Many vehicle owners are not prepared on what to do if an unexpected tyre problem occurs, such as a slow puncture or a tyre pressure. It is only once people are faced with these situations that they begin to scramble to try to figure out what needs to be done.

This article provides tyre maintenance tips from an iconic Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett. These tips will help vehicle owners prevent or prepare for any tyre problems.

These are easy to remember, even for the not so car-savvy individual.

 Tyre tread  

“It is fundamental to remember that drivers should not drive a vehicle with tyres that have tread worn out,” says Lett. The tread of the tyre refers to its circumference that enables the tyre to have a grip on the roads. Tyre treads have many important uses and benefits, such as “low rolling resistance, grip in wet conditions allowing motorists direction stability, so they should not be neglected to check,” says Lett.

Tyre tread wear also affects the vehicle’s braking distance as tyres that are worn out lack grip on the roads and have less traction. This increases the chances of causing an accident especially if the car needs to be brought to an immediate stop.

Motorists purchasing a tyre should keep in mind that the legal tread depth limit in Australia is 1.5mm across the circumference of the tyre. The tread depth limit ensures the safety of motorists. Walk-in clients are more than welcome to visit Branigans Tyres to “ensure that you are driving roadworthy tyres,” says Lett.

 Tyre pressure  

Improper inflation causes tyre treads to wear rapidly and unevenly.

“The team at Branigans Tyres are happy to assist in recommending the correct tyre pressure to all customers and they ensure all tyres are inflated properly on each visit,” Lett said. An over or under inflated tyre influences the traction, fuel economy, comfort and control of the vehicle.

In case of an emergency, “it is important that all motorists are equipped with a spare tyre that has the right tyre pressure and tread depth,” says Lett.

Having a spare tyre in good condition is crucial if a vehicle is not fitted with run-flat tyres. A run-flat tyre is designed to resist deflation or puncture and allows the vehicle to continue driving.

 Wheel balancing and alignment 

A vehicle that has correctly balanced and aligned wheels will be able to stay in the right driving lane.  “The key is to adjust the angles of the tyres,” says Lett. It is imperative to adjust a vehicle’s wheel alignment as it affects the vehicles steering and suspension.

Lett proposes common signs that a vehicle requires wheel alignment and balancing, this includes if the steering wheel vibrate, the vehicle drifts or pulls to one side, and the steering wheel doesn’t remain centred.

Wheel balancing and alignment provides a smooth driving experience as well as reduces tyre wear, which ensures the safety and longevity of motorists and tyres.  

 Tyre repair and replacement 

Replacing tyres is a hassle-free process with Branigans Tyres. Not only will the right tyres be sourced to fit the particular vehicle, but the tyres be fitted by tyre specialist. Tyre specialists advise that it’s always better to replace 2 or 4 tyres to ease handling of the vehicle.

If a total tyre replacement is not required, a repair is done according to strict guidelines to ensure the safety of the vehicle on the roads.

These basic tips of tyre maintenance can save one’s life. “Free tyre checks are offered by Branigans Tyres,” says Lett, which leaves no reason to neglect the care of one’s tyres.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guarantee customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, customers are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

A multiple service business strategy is always beneficial to growing a company. In maintaining a relationship with loyal customers, it is important for businesses to consider strategies that would improve customer services. This includes cost-effective and convenient services for customers. A one-stop shop offers this and more.

Branigans Tyres offers a one-stop-shop, of all tyre services requirements, to all vehicle owners. The services include the recommendation of tyres for a vehicle, puncture repairs, wheel alignment and balancing, tyre rotation and tyre pressure checks.

 Team cohesiveness 

A one-stop-shop business requires a hands-on team to ensure that all vehicles are attended to, swiftly and with ease. The team at Branigans Tyres are trained and experienced allowing them to work quickly and efficiently. “It is exceptionally important that a team works together in a cohesive and attentive manner to ensure that the job gets done the right way, the first time”, says the owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett.

 A no-frills tyre service centre 

“Our reputation lies in the hands of quality tyre brands and services, in ensuring that all customers are safe on the road,” says Lett. Branigans tyres provide cost-effective quality tyre solutions. This ensures that all customers are satisfied with the safety and longevity of tyres.

“We value our customers,” says Lett. “We offer tyre promotions every month as well as a tyre subscription option,” this allows customers to have an annual supply of tyres with tyre maintenance included, for a small fee paid weekly.

This subscription is available to passengers, “light truck and SUV/4X4 vehicle owners,” says Lett.

To optimise customer convenience, “we welcome walk-in clients,” says Lett. No bookings are required beforehand, therefore, vehicle owners are welcome to drive right into Branigans Tyres workshop, for a free tyre check and advice from tyre specialists on how to avoid unnecessary tyre wear.

 Expert tyre-fitters who know what they’re doing 

To ensure the safety of vehicle owners on the road, tyre specialists work hard in pioneering innovative tyre solutions to help solve all client requirements. It takes a trained tyre specialist to know which tyres are best suited for any vehicle. “No matter the vehicle type, our tyre specialists are fully capable of providing the best solutions and advice,” Lett said.

Regular tyre services and maintenance are required as signs of formidable issues may be identified, before any incidences on the road caused by tyre errors. Many motorists also make the error of servicing their vehicles themselves. However, this can only be done with the correct computer equipment and software. To ensure that the job is done correctly to keep motorists safe on the roads, motorists are advised to service their vehicles by motor specialists and experts at Branigans Tyres.

“When a vehicle is brought in there is no doubt that it will leave in a better condition than when it arrived,” says Lett. After getting a full tyre service from Branigans Tyres, “vehicle owners can be assured that their tyres will perform optimally and that their vehicle is safe to drive,” Lett concluded. This forms part of the promise of guaranteed customer satisfaction.  

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Tyres can be expensive, therefore it is important to maintain the condition of the tyres to ensure their longevity. Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides interesting tips to maintain and sustain one’s tyres.

Environmentally conscious

Branigans Tyres is an extraordinary tyre service centre as “[they] supply recycled tyres,” says Lett. Recycled tyres offer the same performance and value as a new manufactured and purchased tyre, but at a much more affordable price.

All tyres have to meet the safety requirements to ensure that motorists and their families are safe on the road. “Customers are guaranteed to leave the Branigans Tyres workshops secured and satisfied,” says Lett.

Staff goes the extra mile

It is crucial that tyre servicing centres, like Branigans Tyres, ensures and prioritises the safety of all customer vehicles, and offers sound advice to any customer queries. “The trained and experienced tyre specialists ensures that all customers leave the workshop knowing that they are in safe and reliable hands,” says Lett.

Lett believes, “great customer service means hands-on management and exceeding expectations, that’s why some clients are third-generation supporters of Branigans.” Branigans Tyres thrives on exceeding customer expectations. Such expectations are upheld by the investment in the growth and development of employees to strengthen customer service.

“The staff is at the heart of this family business, and share the same values and passion with customers,” says Lett. “The exceptional customer service is owed to the staff who often propose innovative ideas to customer queries, and have solutions to any problem,” Lett further adds.

Tyre maintenance services

“Branigans Tyre maintenance services ensures that customers receive the best performance and value for money out of their tyres,” says Lett.

In the age of technological development and convenience it is important for businesses to keep up with the development of advanced technology. Tyre specialists at Branigans Tyres are kept up-to-date with the latest tyre technology to ensure that the workshop is fitted with advanced equipment. This guarantees that all customer needs are consistently and exceedingly met.

There are “no limitations to what we are capable of. We solve and fix any problem,” says Lett. Instilling a problem solving attitude improves the growth of the business.

Tyre puncture repairs and free assessment

Branigans Tyres undertakes tyre puncture repairs that demand immediate attention. “We offer free assessments of tyres,” says Lett. If a slow puncture, for instance, is located in the tread area, the damage is relatively quick to fix.

Lett says that there are a few factors that influence the tyre mileage, such as tyre width and over inflation, and tread compound. “Wheel alignment and proper inflation is a quick and important fix,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has the solution for you.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Car owners often want to know how they can make their cars more economical. The answer lies in the tyres. Motorists remain unaware of the importance of ensuring that tyres remain in good condition, this assists greatly with fuel economy.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides insight to help vehicle owners travel further for less with their tyres. The key is to decrease fuel consumption by reducing tyre friction.

When the tyre makes contact and rotates on the road or gravel, it deforms the tyre and affects its performance over a certain period. This in turn, “influences the traction, cornering, acceleration and braking system of the vehicle”, says Lett.

Lett provides a few tips for motorists to consider to get as much mileage from their vehicle.

 Maintain tyre conditions 

Saving fuel consumption starts with the correct maintenance of the tyres. There are different tyre dimensions such as the design, material and construction contribute to issues of noise, traction, wear resistance and its appearance.

