Frequently Asked Questions — Value Tyre & Fitment Group

General

What services do you offer?
Value Tyre and Fitment is a full-service tyre and autocare centre offering: tyre sales, tyre fitting, wheel balancing, wheel alignment, puncture repairs, suspension repairs, shock absorbers, brake repairs, clutch replacement, vehicle servicing, batteries, wiper blades, exhaust repairs, and general mechanical repairs.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are always welcome. However, appointments are recommended for vehicle servicing, suspension repairs, brake repairs, clutch replacement, and major repairs. Booking ahead reduces waiting time.
How long does tyre fitting take?
Most tyre fitments take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the number of tyres, whether wheel balancing and alignment are included, and the vehicle type.
Which areas do you service?
We proudly serve customers throughout Cape Town and surrounding areas, with branches in Paarden Island, Cape Town City, and Tokai.
Do you work on all vehicle makes?
Yes. We work on passenger vehicles, SUVs, bakkies, light commercial vehicles, and fleet vehicles.
Do you offer fleet services?
Yes. We provide tyre and maintenance solutions for company fleets, delivery vehicles, government fleets, rental fleets, and business vehicles.

Tyres

Which tyre brands do you stock?
We stock many leading brands including premium, mid-range and budget options. Our range includes tyres suitable for passenger vehicles, SUVs, performance cars, and commercial vehicles — including Continental, Michelin, Dunlop, Goodyear, Pirelli, Cooper, BF Goodrich, and more.
How do I know which tyre size I need?
Your tyre size can be found on the tyre sidewall, in your owner's manual, or on the driver's door pillar. For example: 195/55R15.
Can I fit a different tyre size?
Sometimes. Changing tyre size affects speedometer accuracy, fuel economy, vehicle handling, and ground clearance. Always ask our experts before changing tyre sizes.
Can you help me choose the right tyres?
Absolutely. We'll recommend tyres based on your budget, driving style, vehicle type, mileage, and road conditions.
Should I replace all four tyres?
Replacing all four tyres provides the best safety, grip, handling, and braking performance. If only two tyres are replaced, they should generally be fitted to the rear axle for improved vehicle stability.
How often should tyres be replaced?
Most tyres last between 40,000 and 80,000 km, depending on driving style, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and tyre quality. Replace tyres when the tread depth reaches the legal minimum, sidewalls are damaged, or tyres show cracking or ageing.
What is the legal tread depth in South Africa?
The legal minimum tread depth is 1 mm across the full circumference of the tyre. For maximum safety, many experts recommend replacing tyres before they reach this limit.
Can tyres expire?
Yes. Even tyres with plenty of tread can deteriorate with age. Most manufacturers recommend careful inspection after five years and replacement after approximately ten years, depending on condition and manufacturer guidance.
How do I check my tyre pressure?
Use a quality tyre pressure gauge and compare the reading with the manufacturer's recommended pressure found inside the driver's door, on the fuel flap, or in the owner's manual.
How often should tyre pressure be checked?
At least once a month and before any long journey.
Can low tyre pressure damage my tyres?
Yes. Incorrect tyre pressure can cause uneven wear, poor fuel economy, reduced handling, increased stopping distance, and tyre failure.
Can over-inflated tyres be dangerous?
Yes. Over-inflation can reduce grip and cause uneven wear.
Why is tyre rotation important?
Tyre rotation helps extend tyre life, promote even wear, and improve handling. Rotation is usually recommended every 8,000–10,000 km.
What causes uneven tyre wear?
Common causes include incorrect wheel alignment, incorrect tyre pressure, worn suspension, poor wheel balancing, and aggressive driving.
Can I repair a puncture?
Many punctures can be safely repaired depending on the location, size, and extent of damage. Not every puncture is repairable.
Is a tyre plug safe?
Temporary emergency plugs should not be considered a permanent repair. Professional repairs are always recommended.
When should a punctured tyre be replaced?
Replacement may be necessary if the sidewall or shoulder area is damaged, the tyre has been driven flat, or the damage is too large to repair safely.

Wheel Alignment

What is wheel alignment?
Wheel alignment adjusts your vehicle's suspension angles so the wheels meet the road correctly.
Why is wheel alignment important?
Proper alignment extends tyre life, improves handling, improves fuel economy, and improves safety.
How often should wheel alignment be done?
Generally every 10,000 km, after replacing tyres, after hitting potholes, and after suspension repairs.
What are signs my vehicle needs wheel alignment?
Signs include the steering pulling left or right, uneven tyre wear, a crooked steering wheel, and the vehicle wandering.
Does wheel balancing replace wheel alignment?
No. Wheel balancing and wheel alignment are different services. Both are important for safety and tyre longevity.

Wheel Balancing

Why is wheel balancing necessary?
Balancing prevents vibration and uneven tyre wear, ensuring a smooth, safe ride.
When should wheels be balanced?
Whenever new tyres are fitted, tyres are rotated, or vibration develops.
What causes steering vibration?
Possible causes include unbalanced wheels, damaged tyres, bent rims, and suspension wear.

