Home Tyre Swap: Yay or Nay?

When faced with a flat tyre or the need to replace a set, many drivers might consider taking on the task themselves. While DIY tyre fitting might seem like a quick and cost-effective option, there are important factors to consider before rolling up your sleeves. Let’s take a look on the pros and cons of fitting tyres at home compared to seeking the expertise of a professional tyre fitter and share some crucial safety tips.

The Appeal of DIY Home Tyre Fitting – Yay or Nay?

Pros:

Cost Savings: One of the main reasons people choose to change tyres at home is to save money. You avoid the labour costs associated with a professional fitter, which can be appealing if you’re on a tight budget.

Immediate Action: If you’re in a remote location or find yourself with a flat tyre and no nearby service stations, knowing how to fit a spare tyre can be a lifesaver. It allows you to get back on the road quickly, especially if you’re using a space saver or temporary spare tyre.

Personal Satisfaction: Let’s be honest, there’s a sense of accomplishment that comes with handling car maintenance tasks yourself. Successfully changing a tyre can be a confidence booster, can’t it?

Cons:

Safety Concerns: Tyre fitting isn’t just about removing a flat tyre and replacing it with a new one. The process involves ensuring that the car is lifted correctly using the jacking points, that the wheel nuts are properly tightened, and that the spare tyre is fit for driving. Improper handling can lead to accidents or further damage to the vehicle.

Tool Limitations: Not everyone has a well-stocked garage. Essential tools like a wheel brace, a reliable jack, and wheel chocks are necessary to perform the task safely. Without them, you might be putting yourself at risk. Additionally, fully tightening the wheel nuts requires the correct torque, something difficult to achieve without the right equipment.

Time and Effort: What might seem like a quick job can turn into a time-consuming process, especially if you encounter stubborn wheel nuts or issues with lifting the car. For those unfamiliar with the process, it can be frustrating and exhausting.

Safety Tips for DIY Tyre Fitting

Always Work on a Flat Surface: Make sure your car is parked on level ground before you start. A sloped surface can make lifting the car dangerous.

Use the Right Equipment: Ensure you have a quality jack and wheel chocks to stabilise your car. Don’t rely on makeshift tools that might not hold up under the weight of your vehicle.

Double-Check the Tyre Pressure: Before hitting the road, verify that the tyre pressure is correct. An underinflated or overinflated tyre can lead to handling issues or a blowout.

Tighten the Wheel Nuts Properly: After replacing the tyre, make sure the wheel nuts are fully tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications. Loose wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come off while driving.

Avoid Changing Tyres in Hazardous Conditions: If possible, avoid changing tyres on the side of a busy road or in poor weather. If you must, use hazard lights and reflective gear to stay visible to other drivers.

The Advantages of Using a Professional Tyre Fitter

Pros:

Expertise and Precision: Professional fitters are trained to handle all aspects of tyre fitting, from lifting the car safely to ensuring that the tyre pressure is correctly set. They follow a step-by-step process that ensures everything is done to standard, minimising the risk of mistakes.

Proper Equipment: Tyre fitters have access to specialised tools that most DIY enthusiasts don’t. From hydraulic jacks to torque wrenches, professionals have the right gear to ensure that your tyres are fitted securely and safely. They can also identify potential issues like tyre repair needs or alignment problems that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Convenience: Visiting a tyre shop or having a mobile tyre fitter come to you takes the hassle out of the process. You can be confident that the job will be done quickly and correctly, without the need to get your hands dirty.

Safety Assurance: By entrusting the task to a professional, you’re ensuring that all safety standards are met. They’ll check that the spare tyre is suitable for use and that the wheel nuts are fully tightened to the correct torque. This reduces the risk of issues like wheels coming loose or tyre blowouts while driving.

Cons:

Cost: The main downside of professional tyre fitting is the cost. While you pay for peace of mind, the expense can add up, especially if you need to replace multiple tyres. But hey, it’s all worth it to pay for the peace of mind that your tyres are fitted and balanced correctly.

Time: While you might need to schedule an appointment or travel to a shop, this gives you the opportunity to receive professional service that ensures your tyres are fitted perfectly. Plus, the wait can be a great time to relax and know you’re investing in your vehicle’s safety and performance! You might even want to grab a cup of coffee while waiting for your tyres to be fitted!

The Bottom Line: What’s Best for You?

While DIY tyre fitting can be a viable option for those with the necessary tools and knowledge, it comes with significant risks. Safety should always be the top priority, and unless you’re confident in your ability to handle the task properly, visiting a professional tyre fitter is often the best choice. Not only does it ensure that your tyres are fitted correctly, but it also provides peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is in safe hands.

For New Zealand drivers, maintaining tyre health is crucial for staying safe on the road. Whether you choose to fit tyres at home or visit a professional, always ensure that you’re making the safest choice for yourself and your passengers.

Happy Motoring!