Simple measurements should be considered, such as fitting the correct tyre to the vehicle.

A vehicle’s performance is greatly affected by the size of the tyre that is fitted on a vehicle. Branigans Tyres assists in fitting the correct tyre for your vehicle to ensure a positive effect on a vehicle’s performance.

Vehicle owners who consider changing the size of the tyre, should also consider the weight of their vehicle.  Lett informs that the incorrect tyre size can affect the gear ratio and can put the engine under unnecessary strain.

Regular tyre checks

Many vehicle owners do not know that the tyre inflation, tread wear and wheel alignment impact fuel consumption. Regular tyre pressure checks are essential to decrease fuel consumption. Maintaining a proper inflation of the tyre is important for the safety of the vehicle as well as fuel consumption. “Under-inflated tyres can affect the rolling resistance by 10%”, says Lett.

A vehicle’s fuel efficiency is primarily affected by the tyres rolling resistance. Lett explains that the rolling resistance refers to the measure of force that the axle of the vehicle takes when travelling. Many motorists do not realise the extent to which “the rotation and weight of the vehicle affects the shape of the tyre”, says Lett.

An irregular tyre tread increases the tyre’s rolling resistance, and the incorrect wheel alignment causes drag, both of which affect fuel consumption.

Lett advices that tyres should often be rotated to reduce tyre tread.

The pressure of the vehicle puts weight on the tyre causing it to heat up rapidly and wear out the tyre. “If the tyre is worn out, it impairs the handling of the vehicle and may cause the vehicle to lose grip on the road” says Lett. This causes strain to the engine as more power is required to move the vehicle forward. An overworked engine would increase your fuel consumption quite significantly.

Energy efficient tyres, that are heat-resistant, minimises rolling resistance. This not only benefits the driver, but the environment as well. Lett says, “a lower rolling resistance allows the driver to achieve more mileage from the vehicle”. Motorists should consider eco-friendly energy saving tyres as less harmful emissions are released into the atmosphere.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

A Recreational Vehicle (RV) is a motor vehicle designed with living conditions and features for long-distance travel.

Long-distance travel puts a lot of stress on the tyres. An Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides RV safety tips that can reduce the chances of unexpected tyre issues on the long road.

Distribute load evenly

In order to manage the weight of the vehicle, all tyres should be the same size and the capacity of the load should not exceed the load trailer weight. To maintain the pressure of the tyre it is important to distribute the load in the RV evenly. It is essential to balance the load on the vehicle so that it is distributed evenly on the axles and each tyre. If the load is unevenly distributed, it may cause a tyre to burst.

Inspect tyres

“Before one leaves for the long road, it is important to conduct an inspection of the RV from a specialist, whether the tyre requires inflation, rotation or repairs,” says Lett. This quick errand or detour to your local Branigans Tyres workshop is beneficial to the safety of long-distance travellers. For instance, a tyre blowout can be avoided by simply taking the necessary precautions.  

Most of these tyre warning signals are overlooked by drivers during a self-inspection, hence the importance of having an expert, such as a tyre specialist. A tyre specialist will advise on whether RV tyres are safe to travel with or if there are any adjustments, replacements or changes needed to be made.

RV tyres need to be checked for signs of uneven tyre wear, as this could signal an axle problem, and if this is not fixed, “it could lead to overheating in the tyres – just like any other tyre,” says Lett. The use of a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) can assist in alerting RV drivers of any tyre pressure problems, including the overheated tyres or if there are any signs that the tyre may be overheating.

RV drivers must keep in mind that RV tyres need to be rotated just as is done with any motor vehicle. This will ensure that the tyres wear evenly and also help extend the lifespan of the tyres.

At Branigans Tyres, “tyre rotations are done with ease and precision to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers,” says Lett.

Cover tyres

When tyres are exposed to the sun for long periods of time, the tyres dry out. Tyre specialists advise that RV “drivers should cover their tyres to avoid damage from UV-light,” says Lett. A good investment is getting RV tyre covers that will not only protect tyres from the heat of the sun but also provide protection in cold weather conditions. RV tyre covers will also help prevent premature cracking of the tyres.

Tyre specialists at Branigans Tyres, are available for all RV drivers who are ready to take on their next adventure. Drivers are urged to consult with tyre specialists for advice on how to get the maximum life out of their RV tyres.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. For guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, customers are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Many people use public transport for various reasons whether it is to commute to school or work. Public transport drivers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of passengers.

As a public transport driver, it is important to keep in mind the importance of tyre safety as tyres are always in contact with the road. If the tyres are in a bad condition, it may contribute to road accidents, causing serious injury to passengers and other road users.  

Iconic Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides his perspective on this subject.

Understanding the different types of tyre damage

Tyres can become damaged in different ways and without anyone even noticing until it’s too late. The types of tyre damage include: regular and irregular tyre wear, punctures, cuts and impact tyre damage.

Regular tyre wear happens overtime due to the overuse of tyres. “Although there is no exact period as to how long tyres should last, there are ways that one can extend the lifespan of the tyres,” says Lett. Rotating tyres regularly to even out the tyre wear is one way to slow down regular tyre wear. It also reduces the effects of irregular tyre wear. Lett explains, “irregular tyre wear on weaker tyres, can lead to tyre ‘blow-outs'”.

Tyre punctures are caused by nails, stones and other debris found on the road, that embeds in the tyre when driven over. Driving into potholes also puts pressure on the tyres, especially if the vehicle was travelling at a high speed.

To prevent further tyre punctures, drivers are advised to “remain focused and cautioned on the road, to prevent driving over obstructed and protruding objects,” says Lett. This reduces the chances of getting any punctures and also increases the life span of the tyres.

Tyre cuts are caused by sharp objects on the road and can be avoided by steering clear of driving on rough surfaces. After noticing a tyre cut, it is advised that the tyre be checked and repaired by a tyre specialist as driving with tyre cuts is a road safety risk.

Impact tyre damage

Impact tyre damage can be spotted by the appearance of bulges on the tyre. This is caused by driving at excessive speeds over potholes, speed bumps and curbs. Lett explains, “the bulges on the tyre can lead to further damage of the tyre. Drivers need to take the necessary precautions to avoid causing these.”

Frequent tyre checks may seem like a waste of time, but they are necessary and important to ensure the peace of mind of the driver and passengers when commuting to various destinations.

Branigans Tyres prioritises the safety of all customers to keep them and their families safe on the road. “Our experienced tyre specialists are quick to spot any tyre problem, and they’re even better at solving it,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Mums are capable of handling any situation that they are faced with. However, it is important to anticipate and be prepared for unforeseen situations, such as changing a tyre on the side of the road. Knowing basic tyre safety tips is beneficial in any circumstance.

It is without a doubt that when it comes to anything related to safety, mums are knowledgeable, especially when it comes to their child’s safety on the roads. Mums are quick to grasp most vehicle and tyre concepts, whether it is rim replacements, tyre pressure or changing a tyre.

 Keeping “Mum’s Taxi” in Good Working Condition 

Mums often spend their time shuttling their kids from one school activity to another. Therefore, it is common that mums to be occupied and forget to regulate their tyre condition. To avoid unexpected tyre blowouts that are not only inconvenient but also dangerous, tyre safety measures need to be taken and carried out as often as possible.  

Ensuring the safety of all passengers while in transit is of utmost importance to mums. Whilst changing the vehicle’s oil, mums should squeeze in a quick tyre inspection. And here’s why:

 Mum’s Taxi’s Tyre Inflation 

Tyres tend to deflate gradually within that time, even in short distance travel. This affects the overall traction on the road. Since the tyres deflate slowly, mums may only start to notice a problem when it is too late. This is why “frequent tyre inflation checks are important and getting tyres pumped as often as possible is necessary,” says tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett.

 Spotting Sidewall Damage 

A quick inspection of the tyre’s sidewalls can be done just before the next errand. It’s only four tyres, so scanning for bulges or scratches on the sides shouldn’t take up much time.

A vehicle left in the sun for excessive hours in high temperatures affects the tyres. Tyres tend to bear the brunt of excessive exposure to heat and ultraviolet light which can result in the rubber degrading. It is always best to park your vehicle in the shade or undercover roofs.

 Tyre Tread Depth Tests 

Another important aspect of tyre maintenance is doing a tyre tread check. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.5mm in Australia. Although mums tend to drive responsibly on the roads, unforeseen incidences may occur that require emergency braking. To bring a car to an immediate stop is much harder with tyres are worn out.

A quick and easy test can be done using a 10-cent coin, by “placing the coin in the groove of the tyre,” says Lett, Mums can check if the coin appears hidden or visible. “If the coin is hidden, then the tread depth is above the legal minimum,” says Lett.

