Question 1

How do I know when my tyres need replacing?

Accepted Answer

Replace your tyres when the tread reaches the wear indicators, when tread depth drops below 1.6 mm, when you can see sidewall cracks or bulges, or when the tyre is more than five to six years old — even if it still has tread left. In South Africa the legal minimum is 1 mm, but safety experts recommend replacing at 1.6 mm or earlier, especially before the rainy season. Other warning signs include uneven wear, frequent pressure loss, and a spare that has been sitting unused for years.

Question 2

How long do tyres last?

Accepted Answer

Most tyres last between 40,000 km and 80,000 km of driving, but the real answer depends on how you drive, the tyre type and your vehicle. Tyres also age: rubber hardens and cracks over time, so a tyre should generally be replaced every five to six years from its date of manufacture regardless of kilometres covered. Regular rotation, correct pressure and wheel alignment are the three biggest factors in reaching the upper end of that range.

Question 3

How do I read my tyre size?

Accepted Answer

A tyre size marked 205/55 R16 91V breaks down as follows: 205 is the tread width in millimetres, 55 is the sidewall height as a percentage of the width, R means radial construction, and 16 is the rim diameter in inches. The 91 is the load index and V is the speed rating. You will find your vehicle's correct size on the driver's door jamb, inside the fuel flap, in the owner's manual, or on the sidewall of the tyres currently fitted.

Question 4

What do the load index and speed rating mean?

Accepted Answer

The load index is a code for the maximum weight a single tyre can carry — 91, for example, equals 615 kg per tyre. The speed rating is a letter for the maximum sustained speed the tyre is approved for — V means 240 km/h. You should always fit tyres that meet or exceed the load index and speed rating your vehicle manufacturer specifies. Fitting a lower rating can affect handling, insurance cover and safety.

Question 5

Can I fit a different tyre size to my car?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes, but only within strict limits. Changing the overall diameter by more than about 3% can affect your speedometer, gearing, ABS and clearance inside the wheel arch. If you want to change size — for example fitting a wider or lower-profile tyre — the safest approach is to check your vehicle's approved alternative sizes in the owner's manual, or contact us with your vehicle details and we will confirm what will fit.

Question 6

What is the difference between budget, mid-range and premium tyres?

Accepted Answer

Budget tyres cost less and generally deliver shorter tread life, longer wet-weather braking distances and more road noise. Mid-range tyres balance price and performance and suit most everyday drivers. Premium tyres cost the most but typically give the shortest wet braking distances, the longest wear life and the lowest noise, which often makes them cheaper per kilometre over their life. Tyres are the only thing connecting your car to the road, so they are the wrong place to save on safety.

Question 7

Are expensive tyres really worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes — tyres are a safety component, not a cosmetic one. Independent braking tests consistently show premium tyres stopping several car lengths shorter than budget tyres on wet roads, and premium rubber usually lasts significantly longer. When you divide the purchase price by the kilometres you actually get, the gap between budget and premium often shrinks considerably. If budget is tight, a good mid-range tyre is a better compromise than the cheapest option available.

Question 8

Should I replace two tyres or all four?

Accepted Answer

Ideally replace all four together so grip and wear stay balanced. If that is not possible, replace in pairs on the same axle — never mix a new tyre with a worn one on the same axle, because the difference in grip can cause the car to pull or spin in an emergency. Best practice is to fit the new pair on the rear axle, even on a front-wheel-drive car, because rear grip is what keeps the car stable under braking.

Question 9

Do I need wheel alignment when I buy new tyres?

Accepted Answer

It is strongly recommended. If your old tyres wore unevenly — especially on one inner or outer edge — the alignment was likely out, and fitting new tyres without correcting it means the new set wears out the same way. Basic alignment measurement is quick and inexpensive, and it protects the money you have just spent on tyres. We recommend checking alignment at least once a year or every 10,000 km, and immediately after hitting a pothole or kerb hard.

Question 10

Where do I find my tyre size?

Accepted Answer

Your tyre size is printed on the sidewall of the tyres currently fitted to your car — look for a number like 195/65 R15. It is also printed on the tyre placard inside the driver's door jamb, on the inside of the fuel filler flap, and in the vehicle owner's manual. If you are unsure, photograph the sidewall and send it to us and we will identify the correct size for you.

