 1.5 mm across the tread. Also replace tyres with cracks, bulges or cuts, or that have been damaged by an impact, regardless of tread depth.

Rubber ages even when the tread looks fine. The four-digit code on the sidewall shows the week and year of manufacture (for example 2422 = week 24 of 2022). Older tyres deserve more frequent inspection — ask us if you’re unsure about yours.

A good habit is once a month and before long trips, when the tyres are cold. The recommended pressures are on the tyre placard and in your handbook — not on the tyre sidewall, which shows the maximum.

Ideally tyres on the same axle should match in brand, model and size. Mixing can change how the car handles. If you’re replacing only two tyres, ask us about the best way to do it for your vehicle.

Alignment sets the angles of your wheels — camber, caster and toe — so the car tracks straight and the tyres wear evenly. Poor alignment can cause pulling, an off-centre steering wheel and fast, uneven tyre wear.

No tyre and wheel are perfectly even. Balancing adds small weights to offset the heavy spots so the wheel spins smoothly. An unbalanced wheel can cause vibration at speed and uneven wear.

Many vehicle handbooks suggest a rotation at regular distance intervals. Check yours, or ask us what suits your vehicle and tyres.

No. Small punctures in the central tread can often be repaired. Sidewall or shoulder damage, large holes and tyres driven flat generally can’t.

Use the booking form: choose your service, tell us about your vehicle, pick a day and time, and send it through. It is a request — we confirm the time with you by phone or email. You can also call us on (03) 5550 0100.

Not yet. Online bookings are requests. The times shown come from our opening hours, not from a live calendar, so we confirm each one with you before it’s locked in.

Yes. Add tyres to your quote as you browse, then send it through and we’ll come back with pricing, availability and fitting details. You can also call or email us.

Online checkout isn’t available yet. Add tyres to your quote or book a fitting and we’ll take care of the rest.

Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM. Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Sunday: Closed. Times are Melbourne time. Please call if you’re planning to visit on a Saturday.

Vex Tyres is at Demo address: 100 Example Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. You can call us on (03) 5550 0100 or email vexoraone.team@gmail.com.