Brakes

How do I know my brakes need attention?
Warning signs include squealing or grinding noises, longer stopping distances, the brake warning light illuminating, and the vehicle pulling to one side.
How long do brake pads last?
Most brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 km depending on driving conditions.
Can worn brakes damage other components?
Yes. Ignoring worn brake pads can damage brake discs and significantly increase repair costs.

Suspension

What does the suspension system do?
It keeps your tyres in contact with the road while improving comfort and handling.
How do I know if my shock absorbers are worn?
Common signs include excessive bouncing, nose-diving when braking, uneven tyre wear, poor handling, and oil leaks on the shock body.
Should shocks be replaced in pairs?
Yes. Replacing them in pairs maintains balanced handling across the axle.

Vehicle Servicing

Why is regular vehicle servicing important?
Routine servicing improves reliability, extends engine life, maintains fuel efficiency, and helps prevent expensive repairs.
How often should my vehicle be serviced?
Follow the manufacturer's recommended intervals, typically every 10,000–15,000 km or annually.
Do you use quality replacement parts?
Yes. We fit quality replacement parts from reputable manufacturers.

Batteries

How long does a car battery last?
Typically between 3 and 5 years.
What are signs of a failing battery?
Signs include slow engine cranking, clicking noises when starting, warning lights on the dashboard, and dim headlights.
Can you test my battery?
Yes. We offer battery testing to determine its condition and advise whether replacement is needed.

Wiper Blades

How often should wiper blades be replaced?
Usually every 6–12 months, or sooner if they smear, streak, or skip.
What causes wiper blades to wear out?
Sunlight, heat, dirt, and general age degrade the rubber compound over time.

Warranty

Do your tyres carry a warranty?
Yes. Manufacturer warranties apply where applicable, subject to the manufacturer's warranty terms and inspection.
Will fitting incorrect parts affect my warranty?
Yes. Using incompatible components may void manufacturer warranties.
Are punctures covered by warranty?
Generally, accidental punctures are not covered under standard manufacturer warranties.

Payments

Which payment methods do you accept?
We accept major payment methods including cash, debit cards, credit cards, and EFT (subject to confirmation).
Can I get a quotation before work begins?
Absolutely. We provide quotations before commencing repairs whenever possible.
Are there any hidden costs?
No. Any additional work requiring extra cost will be discussed with you before proceeding.

Safety

Why is tyre safety so important?
Tyres are your vehicle's only contact with the road. Good tyres improve braking, steering, fuel economy, and overall safety.
What should I do if I hit a pothole?
Have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. A pothole can damage tyres, rims, suspension, and wheel alignment.
Is it safe to drive with damaged tyres?
No. Driving on damaged tyres increases the risk of blowouts and loss of control.

Booking

Can I book online?
Yes. Our online booking system allows you to request appointments for tyres, servicing, and repairs.
Can I request a specific tyre brand?
Yes. We'll advise availability and suggest suitable alternatives if necessary.
How can I contact Value Tyre and Fitment?
You can contact your nearest branch by phone, WhatsApp, email, or through our online contact form at valuetyre.co.za/contact.