Question 11

What does the R mean in a tyre size?

Accepted Answer

The R stands for Radial, which describes how the tyre is constructed — the internal cords run radially from bead to bead, at right angles to the direction of travel. Almost every modern car tyre sold in South Africa is a radial tyre. You may occasionally see a D or a dash on older or commercial tyres, which indicates a diagonal or cross-ply construction.

Question 12

What is a runflat tyre and can I fit them to my car?

Accepted Answer

A runflat tyre has a reinforced sidewall that lets you keep driving after a puncture — typically around 80 km at up to 80 km/h — so you can reach a fitment centre safely. Runflats should only be fitted to vehicles designed for them, usually those with a tyre pressure monitoring system and no spare wheel. Fitting runflats to a car that was not designed for them can make the ride harsh and may not be safe. Check your vehicle specification or ask us before switching.

Question 13

What is the difference between passenger, SUV and 4x4 tyres?

Accepted Answer

Passenger tyres are built for comfort, low noise and fuel efficiency on tarred roads. SUV tyres are a middle ground: they carry more weight and offer a stronger sidewall for the extra mass of an SUV, while still behaving well on tar. 4x4 tyres are the toughest of the three, with thicker sidewalls and deeper, more aggressive tread for gravel, mud and rough terrain. Fitting a 4x4 tyre to a passenger car wastes money and increases noise and fuel consumption.

Question 14

What does UHP mean on a tyre?

Accepted Answer

UHP stands for Ultra High Performance. UHP tyres are engineered for higher speed ratings, sharper steering response and maximum grip, usually with a softer compound and a stiffer sidewall. They suit performance cars and sporty driving. The trade-off is that softer compounds generally wear faster and can cost more, so they are not the most economical choice for everyday commuting.

Question 15

Can I mix tyre brands on my car?

Accepted Answer

You should avoid mixing brands on the same axle. Different makes use different rubber compounds and tread patterns, which means different grip levels — and mismatched grip side to side or front to rear can unsettle the car during emergency braking or in the wet. A matched set of four is ideal. If your budget only allows two, fit a matching pair on the same axle and put them on the rear.

Question 16

What is a tyre date code and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Every tyre carries a DOT date code — four digits, usually in an oval on the sidewall. The first two digits are the week and the last two are the year of manufacture, so 2126 means the 21st week of 2026. Rubber ages even when a tyre is not used, so a tyre that has been sitting for years is not the same as a new one. As a rule, avoid fitting tyres older than five to six years, and ask for the date code when buying.

Question 17

Do I need special tyres for a truck, bus or commercial fleet?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Commercial, truck and bus tyres are built with much higher load indexes, tougher casings and tread patterns designed for long-distance, high-load running. Using passenger or SUV tyres on a commercial vehicle is both illegal if it does not meet the load rating and dangerous. We supply commercial and truck & bus tyre ranges, and can advise on load ratings and the right specification for your fleet.

Question 18

What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

South African law requires a minimum tread depth of 1 mm across the full width and around the entire circumference of the tyre. Anything below that is illegal and your vehicle can fail a roadworthy test or an insurance claim can be rejected. However, 1 mm is a legal floor, not a safe target: wet-weather grip drops sharply below 1.6 mm, so most tyre manufacturers and safety bodies recommend replacing tyres at 1.6 mm, and consider 3 mm the point to start budgeting for a new set.

Question 19

How do I check my tread depth at home?

Accepted Answer

Every tyre has small raised blocks called tread wear indicators set into the main grooves — when the tread is level with those blocks, the tyre is at the 1.6 mm limit and must be replaced. For a more precise reading, use an inexpensive tread depth gauge from any hardware store, or place a R5 coin into the groove: if you can still see the top of the number, your tread is getting low. Check at several points across each tyre, not just one spot.

Question 20

What tyre pressure should I use?

Accepted Answer

Use the pressure stated on your vehicle's tyre placard — inside the driver's door jamb, the fuel flap or the owner's manual. That figure is set by the manufacturer for your specific car and load, and it is more accurate than a number printed on the tyre sidewall, which is only a maximum. Check pressures at least once a month when the tyres are cold, and remember to increase pressure for heavy loads or long trips.