Alternatively, a stop at Branigans Tyres can be made en route to mums next school run. These tyre checks can be done in a few minutes and mums will be notified if a new set of tyres is required.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. For guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, customers are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Motorists tend to focus more on mechanical vehicle checks when they’re about to set off on a road trip. They often forget to check that their tyres are in good condition, even though the performance of any vehicle is heavily reliant on the condition of the vehicle’s tyres.

During Tyre Safety Month, Branigans Tyres seek to remind all vehicle owners of the importance of practicing good tyre maintenance habits. Tyres are the only contact a vehicle has with the road. “Overlooking their condition may prove to be dangerous, not only to the motorist, but also to the passengers in the vehicle,” says owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett.

This article examines tyre maintenance practices that every vehicle owner needs to carry out, in order to meet Australia’s road safety standards and ensure a safer journey.

Properly inflated tyres – tyres that are neither over inflated or under inflated

While one may be on a road trip, fuel efficiency is still a big deal for any motorist. But what motorists don’t realise is, that driving a vehicle with under-inflated tyres results in the vehicle wasting fuel. It also “contributes to the shortening of the tyre’s lifespan because the tyres wear unevenly,” explains Lett.

Over-inflated tyres not only contribute to tyre wear, but it also affects the vehicle’s ability to brake or steer properly.

Referring to the owner’s manual for the correct tyre pressure is good practice as tyre pressure guidelines provided anywhere else on the vehicle may only provide maximum tyre pressure and not the recommended tyre pressure.

Tyre rotation every 10 000km or less

Tyres wear-out differently depending on the different road conditions they’re exposed to and the weight balance of a vehicle. This is why “rotating them is so important,” says Lett, since this allows the tyres to get exposed to similar variations.

Every tyre change or rotation should be followed by a tyre balancing service

Having one’s tyres balanced, can make the difference between a safe driving experience and an unsafe one. Lett says, “unbalanced tyres speed up tyre tread wear and this is why tyre balancing is so important”. Tyre balancing is a process that involves the equalisation of the weight of the tyre and wheel assembly, to ensure that the wheel spins smoothly at high speeds.

Getting a tyre specialist to double-check a vehicle’s tyres

Sometimes, the excitement of a road trip can cause anyone to overlook tyre problems that may arise.

It may also seem overwhelming to keep tyres well-maintained before, during and after a road trip. But, that’s why we have tyre specialists at Branigans Tyres; dedicated to ensuring the safety of all motorists on all Australian roads.

By getting regular tyre checks done at Branigans Tyres, Burleigh Heads, the stress of tyre maintenance is taken away from the vehicle owner. Their mind is put at ease of all road safety concerns they may have previously had and their tyres will start to contribute a great deal to the vehicle’s improved driving performance; fuel efficiency as well as increase the overall lifespan of the vehicle’s tyres.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Wheels certainly do go round – but ‘tyre rotation’ means switching up the position of tyres. It helps them to last longer, and it keeps the vehicle’s occupants safer because the tyres have better traction.

“A vehicle’s tyres should be rotated every 10,000km or so, and for those who drive a fair amount, that will probably coincide with their vehicle’s oil change and service,” says Chris Lett, owner of Branigans Tyres and a qualified auto engineer with decades of experience. “While the tyres are getting moved around, they can be thoroughly inspected for wear and damage and replaced if necessary and it’s also a good opportunity to get wheel balancing done.”

Why Tyre Rotation Works

Tyres don’t wear out evenly. In front-wheel-drive cars, the front tyres will bear the brunt of the torque and friction whenever the driver accelerates, brakes, or turns. As a result, they wear much faster than the rear tyres. If the front tyres are rotated to the rear of the car, the fresher rear tyres will go to the front, allowing for more even tyre wear and less frequent replacement. Apart from helping tyres to last the distance, even tread wear translates to better traction and better handling for a safer drive.

More Than One Way to Do It

There are different types of tyre rotation, and the one to choose depends on a lot of factors. The type of tyre wear to be expected from a front-wheel drive has already been discussed, but even a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive needs tyre rotation.

The type and size of tyres is important. Some tyres are “directional” and some cars have different size tyres on the front and rear axles. There’s also the question of the spare tyre – if it’s a full-size tyre that can be included in the rotation. By looking at these factors, tyre professionals know which type of rotation to apply. Here’s a quick summary.

Non-Directional, Same Size

When all tyres are non-directional and of the same size, a rearward cross, forward cross, or X-pattern can be adopted.

Rearward cross rotation is good for four-wheel-drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles. The front tyres go to the rear axle and their sides are switched. The rear tyres go to the front axle and are kept on the same side. Forward cross rotation works the other way round as is usually best for front-wheel drive cars. X pattern rotation means that all tyres switch both axles and sides and is often used on light trucks with front-wheel drive.

Directional Tyres and High-Performance Tyres

So far, non-directional, same-size tyres have been covered, and it’s easy to understand how their rotation should be done. Directional tyres, and tyres that aren’t the same size on both axles are even easier since there are fewer options.

With directional tyres, sides cannot be switched, but it’s possible to switch axles, so this type of tyre rotation is termed front-to-back rotation. When a vehicle has different tyre sizes on the front and rear axles, tyres can be switched to opposite sides but should not be transferred from one axle to another.

Don’t Forget the Wheel Balancing

Wheel balancing is usually done along with tyre rotation, but it isn’t always a must. If motorists decide to do their own tyre rotation, they should look out for signs that their wheels need rebalancing. If they notice vibration on the steering wheel after tyre rotation, it’s a sure sign that the wheels need balancing.

Alternatively, drivers are welcome to leave the whole job to Branigans – it takes minutes and will save a lot of struggling with spanners plus the worry that wheel balancing might be out afterwards. “Many drivers don’t rotate their tyres at all,” says Chris. “They could save a substantial amount of money over time if they did.”  

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. To guarantee customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Road users may well have clicked their tongues disapprovingly when noticing the tell-tale black marks that tyres leave on tar after a wheel-spin, but there’s more to getting the most out of tyres than avoiding showy (and illegal) pull-aways. Chris Lett sums up the driving-style secrets to longer-lasting tyres, and car owners will be relieved to know that they don’t need to do anything awkward or time-consuming to optimise their tyres’ life.

  1. Go Easy on the Brake Pedal

A car doesn’t even need to come to the classic screaming halt seen in so many movie car chase scenes to wear out its tyres: going hard on the brakes is bad for any car and reduces tyre life. “Hard braking can trigger the ABS system unnecessarily, and each time there’s wear on that system its lifespan is shortened while tyres are subjected to greater demands,” Chris explains. “Regular hard braking is also bad for the drive shaft. Of course, when emergencies arise, drivers must step on the brakes as hard as they can, but a full-tilt driving style with lots of hard braking is to be avoided. Save it, and tyre rubber, for emergencies.”

  2. Go Even Easier When Towing

Even those with a moderate driving style may need to adjust a little for towing. “There’s a lot of weight behind a vehicle when it’s towing,” says Chris. “It stands to reason that it will make overall momentum greater which makes for greater force when bringing the combination of car and trailer or caravan to a stop. Tyres bear the brunt of that, so take it easy when towing and try to anticipate situations in which it will be necessary to slow down or stop so that the brakes can be applied gently.”

  3. Gentle in the Rough

Road surfaces make a difference, but every great adventure off the beaten track will involve at least some time spent driving on gravel or dirt roads. “When driving over corrugations, there is a temptation to go faster since the ride feels a little smoother, but the faster the vehicle goes, the greater the impact of surface debris on its tyres. There’s a big difference between hitting a stone in the road when taking it slowly compared to hitting it at speed. Once again, the tyres take the hammering.”

  4. Adjust the Seat Correctly

If drivers are seated in an awkward driving position, they are likely to drive in a choppy way. “Always adjust the seat so that the driver’s wrists can rest on the steering wheel when the arms are extended forward,” advises Chris. “They will have better control over the car, and that means a safer, more comfortable ride and less chance of driving errors that can reduce the lifespan of the tyres.”

  5. Turn the Wheel When the Car is Moving

Each time a driver turns the wheel of a stationary car, its tyres scrape across the road surface and lose a little more rubber. Sometimes, it’s absolutely necessary to do it when entering or leaving a tight parking space or pulling away into a sharp turn, but it’s better for the tyres to turn when the wheels are in motion. “It’s easy to develop bad driving habits over time, so watch out for this one,” says Chris. “It should be the exception and not the rule.”