More Questions We Answer

What is the best tyre brand in South Africa?
Premium brands such as Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, and Dunlop consistently rank among the best in South Africa for safety and longevity. Mid-range options like Cooper and Sumitomo offer excellent value. Our team will recommend the best brand for your budget and driving needs.
Which tyres last the longest?
Premium touring tyres from brands like Michelin and Bridgestone are engineered for maximum mileage — often 60,000–80,000 km. Driving style, road conditions, and correct maintenance significantly affect tyre lifespan.
What tyres are best for wet weather?
Look for tyres with high wet-grip ratings (A or B on EU labels). Quality all-season and performance tyres from Continental, Michelin, and Dunlop excel in Cape Town's wet winter conditions.
How much does wheel alignment cost?
Wheel alignment prices vary by vehicle type. Contact your nearest Value Tyre branch for a current quote — we offer competitive alignment pricing and include a 50% discount on standard alignment every six months for Miles More Value customers.
How much does it cost to fit new tyres?
Fitment costs depend on tyre size and vehicle type. We include fitment, balancing, and valve replacement in our tyre packages. Request a quote via WhatsApp or our contact form for an instant price.
How often should I rotate my tyres?
Every 8,000–10,000 km. Value Tyre customers get free rotation and balancing every 8,000 km for the life of their tyres through our Miles More Value package.
Why does my steering wheel shake at high speed?
High-speed steering vibration is most commonly caused by unbalanced wheels. It can also indicate damaged tyres, bent rims, or worn suspension components — bring your vehicle in for a free inspection.
What causes tyres to wear on the inside?
Inside tyre wear is typically caused by negative camber — a wheel alignment problem. Have your alignment checked immediately to prevent further damage.
Can bad wheel alignment cause vibration?
Yes. Severe misalignment can cause shimmy and vibration, particularly under braking. Correct alignment also prevents uneven tyre wear.
Why is my steering wheel off-centre?
An off-centre steering wheel usually indicates wheel alignment is out. It can also follow suspension repairs or hitting a kerb or pothole.
How long should brake pads last?
Most brake pads last 30,000–70,000 km, depending on driving style and conditions. City driving with frequent stops wears pads faster than highway driving.
How do I know if my shocks are worn?
Signs include the vehicle bouncing excessively over bumps, nose-diving when braking, the rear squatting during acceleration, uneven tyre wear, or oil leaking from the shock body.
What causes a car to pull to one side?
A vehicle pulling left or right is most often caused by wheel misalignment, uneven tyre pressure, or uneven brake wear. Have it inspected promptly for safety.
Is nitrogen better than air in tyres?
Nitrogen maintains pressure more consistently over temperature changes and reduces moisture inside the tyre. While beneficial, the improvement over correctly maintained air pressure is modest for most everyday drivers.
Can I replace only one tyre?
It is possible, but for best safety and handling it is recommended to replace tyres in pairs on the same axle. If replacing two tyres, fit them to the rear axle.
Can I mix tyre brands?
Mixing brands is not recommended as it can affect handling balance. If unavoidable, ensure the same specification is maintained on each axle.
Are budget tyres safe?
Budget tyres meet minimum legal standards, but premium tyres offer significantly shorter stopping distances and better wet-weather grip. Our team can guide you to the best value option for your needs.
What is the difference between wheel balancing and wheel alignment?
Wheel balancing corrects weight imbalances around the tyre and rim to prevent vibration. Wheel alignment adjusts the suspension angles so wheels point in the correct direction. Both are essential for safety and tyre life.
How long does a car service take?
A minor service typically takes 1–2 hours; a major service can take 3–4 hours or more depending on the work required. We recommend booking an appointment to minimise waiting time.
What are the signs my battery needs replacing?
Slow engine cranking, clicking when turning the key, dashboard warning lights, dim headlights, and the battery being more than 4–5 years old are all signs it may need replacing.
Why is my car using more fuel than usual?
Increased fuel consumption can result from under-inflated tyres, a dirty air filter, worn spark plugs, poor wheel alignment, dragging brakes, or an engine that needs servicing.
What is included in a major service?
A major service typically includes an oil and filter change, spark plugs, air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter (if applicable), brake fluid, coolant check, and a comprehensive inspection of all major systems.
What is included in a minor service?
A minor service typically includes an oil and filter change, safety inspection, fluid top-ups, and a general check of brakes, tyres, lights, and belts.
Can worn suspension damage tyres?
Yes. Worn suspension components cause uneven tyre wear and can accelerate tyre deterioration significantly.
What tyre pressure should I use?
Check the label inside your driver's door or the owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended pressure. This is unique to your vehicle and load.
What does 195/55R15 mean?
195 is the tyre width in millimetres, 55 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), R means radial construction, and 15 is the rim diameter in inches.
Can I drive on a repaired puncture?
Yes, if the puncture has been properly repaired by a professional. Avoid driving on a temporary plug repair at high speed or for extended distances.
How long does a clutch last?
Clutches typically last 80,000–150,000 km, but this varies greatly with driving style. Stop-start city driving and towing wear clutches faster.
How often should brake fluid be replaced?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing brake fluid every 2 years or 40,000 km, as it absorbs moisture over time and reduces braking effectiveness.
How do I improve fuel economy?
Keep tyres correctly inflated, maintain correct wheel alignment, service the vehicle regularly, drive smoothly, and avoid excessive idling.
Can I fit bigger wheels to my car?
Yes, within limits. Upsizing wheels requires careful selection of tyre profile to maintain overall rolling diameter and avoid clearance issues. Our experts can advise on suitable fitments.
How do I know when my tyres need replacing?
Replace tyres when the tread depth reaches 1 mm (the legal minimum in South Africa), when you notice sidewall cracking, bulges, persistent vibration, or after approximately 10 years regardless of tread.
What is tyre load index?
The load index is a number on the tyre sidewall that indicates the maximum weight each tyre can safely carry. Always replace tyres with an equal or higher load index than the original.
What is tyre speed rating?
The speed rating is a letter (e.g. H, V, W) indicating the maximum sustained speed the tyre is designed for. Always match or exceed the original speed rating.
How do I read a tyre manufacturing date?
Look for a four-digit DOT code on the sidewall (e.g. 2318). The first two digits are the week and the last two are the year — so 2318 means the 23rd week of 2018.
What is aquaplaning?
Aquaplaning (or hydroplaning) occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tyre and road surface, causing loss of grip and steering control. It is more likely with worn or under-inflated tyres at speed.
Why do tyres crack?
Tyre cracking (dry rot) is caused by UV exposure, ozone, age, and prolonged storage. Cracked tyres should be inspected and replaced if the cracking is deep or widespread.
How often should wheel balancing be done?
At every tyre rotation (every 8,000–10,000 km), whenever new tyres are fitted, or when you notice vibration through the steering wheel or seat.
Can wheel alignment improve fuel economy?
Yes. Misaligned wheels create rolling resistance that forces the engine to work harder. Correct alignment can improve fuel economy by a measurable margin.
How much tread is legally required on tyres in South Africa?
The legal minimum tread depth in South Africa is 1 mm across the full width of the tyre. For optimal safety, consider replacing tyres at 2–3 mm remaining tread.