Question 21

Why are my tyres wearing unevenly?

Accepted Answer

The pattern tells you the cause. Worn on both outer edges usually means under-inflation. Worn down the centre means over-inflation. Worn on one inside or outside edge points to incorrect wheel alignment, often from camber. Bald patches in one spot suggest a locked brake, a flat spot or a balance problem. Cupping or scalloped wear usually indicates worn suspension or shock absorbers. Fixing the underlying cause is the only way to stop the new set wearing the same way.

Question 22

How often should I rotate my tyres?

Accepted Answer

Rotate your tyres every 8,000 km to 10,000 km, or at every second service, whichever comes first. Rotation moves each tyre to a different position on the vehicle so that wear is spread evenly across all four, which can extend the life of the set by around 20%. It is quick, inexpensive and one of the highest-return habits a car owner can build. If your vehicle has a staggered or directional setup, ask us for the correct rotation pattern.

Question 23

How often do I need wheel alignment and balancing?

Accepted Answer

Have wheel alignment checked at least once a year or every 10,000 km, and immediately after hitting a pothole or kerb hard. Wheel balancing is needed whenever you feel vibration through the steering wheel or seat, and whenever a new tyre is fitted with a different rim. Alignment corrects the angle of the wheels; balancing corrects the distribution of weight around the wheel. They are different jobs and you often need both.

Question 24

What causes vibration in the steering wheel?

Accepted Answer

Vibration through the steering wheel most commonly means the front wheels are out of balance, though it can also be caused by a buckled rim, unevenly worn tyres, incorrect alignment or worn suspension and steering components. If the vibration appears at a specific speed — typically 80 to 120 km/h — the wheels are the most likely cause. If it happens under braking, warped brake discs are the usual culprit. Have the wheels balanced first; it is the cheapest fix and often solves the problem.

Question 25

How far can I drive on a spare tyre or a runflat?

Accepted Answer

A temporary or space-saver spare is designed for short distances only — usually no more than about 80 km, at a maximum of 80 km/h — and it should be replaced with a full tyre as soon as possible. A runflat tyre lets you drive roughly 80 km at up to 80 km/h after a puncture, depending on load and conditions. Driving further or faster on either can damage the wheel and put you at risk. Neither is a permanent solution.

Question 26

Why is my car pulling to one side?

Accepted Answer

If your car pulls consistently to one side, the most common causes are incorrect wheel alignment, unequal tyre pressures, a tyre with a manufacturing defect or internal damage, a sticking brake caliper, or worn suspension components. Start by checking all four tyre pressures — it is free and rules out the simplest cause. If pressures are correct and the pull continues, have the alignment and suspension checked.

Question 27

Do I need winter tyres in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

For the vast majority of South African drivers, no. Most of the country sees mild winters and standard summer or high-performance tyres are the right choice. Winter tyres are only worth considering if you regularly drive in snow, which in South Africa generally means specific high-altitude routes, or if you travel into icy conditions. For gravel and rough-road driving, an all-terrain or 4x4 tyre is usually the more useful upgrade.

Question 28

Are cracked tyres safe to drive on?

Accepted Answer

No. Cracking in the sidewall or between the tread blocks means the rubber has aged, dried out or been damaged by UV and ozone, and the structural integrity of the tyre is no longer reliable. Small surface crazing on very old rubber is a warning sign; deep cracks that reach the cords are a replacement-now item regardless of tread depth. Cracked tyres are a common cause of blowouts, especially at speed or under load.

Question 29

How do I buy tyres online from The Tyre Mall?

Accepted Answer

Browse our shop by tyre size or by category, add the tyres you need to your cart, and check out online. You can shop 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are not sure which size or specification to choose, send us your vehicle details or a photo of your current tyre sidewall and our team will confirm the correct option before you order.

Question 30

Do you offer free delivery?

Accepted Answer

Yes — delivery is free on orders of two or more tyres, anywhere in South Africa. Order two, four or a full set and no delivery charge is added at checkout, whether you are in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town or a smaller town. Single-tyre orders are the only exception, so if you need just one tyre, ask us for the delivery cost before you order. Free delivery on two or more tyres is one of the main reasons our customers buy online.