  Ask Branigans About Tyre Wear Patterns

Chris suggests that motorists ask Branigans technicians about tyre wear patterns and whether they indicate anything of which they should be made aware. “Tyre wear might indicate some extra ways to save,” says Chris. “For example, if the tread is worn only at the central part of the tyre, the car owner may be over inflating them. Cracks and bulges on the sidewall could mean that a driver hit a pothole too hard – or it may be a sign of habitually driving with underinflated tyres. Branigans tyre technicians might be able to provide customers with some interesting insights that lead to extra savings.”

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. For guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, customers are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Tyre tread may seem like a fairly basic concept: roughen up the surface of the rubber and it gets a better grip. But a great deal of innovation and scientific thought has gone into developing the tyre treads that are seen today. “It’s a surprisingly interesting topic,” says Chris Lett, Gold Coast tyre specialist and a man whose love for cars spans a lifetime of auto-engineering know-how.

“In 1905, when the first tyre treads appeared, they were just there to protect the tyre carcass by keeping it out of contact with the road. But over the years, the potential for tyre tread to do much more than that has been explored quite thoroughly, and it won’t be surprising if the future brings even more improvements.”

Modern Tyre Tread Types Explained

Chris explains that though there are many variations on the theme, modern tyre treads can be broadly categorised into three types: symmetrical treads, asymmetrical treads, and directional treads. “Each of them has its own benefits,” says Chris.

Symmetrical treads are the same across the entire width of the tyre. They drive smoothly, offer excellent directional stability, and have low rolling resistance.

Asymmetrical treads use a different pattern on the inside and outside of the tyre. The inner part of the tread is designed to displace water and provides improved protection against aquaplaning. The outer part is designed for traction and also for lower road noise. “They look a little odd,” says Chris, “but they’re a popular choice for high-performance cars.”

Directional treads are designed for one direction of travel. They’re easy to spot because of their V-shaped grooves which not only displace water to reduce the chance of aquaplaning in wet conditions, but also provide extra traction in the dry.

How to Choose

There are no real right or wrong answers when it comes to choosing a tread pattern. Chris recommends symmetrical treads for the budget-conscious: “It’s possible to extend tyre lifespan by rotating the tyres more effectively,” says Chris “because anything goes, and the tread ensures fuel savings and a nice, smooth ride.”

Directional tyres are the best for driving in mud and on wet roads. However, Chris points out that unless motorists tend to drive rather fast in wet conditions or frequently drive on very slippery and muddy roads, they’ll be perfectly safe with non-directional tyre treads. “The same is true of asymmetrical treads. If people are worried about aquaplaning or sliding out in the wet, they do provide better traction and cornering, but with careful driving in adverse road conditions, symmetrical treads will have more than adequate road-holding.”

When choosing tyre treads, matching them across axles is important. “Different tread patterns can be used between front and rear, but not on the same axle,” Chris notes. “It makes sense. Different tread patterns are designed to do different things, and they definitely weren’t designed to work in unison with other tread patterns.”

Enough Tread is More Important than Which Tread

“The most important thing about tread,” says Chris, is making sure that there is enough of it! Worn tyres can double stopping distances, and drivers are far more likely to lose control of the vehicle.” Accident statistics from around the world include some thought-provoking facts about tyres and road safety.

In Ireland, worn tyres are implicated in over 70 percent of road accidents that were caused by a mechanical failure. The AA cites an overall figure of 9 percent of accidents in the wet being caused by insufficient tread while 2 percent of dry weather accidents in the AA’s study involved cars with worn tyres. “So, before people get to work on deciding which tread their next set of tyres will have, they should take a look at their current tyres,” says Chris. “Enough tread is definitely more important than the type of tread. But even with the best tyres in the world, drive carefully in the wet. Slow down and arrive safely even if that means being a little late.”

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News, YDMA Group

Early Cars: A Rough, Slow, but Exciting Journey

Early cars certainly weren’t comfortable. Shock absorbers were only invented at the start of the twentieth century, and pneumatic tyres, though patented in 1845, only became practical in 1888. “It’s probably fortunate that most early cars didn’t go particularly fast,” says Chris. “The combination of poor roads, hard wheels, and no suspension would have made for a bone-shaking ride. Nevertheless, it must have been hugely exciting to experience the advent of self-propelled vehicles.”

The history of cars is peppered with weird and wonderful snippets of information. For instance, electric cars were early contenders, but they quickly faded from the scene owing to their short battery life and the sheer size and weight of the batteries. After that, the debate between steam and electric power became, quite literally, heated with each camp saying that the other’s preferred type of engine was likely to explode. 

In truth, the chance of either engine exploding was quite low, but the thought must have added a bit of fear-factor for passengers and drivers. The internal combustion engine eventually won out, if only because it could be started and driven right away, instead of needing the half hour it took for boilers to be heated and gain enough pressure to power the vehicle. 

The Wheels Keep Turning: a More Comfortable Ride

Necessity is the mother of invention, and with self-propelled vehicles taking to the roads and going progressively faster, the development of wheels, tyres, and suspension for a more comfortable ride would keep pace with the new technology. 

Charles Goodyear was the first to discover vulcanised rubber, which made the material better able to withstand exposure to the elements, and soon after, Robert Thomson patented a leather-covered tyre containing a bundle of “inner tubes.” It never went into production, and it would be over 40 years before John Dunlop invented the basics of the pneumatic bicycle tyres we know today. 

Tyre technology still needed a further step in its development before it would be suitable for use on automobiles. Andre and Edouard Michelin became the inventors of the world’s first pneumatic car tyres thanks to their development of a detachable tyre in 1891 and the company formed by the brothers invented the first radial tyres in 1946. “Radial tyres were a huge leap forward,” explains Chris. “They made a big difference to the handling and fuel efficiency of cars. Bias tyres still exist, but radials are by far the most popular.”

Cars of the Present and Future

It’s a huge jump from the debate between steam power and internal combustion to today’s move towards electric and hybrid cars. Most people don’t even realise that electric cars were around before there were internal combustion engines. However, there is now technology to make electric cars practical, and that technology has only recently become available.

Motorists have changed too. From simply being delighted by the ‘miracle’ of a vehicle that could power itself along to expecting fuel efficiency, comfort, and high-tech features, car owners expect more of their vehicles than ever before. 

As in the past, tyres are changing too. “Run flat tyres that can hold up for a while despite being punctured are a relatively new development.” says Chris. “Now, tyre makers are looking at eliminating flat tyres altogether, making tyres with longer-lasting tread, and reducing the environmental impact of tyres.”

At Branigans, Chris is doing his bit. Although he isn’t working on the latest tyre designs, he’s making sure that end-of-life tyres don’t end up in landfills and that perfectly good tyres don’t get discarded. “It’s not what the latest advances are targeting,” says Chris, “but being kind to the environment is something that can be done now while we wait for the new materials, designs, and ideas that will be keeping folks on the road in decades to come.”

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

Z-Tyres’ Limited Edition Gold-Plated Tyres

It’s no joke. Somewhere out there, gold-plated tyres really do exist. They were made by Dubai-based Z-tyres and were auctioned off for charity, raising around $195,000 AUD per tyre. The sidewalls of the tyres are picked out in gold leaf with a diamond-encrusted “Z” representing the brand. Who bought the tyres and whether they’ll ever be used on the road, remains a mystery. “It’s crazy,” says Chris, “but at least the money went to a good cause.”

Letourneau L-2350 Front-loader Tyres

If someone is a fan of huge yellow machines that get down and dirty doing big jobs, they’re almost sure to fall in love with the biggest earth-mover out there. Needless to say, the tyres are equally heavy-duty: they’re over 4 metres tall. This 260-tonner is used in surface mining, and replacing just one tyre costs in the region of $82,000 AUD. 

Caterpillar 797 Dump Truck Tyres

Muscle machines are still dominating the rankings for the most expensive tyres in the world, and Caterpillar Dump truck tyres are up there with the costliest. Needless to say, this is a big Cat: the largest dump truck out there, and a sheer monster that would dwarf a regular quarry runabout. On the off-chance that someone owns one, they can expect to dig deep for those tyres: it’ll cost about $44K AUD to replace a single one.

Bugatti Veyron Tyres

Described by enthusiasts as the “greatest car ever made” there’s nothing cheap about the Veyron. Then again, for those willing to fork out the $2.7m AUD it’ll cost to own one, they won’t be too fussy about the tyre price. That’s a good thing, because they probably won’t get away with paying less than $52K AUD to replace a tyre. To put this in perspective, let’s see what’s next on our list.

Space Shuttle Tyres

For those who have been buying tyres for a Veyron, a space shuttle tyre might look like a bargain at just about $7K AUD. But these masterpieces by Michelin have to take quite a punch. The rear tyres are only good for one landing, and the front ones must be replaced after two landings. All things considered, they’re probably better off with a Veyron!

If Tyres Seem Expensive, Check out Branigans

By this time, there might be a feeling of relief for those who drive a mundane Mazda or a straightforward Toyota, but if they’re feeling the pain of buying tyres, it’s time to shop around. Branigans Burleigh Heads, and its branch at Southport, offer budget-friendly prices and even a subscription service that allows vehicle owners to pay off their tyres in advance the easy way. 

Meanwhile Chris has decided that he won’t start working on a subscription service for space shuttle tyres just yet. “I don’t think the market is altogether ready for that,” he says with a grin.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

This article takes a closer look at some of the unethical practices uncovered in the South African investigation with the intention of helping consumers to spot possible upselling tactics they neither want nor need. 

Punctures That Can’t be Repaired

Puncture repair is cheap. Buying a new tyre isn’t. The best way to know whether the person who is telling someone a puncture can’t be repaired is being truthful is to know a bit about tyres, says Chris. 

“No tyre business should agree to repair a puncture if it’s located on the tyre’s sidewall or shoulder,” says Chris. “The tyre will be unsafe, and the repair won’t last.”  Other circumstances in which replacing a punctured tyre is recommended would include it having too little tread or a puncture that is too large for patching. “If a hole in a tyre is around 6mm big, it can’t really be repaired in a safe way, and it’s better to replace the tyre.”

Claims That all Four Tyres Must Match

Whether it’s from ignorance on the salespeople’s part or the less excusable intention of making as much money as possible off a customer, the practice of insisting that all four tyres must be replaced after one has been damaged is questionable. Chris weighs in.

“Four tyres of exactly the same tread pattern and brand will certainly ensure optimum performance,” he says. “Many tyre makers recommend it for this reason, but there’s a distinction between ‘necessary’ and ‘nice.’ It’s certainly necessary for tyres across any one axle to be the same, but it’s not strictly necessary for all four tyres to match unless you’re driving a very specialised vehicle. So, on an ordinary sedan, you might find that you need to replace two tyres instead of one, but replacing all four isn’t a must provided that there’s sufficient tread.”

Hidden Charges 

Branigans Tyres includes wheel balancing in tyre prices, but some workshops might charge extra for balancing. It’s a necessary part of the job of switching tyres, but an additional cost for wheel balancing can make the difference between a good deal and a bad one. 

“Fortunately, most workshops will include balancing in the cost of tyres as we do. After all, if someone is buying a tyre, it’s safe to assume that they want it fitted too,” says Chris. “However, it’s a smart idea to ask whether wheel balancing is included in prices you’re quoted just to be on the safe side. If it isn’t, the cost of getting your tyres working for you might spoil what would otherwise have been a reasonably-priced transaction.”

A Hard Sell on Wheel Alignment and Brakes

Chris doesn’t believe that a need for wheel alignment or brake repairs are subject to sales tactics. One either needs them, or one doesn’t, and the evidence is visible on the car’s tyres or brake components. However, he concedes that salespeople eager to reach targets could exaggerate these needs. 

“Once again, being an informed consumer protects you,” says Chris. “At Branigans, we always show our clients the reasons for our recommendations. If wheel alignment is bad, it shows on tyre wear. You probably won’t need wheel alignment every time you replace tyres, but if the signs are there, your workshop should be willing to point them out to you.”

“The same goes for brakes. We do repair them, although it’s not part of our core business offering, and you will need an appointment. Our technicians are trained to check brake components, and they’ll point out any wear and tear to the vehicle’s driver. After that, it’s up to him whether he wants to make an appointment with us or go elsewhere for repairs. To us, it’s about safety, rather than sales, and we’ve had some very satisfied customers reporting that we saved them from costly repairs by pointing out wear.”

Steering Clear of Questionable Tyre Sales Tactics: The Bottom Line

In conclusion, Chris says that getting the fairest deals on tyres is about being informed. “If you feel uncomfortable with your customer experience, feel that you’re being pressured, or believe that salespeople are using scare tactics to make you spend more than you should, get a second opinion.” 

It’s also worth building relationships. “At Branigans, we pride ourselves in taking care of our customers’ interests. The family business safeguards its reputation for fairness, quality, and open-cards dealings, and it’s one of the main reasons why customers give Branigans their loyalty and refer their friends. Sure, the prices are good too – but it’s quality and integrity that matter most.”

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

“The price point is one of Branigans big advantages,” says Mr Lett. “Locals know that they can get money-saving deals from Branigans Tyres. But even without that advantage, I think the fact that Branigans is a family-owned local business has influence.” 

Mr Lett shares his reasons for agreeing that consumers prefer small, family businesses over national chains based on his personal experience. 

People Like to do Business with People

The level of personal engagement is one of the big reasons why Mr Lett feels that being a family-owned local business is a decided advantage.

“If people were to choose between doing business with a brand and doing business with folks they can expect to see right there on the workshop floor, it would be unsurprising if they chose the latter option,” says Mr Lett. “Brands are very impersonal. Maybe there’s a local franchisee, and of course, he or she employs people, but you still don’t get the feeling that there is a really personal relationship.”

People Trust Family-Owned Businesses

When running a family-owned business, business owners have a strong sense of loyalty to both the family they work with and the community they serve. They know that the way they do business reflects on their family’s name, reputation, and position in the community. In Chris’s opinion, that means they work harder to give customers top-quality service and he feels that the public is aware of this factor. 

“When you’re a franchisee, the franchise owners might receive a complaint and seek to address it with you – if they think it’s important enough. But it gets much more intense if Mum or Dad Lett is asking you why you let the family down,” he jokes. “It gives customers confidence. They know that they’ll be going straight to the top if they have any issues, not talking to somebody’s secretary who is secretly wishing they’d just go away.”

Family Businesses Try Harder 

In closing, Mr Lett asserts that as a family business, Branigans Tyres tries harder. “When you’re a smaller business, you know you’re up against the big guys. You have to offer something they can’t or won’t offer. You need a competitive edge that’s going to make choosing your business an obvious advantage for customers. And you need to keep it up – especially if you’re hoping that your business will be passed on to the next generation.”

Aside from Branigans Tyres, Mr Lett says that he also likes supporting local businesses most. “It’s about being part of a community. You don’t get that feeling with the big chains and corporations.”

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

“Poor wheel alignment makes a vehicle harder to handle, and poor handling can cause accidents,” he explains. 

Wheel alignment is simply a matter of ensuring that all the wheels work together because they’re all adjusted to the right angle in relation to the car. Apart from making driving pleasanter and safer, proper wheel alignment also helps to extend the lifespan of tyres. 

Symptoms of Poor Wheel Alignment

An alert driver can quickly pick up the symptoms that indicate the need for correction of wheel alignment. According to Mr Lett, people will notice uncomfortable vibration when driving. And, because the wheels direct the trajectory of the car, they may find that they keep having to adjust the steering, even when they’re travelling on a completely straight stretch of road. 

“If it’s very bad, they’ll feel like they’re fighting the vehicle all the time,” says Lett. “It keeps pulling to one side and it’s harder to keep the car from wandering off in its own direction.”

If a driver is still not sure, they can watch how the steering wheel behaves after cornering. The steering wheel should return to a central position after turning. 

If someone has been driving with poor wheel alignment for some time, they’ll see the evidence on the tyres. Uneven tyre wear is a strong indication that they’ve already passed the time when wheel alignment should have been seen to.

Average Frequency for Wheel Alignment

With smooth driving on tarred roads, a car’s wheels may only need alignment every two to three years. But, warns Chris, one may need to have it seen to more frequently. A single nasty bump, such as the kind a driver gets when they hit a pothole or curbstone, could be enough to knock the wheels out of kilter. “Naturally, the same applies if your vehicle has experienced some kind of impact or accident, and if you’re driving on rough roads, you may even need to attend to wheel alignment in less than a year from the last time it was done.”

Branigans is fully equipped to attend to all its clients’ wheel and tyre related needs, and Mr Lett recommends enquiring about wheel alignment whenever they replace or repair a tyre. “Branigans staff will often notice signs of incorrect wheel alignment and alert motorists to the need for an adjustment,” he says. “Nevertheless, it doesn’t hurt to ask.” 

Attending to Wheel Alignment is a Cost-Saver

Apart from the fact that better handling could mean the difference between avoiding an accident and actually having one, there are plenty of cost-savings related to having the wheel alignment tweaked when necessary. To begin with, the tyres and suspension will last longer – and the vehicle will be more fuel-efficient. “You could lose around 7 percent in fuel efficiency if your wheels aren’t properly aligned,” says Lett. 

All in all, it makes good sense to have a car’s wheel alignment checked, and the more often the car is driven, the further it’s driven, and the rougher driving conditions faced, the more frequently it should be done. 

“Branigans is here to take care of its clients,” says Chris. “The team will be happy to show you why they think you should go for a wheel alignment. It’s not an overly pricey or time-consuming exercise, and the benefits far outweigh the costs.”