Question 31

How long does delivery take?

Accepted Answer

Nationwide delivery normally takes three to five working days from the day your order is processed. If you place your order after 3pm, allow one extra working day for processing. Please keep your phone nearby after ordering, as the courier may call for directions. You will receive order confirmation by email, so you can track what you are expecting. If your area is remote, tell us when you order and we will confirm the expected date.

Question 32

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept standard card payments and EFT, as well as Buy Now Pay Later through HappyPay, so you can split the cost of your tyres instead of paying the full amount up front. Buy Now Pay Later lets you fit quality tyres immediately and pay them off over time, which is especially useful when you need a full set of four at once.

Question 33

Can I pay for my tyres in instalments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Through our HappyPay payment partner you can spread the cost of your tyres rather than paying the full amount in one go. This is ideal when you need a full set of four tyres, or when you want premium tyres but would prefer to manage the cost monthly. Approval is handled by the payment provider at checkout.

Question 34

Do you deliver to my area in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we deliver nationwide across South Africa, including major metros, outlying towns and rural areas. Delivery is free on orders of two or more tyres. If you are unsure whether your area is covered, contact us with your suburb or postal code and we will confirm before you order. Delivery normally takes three to five working days, so factor that in if you are booking fitment.

Question 35

Where do I get tyres fitted if I buy them online?

Accepted Answer

You pay for the tyres only, then have them fitted at an independent fitment centre in your area. That fitment centre sets and charges its own fitment price — the charge is between you and the store, and The Tyre Mall has no bearing on it, no control over it and takes no part of it. We recommend phoning ahead to book, and asking them to check your wheel alignment at the same time. If you need advice on the right specification before ordering, our team can help.

Question 36

What happens if I order the wrong tyre size?

Accepted Answer

Check your size carefully before ordering — it is printed on your current tyre's sidewall and on the vehicle placard. If you do order the wrong size, contact us immediately; if the tyres are unused and still in their original packaging, they can be returned within our 14 working day returns window. We would far rather help you confirm the correct size before you order than sort out a return afterwards, so please ask if you are unsure.

Question 37

Is it safe to buy tyres online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, provided you buy from a reputable supplier. Look for a business with a traceable reputation, clear contact details, a published returns policy and secure payment options. The tyres you receive should carry the same date codes, load indexes and speed ratings as any fitted at a physical store. Buying online simply removes the fitment-centre convenience markup — the product itself is identical, and it comes with the same manufacturer warranty.

Question 38

How do I know you have my tyre size in stock?

Accepted Answer

Our catalogue lists our live range, so if a size appears on the site it is available to order. You can browse by vehicle or by tyre size using our shop filters. If you cannot find the size you need, or if you need a rare or commercial specification, contact us with the size and quantity and we will confirm availability for you.

Question 39

What tyre brands does The Tyre Mall stock?

Accepted Answer

We stock a full range of tyre brands across every category we sell. Premium and international brands include Continental, Pirelli, Michelin, Goodyear, Dunlop, Bridgestone (including Dueler), Firestone, General Tire, BFGoodrich, Sava, Sumitomo, Falken, Yokohama, Ceat and Triangle. Value and budget brands include Radar, Anchee, Annaite, Tracmax, Windforce, Kapsen, Landsail, Timax, American Roadstar, Firemax and Landspider. Different brands suit different priorities — some lead on wet braking, others on tread life, noise or price. Tell us what matters most and your budget, and we will point you to the best match.

Question 40

What is Radar Protect road hazard protection?

Accepted Answer

Radar Protect is a 12-month road hazard protection programme that comes with selected Radar tyres. Cover runs until the earlier of 12 months from purchase or the first 4 mm of tread wear, and it covers non-repairable damage from road hazards such as nails, glass, potholes, cuts and impact breaks. It excludes normal tread wear, punctures that can be repaired, damage from incorrect inflation or misalignment, and tyres used for commercial or fleet purposes. Fitting, balancing and shipping on a replacement tyre are for your account. Only Radar tyres marked on our site as including Radar Protect are covered, so check the product page before you buy.

Question 41

What categories of tyres and wheels do you sell?

Accepted Answer

We sell eight core tyre categories — Passenger, 4x4, SUV, UHP (Ultra High Performance), Runflat, Commercial, Truck & Bus and Bike Tyres — plus mag wheels and rims. Alongside those we run rotating deal categories including Hot Deals, Weekly Deals, Deal of the Month, Clearance Specials, Combo Deals, 3+1 Deals and Last of the Best, with brand-specific specials across every range. Mag wheels and rims can be bought together with tyres so the combination is guaranteed to fit. Changing wheel size? The offset and bolt pattern must match your vehicle, and the overall rolling diameter should stay close to standard so your speedometer stays accurate.

Question 42

Do you sell 4x4 and off-road tyres?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our 4x4 range covers all-terrain tyres for mixed tar and gravel use, mud-terrain tyres for serious off-road conditions, and highway-terrain tyres for 4x4 owners who mostly drive on tar. Choosing the right one comes down to how you actually drive: an aggressive mud tyre on a daily tar commute wastes fuel and generates road noise, while a highway tyre will struggle on heavy gravel.

Question 43

Do you have tyre specials and clearance deals?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we run regular hot deals, clearance specials, combo deals and end-of-range offers across our categories. Specials change frequently and stock on clearance items is limited, so it is worth checking back regularly or following us on social media where we post special offers. If you are buying a full set of four, ask us what bundle pricing is available for your size.

Question 44

Do you sell motorcycle and bike tyres?

Accepted Answer

Yes — our range includes bike tyres alongside car, 4x4, SUV, commercial and truck tyres. As with car tyres, the correct size, load rating and speed rating matter, and motorcycle tyres must be matched to the bike's specification. Send us your bike's make, model and current tyre size and we will confirm what is available.

Question 45

What is your returns policy?

Accepted Answer

You may return your order within 14 working days. Items must come back in the same packaging they arrived in — the original branded box or sealed bag — and securely wrapped so they arrive back with us undamaged. Once we receive the item and confirm it is in a resellable condition, we issue a full refund of the product value to your account. Please contact us before sending anything back so we can guide you through the process. These terms cover tyres and wheels; they do not cover tools or accessories of any sort.

Question 46

My tyres arrived damaged — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

Contact us as soon as you notice the damage. Every order is checked and wrapped carefully before dispatch, but damage can occasionally happen in transit. The most helpful thing you can do is photograph the damage and email us with the images and your order number. Once we have that, you are welcome to phone us and we will arrange collection of the item and send a replacement as quickly as possible.

Question 47

There is an item missing from my order — what now?

Accepted Answer

Give us a call and we will investigate straight away. In some cases items are dispatched separately and will still be on their way. If an item is out of stock, we will have tried to contact you by phone or email, so it is worth checking your inbox and missed calls. Either way, contact us with your order number and we will resolve it as quickly as possible.

Question 48

My order hasn't arrived — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

First check your order confirmation email to confirm what you are expecting and when. If you placed your order after 3pm, allow an extra working day. Keep your phone handy, as the courier may call to ask for more detailed directions to your address. If you are still concerned, call us and we will investigate whether there is a delay on the delivery.

Question 49

Do tyres come with a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Yes. New tyres carry the manufacturer's warranty against manufacturing defects — faults in materials or workmanship. The warranty does not cover damage caused by road hazards such as potholes, nails, glass or kerbs, or uneven wear from misalignment, because those are not manufacturing faults. That is exactly the gap that road hazard cover such as Radar Protect fills. Note that tyre warranties and road hazard cover apply to tyres only — they do not cover tools or accessories of any sort. Keep your invoice, as it is your proof of purchase.

Question 50

How do I contact The Tyre Mall?

Accepted Answer

You can reach our customer service team by phone or email during business hours, and place orders online 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our customer service hours are Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm and Saturday 8:00am to 1:00pm. For the fastest resolution on any order query, have your order number ready before you call.

TYRE FAQ

Buying & Choosing Tyres

Tyre Sizes, Types & Fitment

Safety, Wear & Maintenance

Ordering Online, Delivery & Payment

Brands, Types & Specials

Returns, Warranty & After-Sales

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