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast | Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

From the Wheels Up

Start by inspecting the tyres. “Look at the tread depth across the entire width of the tyre,” says Chris. The treads should have a depth of at least 1.5mm. This means that the car is compliant with road safety legislation, it will have better stopping power, and a better chance of staying in control, even in slippery road conditions. Drivers should also check the sidewalls of tyres – any odd-looking bulges mean there is a risk of a blowout.

If there are signs of uneven tyre wear, the wheel balancing and alignment of the care are probably less than ideal. If the treads are still deep enough, Branigans Tyres can help by switching existing tyres around, rebalancing them, and checking the wheel alignment. 

Battery Check, Belts, and Hoses

Chris is an experienced mechanic, so he doesn’t stop at the wheels and tyres his business specialises in. “Simply look under the bonnet and check your battery connections. They should be firmly attached with no signs of corrosion. If there is corrosion, the battery needs checking and cleaning. If you’re confident that you can do it yourself, go ahead. Alternatively, get help from a mechanic.”

“The belts and hoses should also be inspected to ensure that they aren’t worn. They’ll be working hard for you on your long road trip, so either check them out yourself, or get a trustworthy mechanic to take a look.”

Check the Car’s Fluids and Filters

Check the oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant levels. If the oil is starting to look dirty, consider having the car serviced before racking up hundreds of kilometres. That way, the driver can be assured that all the necessary filters have been attended to and that the car’s ready to go. 

Even if the car is not taken for a full service, at the least the air filter should be checked out. If it isn’t clean, not only will more fuel will be used on the trip, but engine problems could be encountered along the way.

Check the Brakes

Apart from attending to tyres, Branigans is also happy to assist with brakes. “Being sure that the brakes aren’t worn before a long road trip is very important. Squeaks, squeals, and grinding noises are among the signs that the brakes need urgent attention, but there are more subtle signs too. For example, if the car tends to pull to one side when you stop suddenly, there’s cause for concern. You may feel vibration on the brake pedal, or it may seem softer than usual. Brake lights that come on for no apparent reason could also point towards an urgent need to attend to the brakes,” says Chris.

Look at the Lights

As a final, very straightforward road safety check before undertaking a long journey, get a family member to walk round the car while testing the indicators, brakes, and headlights. Apart from being in good working order, the covers should also be intact. “Your car won’t break down because your indicator light covers are cracked or broken, but you won’t be as safe on the road, and you could be in line for a hefty fine,” warns Chris. 

Ready to Go: Branigans Wishes Drivers a Great Trip

With the pre-trip checklist complete, it’s a matter of packing the bags and enjoying the journey. “It’s up to you now,” says Chris. “Branigans Tyres wishes you a safe journey to your destination and wonderful welcome when you return home.”

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

Tyres don’t come cheap and knowing a few things about these babies will go a long way. That way, one can expect maximum performance and longevity from the tyres on a car.

• Fact #1 – The inscriptions on the sidewall of a tyre indicates the maximum pressure value. In a car, one should refer to the inner side of the door where the recommended tyre pressure value is mentioned. In this case, the recommended tyre pressure for the front and rear is 35 and 32 PSI respectively.

• Fact #2 – Chris also wanted to crack the myth about valve caps by saying that “valve caps do not prevent the tyre from losing air but are present to keep dust, water and mud from entering the valve and cause air loss.”

• Fact #3 – With low tyre pressure, the tread or grooves gets shut, or the gaps between the groove or tread become less and do not deliver optimum water discharge. As a result, the car could lock up and skid even more.

• Fact #4 – The tyre heats up when PSI is reduced which causes the tyre wall to flex or bend. It is imperative to maintain the company-recommended PSI even during the summer months.

• Fact #5 – During winter, one should look at increasing tyre pressure by 2 PSI for every three to four-degree drop in temperature. This is because the pressure of the tyre decreases by 1 PSI for every such drop in temperature and can shorten the life of the tyre and can lead to serious safety hazards.

• Fact #6 – Tyre patterns aren’t just there for aesthetic purposes. While a tyre’s tread pattern plays a key part in appearance, “its major role is actually to discharge water on wet surfaces, ” adds Chris.

• Fact #7 – The exterior surfaces of the sidewall and tread of the tyre can give only a hint about the tyre compound as there are many other layers beneath the exterior surface that gives the tyre its hard or soft compound characteristics.

• Fact #8 – Winter tyres are not just required on snow or icy roads. A vehicle driving in a location where the temperature is below 10 degrees, it is suggested to opt for winter tyres as these tyres have a more optimal tread pattern in addition to special rubber that prevents them from getting stiff due to the cold.

• Fact #9 – Air pressure should be checked weekly as tyres lose pressure naturally.
• Fact #10 – Slick tyres provide better grip and handling only in dry conditions because of a larger contact patch with the road surface. That is why one sees Formula 1 and MotoGP machines making use of tyres with no tread pattern. It is not advisable to install these tyres on regular cars as the vehicle may lose traction very easily on a wet surface.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by Baxton Media, The Market Influencers, Your Digital Marketing Agency.

The Influence Behind Tyre Shopping

There are many things that influence a vehicle owner’s decision to buy new tyres or what they will look for. Quite often, a quick stop at the local tyre shop and a convenient selection of what is in stock or on special do the trick.

This is not always a bad thing, but to ensure a seamless (and safe) driving experience, there are things that definitely need to be considered before forking out on those black rubber hoops:

• Tyre safety and handling
• Road noise and comfort
• Tyre longevity and quality
• The driving terrain these tyres will be exposed to
• Price (obviously)
• Also, the type of driver a vehicle owner is

Key Requirements When Selecting Tyres

A vital aspect to consider when choosing new tyres is compatibility with the vehicle. The owner’s manual and documentation of a specific car will usually contain a list of compatible tyre types.

The key characteristics of the tyre on the vehicle can be found on its sidewall.

The same tyres will have to be placed on each wheel position too and are extremely important in maintaining performance and control.

The Meaning of the Codes on Tyres

On each tyre, there are a series of numbers and letters that may look like this: 195/55R/16/91H

Each of these digits/letters represents something different and provides vital information. When it comes to how to read tyre size, the first five digits of the code are the ones to concentrate on. The first three digits belong together and indicate the width of the tyre (in millimetres). In the example above, the tyre is 195mm wide. shares Chris.

The two digits following the first slash are what is known as the aspect ratio. Essentially this is the height of the tyre as a percentage of the width. “So, in the example, the tyre has an aspect ratio of 55, meaning the profile height is 55% of its total width (107.25mm),” shares Chris.

In closing, here are some Fast Facts to save for that next trip to the tyre shop:

• Check vehicle documentation for compatible tyre types.
• Tyre size is defined by width, diameter, and height-to-width aspect ratio.
• The load index indicates how much load a vehicle can support.
• The speed rating indicates the maximum speed the tyre is capable of.
• Fit the same model and make of tyre on all four-wheel positions.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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With that said, let’s look at some of the advantages of nitrogen usage in tyres.

It Stabilises Tyres for A Prolonged Time

Compressed air tends to seep out much faster from the tyres than nitrogen and it normally requires sooner re-inflation. “Using nitrogen in car or bike tyres, one may not have to check for the pressure for the next 30 days as the gas doesn’t move out the tyre so quickly,” says Chris Lett, tyre expert and owner of Branigans Tyres.

He also adds that “tyres stay in shape for about a month. In the case of regular air, if a vehicle is moving every day, one needs to measure the pressure after 8-10 days.”

It’s A Current Way to Take Care of A Car

Nitrogen is much drier than compressed air and that assists with the regulation of tyre pressure and temperatures during long drives and summer heat. It also causes less rubber damage and corrosion of the metal rims that clench the tyres.

Chris also stated that compressed air has more water and oxygen which usually results in a quick reaction with the fluctuating temperatures within the tyres. This can lead to those dreaded tyre blowouts.

Money Well Spent

Nitrogen may not be free at air pumps or service stations, but it’s vital to consider the nominal amount of Rs 4-45 for a four-wheeler and Rs 10 for 2-wheeler vehicles – It lasts longer and supports the longevity of tyres.

“Expect fewer opportunities of wear and tear when using nitrogen,” says Chris. “The pressure doesn’t have to be measured as often as one would with compressed air.” This means that there is money to be saved on tyre maintenance, which is always welcome.

Mixing Nitrogen and Compressed Air

It can happen that a tyre has been filled up with nitrogen but has low pressure. The good thing here is that one can always top it up with compressed gas if there are no nitrogen pumps in the vicinity and proves no harm to the tyre.

For those who already have nitrogen filled in their car tyres, but realise that the pressure is low, they can always top it up with compressed gas if they are not able to find a nitrogen pump.

It is The Choice of the Vehicle Owner

Nitrogen does prove to have more technological advantages over air, but those advantages can always differ when considering that people use their cars in various ways. However, to wrap this up, opt for nitrogen if a vehicle falls in one or more of the categories below:

• If a vehicle owner has one or more cars that are primarily used at the racetrack.
• If a vehicle is used very sparingly and sits unused for an extended time.
• If someone owns collectible cars that are seldom driven any great distances.
• If one has to put a car in storage for a significant period of time.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast | Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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Tyre noise can also be the result of underlying matters, such as abnormal tyre wear or even a broken belt. Branigans Budget Tyres expert and owner, Chris Lett suggests the five following pointers to solve the problem.

Check (And If Needed) Alter Door Seals

Door seals are the bulky, rubber gaskets that frame the car door. Should the door seals not be tightly installed, the vehicle door may not shut properly and the gap between the seal and the door may cause noise that comes from the road and not the tyres.

Checking the fitment of the seals will allow for the door to shut properly since the rattling of the vehicle sometimes causes them to loosen over time.

Regular Tyre Checks

No expertise required here. It’s easy to hop in a car and drive off, but routine inspections do go a long way. Instead of replacing tyres on the fly, apply a visual inspection of the tyres. Grab those rubber gloves and feel the wheel. Chris also says that “a good spin of the wheel helps to see how it rotates. I usually start with the rear ones.”

“To take things to the next level, I would switch up tyres, by bringing the back ones to the front and vice versa, but treads must be even,” Chris adds.

Soundproof Car Cabin Floor

The cabin floors of a vehicle and the interior of the car itself can be significantly affected by the tyre gears where the transmission of tyre noise happens. The best way forward is to soundproof the cabin floor of the vehicle. Thick rugs with a rubber base that allows for sound absorption helps a lot to fade out tyre noise.

Soundproof Car Doors

If there is no issue with the doors of the car and the cabin floor has been soundproofed, there is more that can be done to shut out tyre noise.

There is quite a process to this, but the best material to use to mute most of the ambient noise would be the Noico 80 mil Sound Deadening Mat. This is an excellent material that eliminates noise and rattles. For heat & cool insulation, closed-cell foam liner material that is designed specifically for thermal insulation of the vehicle may work better.

Make Sure Tyres are Fully Inflated

Underinflated tyres can make more noise because they have a much larger contact range with the surface of the road. Making sure that tyres are fully inflated with the correct air pressure-volume is one of the easiest ways to reduce the tyre noise of a car. Better yet, properly inflated tyres do great things for gas mileage.

Each tyre’s pressure ought to be checked every month, and the best route to take would be when the tyres are still cold after being parked for a few hours or more.

Noisy tyres can be the result of many things, but thankfully, there are various solutions available to mitigate the problems at home. If not, there is always Branigans Tyres.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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When it comes to punctures, usually caused by sharp objects on the road, a vehicle can still be driven for a short distance with the puncture before the tyre completely deflates. However, a puncture can also result in a blowout, which happens when there is an immediate release of air in the tyre.

How to Know If a Tyre is Flat or Has a Slow Puncture

In most cases, a good sign to look out for while driving is if the car drifts or pulls in one direction. This is an indication that one of the tyres has a puncture. However, with run-flats, it may be harder to detect punctures as these types of tyres allow them to be used without air for a short distance. Hence the importance of checking one’s tyre pressure as frequently as possible.

In the case of tyre blowouts, which is honestly the most stressful for most drivers, the trick is to be cognizant of what happens before, during and after experiencing a tyre blowout. So, before the tyre blowout happens, the driver needs to be aware of the state in which the tyres were before the journey started.

For example, if the tyres were over/under-inflated. During a tyre blowout, it’s imperative to be aware of any potholes or any sort of impact that could have caused the tyre blowout. Finally, after the tyre blowout has happened the driver needs to find the nearest safe spot to park and do further assessments of the affected tyre, then call for help.

A few more signs that a tyre has a puncture include the shuddering of a vehicle’s wheels and heavy steering or difficulty in steering the vehicle.

Safety Tips in Case of a Tyre Puncture or Blowout

When faced with the terrors of a tyre puncture and blowout, applying these tips can help any driver bring a vehicle to a controlled stop, without panic and without risk of causing road accidents.

– Both hands must be kept on the steering wheel and any sudden movements or steering should be avoided.

– The driver needs to reach for the hazards button to alert other drivers of the situation.

– Acceleration should not be stopped abruptly. Instead, this should be done slowly to maintain control of the vehicle.

– Brakes should be applied slowly to bring the vehicle to a stop. The instinct of any driver is to slam the brakes. This is what causes the vehicles to swerve and even results in some cars flipping over, which is what we’re trying to avoid here.

– Park the car and contact emergency roadside assistance. Do not try to drive to a service station as this can put the driver as well as other motorists in danger.

Drivers can avoid punctures and blowouts to a certain extent. It’s important to make a habit out of monitoring a vehicle’s tyre pressure. This sounds like too much admin, but it is quite necessary.  Some helpful advice would be to include tyre checks in fuel stop to-do lists.

Every time we stop to refuel a vehicle, the tyre pressure needs to be checked. Wheel alignment also needs to be checked on a regular basis since this affects overall tyre wear.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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The intrinsic development of new tyre technology will ultimately redefine how vehicles are driven and it will illustrate how pressure monitoring systems, for instance, have helped maximise the use of tyres. As the digital sphere of the planet expands, eco-friendly tyre options are produced. On the flip side, electricity is something that seems to be finding its way into tyre production as well.

Chris Lett, tyre expert, and owner of Branigans Budget Tyres suggest “tyres have been material and mechanical for so long, but the electrical dimension is now where it’s at and will change the way cars perform.”

Smart Tyres

These types of tyres were projected to make a big wave in the automotive industry, but for a long time, nothing came of it. That is until the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show blew everyone’s caps off with presentations of Smart Tyre concepts by manufacturers like Sumitomo Rubber Industries. They presented tyres with a sensing core, active thread and performance-sustaining technology that assists in the alteration of tyre pressure.

Adjustable wheel concepts have now seeped into the market and allow the driver to control the amount of rubber contacting the surface and varies the car tyre pressure based on road conditions.

Electrical Tyres

Electrical tyres are undoubtedly the future. There is potential for these tyres to reign supreme in the automotive industry with optimised convenience and safety in driving while its restorative technology will lower the costs of tyre management.

3D Printed Tyres

While this concept is not too far removed from smart tyres, 3D printed tyres will redefine how vehicles are designed, produced and maintained. Biodegradable material use in production can make the 3D printed tyre evolution reach greater heights and would mean that tyres can be 3D printed from a variety of recycled materials.

This conceptual tyre technology will be one step closer to ultimate vehicle performance at a fraction of the cost basic management and repairs cost now.

Run-Flat Tyres

Don’t be fooled by the name. This is a contemporary tyre technology development which, simply put, means a vehicle is capable of running with punctured tyres. Run-flat options are a way to increase car durability and ensure better road safety, but it is also said to assist with minimisation of fuel consumption.

Most conventional tyres puncture easily, they aren’t made with the environment in mind and most importantly, it doesn’t always ensure one’s safety. The way forward is with durable, eco-friendly tyres that are designed to keep not only the car in mind but also the person driving it.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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Chris Lett, tyre expert, and owner of Branigans Budget Tyres, advises that tyre traction (among other factors) affects one’s ability to keep control when braking suddenly, and also impacts on the safety of doing so. So, in essence, the brakes of any vehicle bring turning wheels to a stop and apply the grip (and its traction) that brings the entire vehicle to a stop.

Not all tyres offer the same traction since they’re made for different environments and various weather and road conditions to ensure safety on roads.

“Tyres have a higher traction rating if they’ve got a good grip and don’t skid or slide. When it comes to choosing tyres with good wet traction, one needs to look at the tread patterns. These tread patterns that have deep grooves ensure that water is kept out from under the tyre avoiding hydroplaning due to improved wet traction ratings,” Lett says.

The type of tyres chosen for a vehicle is thus, greatly dependent on the environment and road conditions that the tyres will be subjected to. For example, dry traction is favoured in areas that don’t experience much rain whereas some vehicles may require tyres with traction suitable for wet and rainy weather or snow.

The Different Types of Tyres With Traction for Different Terrains

“Tyres are designed to withstand different weather and road conditions. It’s important to keep this in mind when selecting the right tyres for a vehicle,” Lett says.

For higher weather temperatures, summer tyres provide good grip in both wet and dry conditions. When temperatures decrease below 7 °C the tyres tend to experience loss of grip. This is when the tyres need to be changed to winter tyres that ensure an advanced grip as they’re more appropriate for wet or snowy weather conditions.

A combination of summer tyres and winter tyres are called all-season tyres and is the type of tyre that most vehicle owners opt for in moderate weather patterns and road conditions. In contrast to all-terrain selections, which provide excellent grip on different road conditions such as dirt roads or tar roads, to name a few. This is due to the tread patterns of all-terrain tyres being more robust in texture than those of all-season ones.

High-performance tyres are just that: They’re enhanced for high-speed passenger vehicles and deliver maximised grip. More recently, energy-saving options have also become more popular among drivers of passenger vehicles, especially since they can withstand dry, wet, and winter traction – and are kinder to the environment.

Keeping an Eye on Tyre Traction

Tyres play an important role in ensuring vehicle and road safety. For excellent tyre traction, the tyre tread needs to be observed to ensure that they’re not smoothed out. Smoothed out tyres can lead to accidents when they’re used in wet conditions and may also cause what is known as aquaplaning.

If the tread appears smooth it may be a good time to have those tyres checked out by an expert. At Branigans Tyres, nothing goes amiss. All second-hand tyres are carefully checked for their functional lifespan and are graded for age and tread before being sold to clients.

For assistance in finding the best tyres suited for any vehicle, Branigans Tyres is the way to go and as experts, they consider changes in weather and road conditions, as well as preferences based on personal driving styles.

For further information, visit or call Chris and his team at Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres by contacting the Service Centres in Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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He says that by rotating tyres, uneven and excessive tread wear is balanced out, and the lifespan of the tyre is preserved, saving car owners from the costly experience of prematurely replacing tyres that are badly worn on one side.

However, Lett says that rotating tyres is not always as simple as it sounds. There are a number of factors to consider, with the main one being that not all tyres can be rotated, so when thinking of attempting to rotate tyres at home, it’s well worth doing some research beforehand.

Types of Tyres that can be Rotated

Lett explains, “If the tyres are directional tyres, meaning the tread pattern is designed to work in only one direction, they can only be rotated between the front and back, but not swapped sideways across the car from left to right (or right to left), as this would mean the tread would be pointing in the wrong direction.

Non-directional tyres which are all the same size can be switched between front and back, from left to right, and even diagonally. In performance cars, which usually use staggered tyre sizes, with larger tyres at the back can only be rotated with a matching size, and therefore the switch can only be made from side to side.

Wheel size is also an important factor, according to Chris Lett. He says some vehicles have the same size tyres, but some have wheels with slightly different offsets, which again means they are not the same as those on the opposing end of the car. Lett says they can therefore only be rotated from side to side, and, once again, that is only if the tyres are not directional. The differences may not be noticeable to the eye, so checking the owner’s manual for the specs on wheel sizes is advisable.

How to Rotate Tyres

Lett advises that all tyres should be marked as they come off the wheel to avoid confusion later on. The process can be complicated and it is easy to lose track of which tyre came off which wheel.

“The simplest rotation is rotating the front and back tyres. This is done by placing a jack at the front and back wheels, and using the multiple jack points available on the vehicle as described in the owner’s manual.

Ensure the jacks are stable before removing the wheels by blocking the wheels that are still on the ground in order to prevent movement. If all four tyres are to be rotated, four jacks will be needed,” Lett says.

There are two rotation methods that can be applied, one of them more dangerous for those who are inexperienced. This involves raising the car on all four jacks and changing the tyres round with the vehicle off the ground. A more time consuming but less risky option is to raise and lower the car a few times to complete each rotation separately.

Rotating tyres can be complex. Speak to an expert to get the right advice. Visit or call Chris and his team for Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres at Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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No Spare but Some Savings

Lett says that with the introduction of stricter CO2 standards, manufacturers have been challenged with reducing vehicle emissions, and have been forced to come up with some innovative changes. Reducing the weight of the vehicles by disposing of spare tyres (and their follow-ups), as well as the tools supplied to fit them, was just one of them.

Ridding the car of all of these does reduce CO2 emissions as well as fuel consumption, but by very small amounts, Lett said. It also opens up space in the car, which would have been taken up by the spare and the tools. And all that replaces it is a repair kit, and a lack of security in the driver.

Looking at the Different Types of Spare Tyres

“ It’s legal and quite possible but not necessarily cheap for an owner to buy a spare wheel or tyre to bring back that sense of safety and security should he or she find themselves sitting on the side of the road. But it’s important that any spare tyre bought independently is the right one for the car,” he said. “The buyer must take this perfect match into account when buying a spare for a new vehicle, as the added cost involved or difficulty in finding a suitable spare might even influence their choice of which vehicle they want to buy.”

Space-saver spare wheel: A space-saver spare wheel is an emergency spare wheel and tyre which is lighter and smaller than a full-size spare, but can be used until the damaged tyre is repaired. “It’s safe and effective if driven no faster than 50mph (80 km/h) for a maximum distance of about 50 miles. But it’s important to keep in mind that the safety and performance of the vehicle will be compromised, so the wheel should be replaced as soon as possible,” says Lett.

Run-flat tyres: These tyres have a reinforced sidewall that allows for continuing to drive on the damaged tyre for up to 50 miles provided that’s done at reduced speed. Lett says these

are a popular choice because of the convenience of not having to stop to replace the damaged tyre. However, he does caution that they are limited to only being able to handle minor tyre damage, and have a shorter life span of around 6000 miles.

Tyre repair kit: Most vehicles now come with a tyre repair kit as the only resource for when a drive is curtailed by tyre problems. This consists of a bottle of sealant and an electric compressor, which according to Lett is not ideal. He says the sealant does not work on larger leaks, and the adhesive makes it difficult to repair the tyre fully, but it will cover most minor punctures.

Speaking to an expert about spare tyres will ensure the right advice, and contacting Chris Lett, owner of Branigans Tyres, is the ideal way to get it for those who live in Queensland. Branigans Tyres offers top quality, hardly-used second hand tyres at less than half the price of new ones, and he’s been doing so for more than 15 years.

For further information and assistance in choosing the right replacement tyres, visit or call Chris and his team for Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres Service Centre at Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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Lett says drivers , while keeping the cost of the tyres (and fitting them) as well as the size of their budget in mind, should also find out as much as they can about the structure, operation and performance of the tyres on offer before making a choice, in order to ensure they are making the right one.

Not all Tyres are Created Equal

According to Lett, tyres vary and will have differing effects on fuel consumption; the level of road noise they make; how they perform in various weather and road conditions; what kind of load they are able to carry, and how safe they are on the road.

“Taking a look at how these factors can influence the cost of running the car, as well as the safety, lifespan and performance of the tyres, can ultimately lead to the right choice being an investment, rather than just an expenditure,” Lett says.

Checklist For Choosing Tyres

Fuel Efficiency: Lessening Fuel Consumption and Upping Eco-Friendliness can be a double winner for both wallet and soul. Choosing this approach can save running costs by reducing the fuel costs by anything from 3 to 10%, while at the same time contributing to saving the environment by reducing the vehicle’s emissions.

Finding out exactly how fuel-efficient tyres are, can be done by checking where they rank on the fuel efficiency level ratings listed from A to G. A is at the top of the class, and G is classified as being the least fuel efficient. The level of efficiency is determined by the tyres’ rolling resistance, or how much energy (and therefore fuel) is lost in the process of getting those tyres to roll smoothly and easily, and to keep them doing so consistently. The higher the resistance is, the more fuel is used, and the lower the tyre’s fuel efficiency will be, while low rolling resistance requires less fuel, and therefore leads to a higher rank in terms of fuel efficiency.

Wet Grip: For safety reasons, Lett recommends that drivers check another set of A-G ratings. This time the list reveals how well the tyres cope with dispersing water on wet roads which can negatively affect braking distance, and increase the risk of accidents in poor weather conditions, Lett says.

Keeping Quiet: Some tyres purr, while others seem to make a good deal of noise. Lett says those wanting to enjoy a quiet drive and avoid the stress created by loud road noise, should check the number of decibels particular tyres produce.

Brand Names are Important

Lett says brand names do play a major role in finding the right tyres for a vehicle as these have been carefully designed and produced to match the individual needs of both drivers and the vehicles they drive, and this is even more important when considering purchasing recycled tyres.

At Branigans, available tyres sport names like Avon, Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, Firestone, Dunlop, and Goodyear, and have hardly been used. All are carefully checked for their functional life-span, and are graded for age and tread before being sold for a fraction of what the same tyres would cost new.

For further information and assistance in choosing the right replacement tyres, visit or call Chris and his team for Second Hand Tyres Gold Coast |Branigans Budget Tyres Service Centre at Burleigh Heads (07) 5535 2660 or Southport (07) 5591 8633.

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