CAR REPAIR & SERVICING · INGLEBURN
1 November 2026
Look beyond the tread
Tyres gradually wear as you drive, but the pattern matters. If one shoulder looks more worn than the other, the tread is wearing faster in the centre, or the tyres on one axle look markedly different, it’s worth paying attention.
Uneven wear doesn’t confirm a particular fault on its own. It can be associated with tyre pressure, wheel alignment, or worn steering or suspension components. NSW Government guidance for used-car inspections similarly notes that uneven tyre wear might indicate worn or misaligned steering or suspension. [nsw.gov.au](https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/buying-and-selling-vehicles/buying-a-used-vehicle/vehicle-inspections-checklist)
A quick visual check can help you notice a change, but it can’t diagnose the cause. If wear seems pronounced, appears quickly, or comes with a change in how the car handles, arrange an inspection rather than assuming a wheel alignment alone will solve it.
Check pressures against your vehicle’s recommendation
Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, and the right setting depends on the vehicle and its load. Use the pressure shown on your vehicle’s tyre placard or in the owner’s manual—not a general figure found online. Transport for NSW guidance says the tyre placard specifies the manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure and approved tyre and wheel combinations. [nsw.gov.au](https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-02/RMS-Guideline-for-alternative-wheels-and-tyres-Vehicle-Standards-Information-No-9-November-2003.pdf)
It’s sensible to check pressures regularly, including before a longer trip, and follow the vehicle maker’s instructions on how and when to measure them. If a tyre repeatedly loses pressure, don’t just keep topping it up: have it checked for a puncture, valve problem or other damage.
Under-inflation can also affect fuel use. NSW Government advice notes that under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption. [nsw.gov.au](https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/driving-nsw/roads-safety-and-rules/vehicle-safety-and-compliance/vehicles-and-environment)
Don’t ignore cuts, bumps or a changing feel
When the car is parked safely, look for obvious damage such as cracks, cuts, bulges or objects lodged in the tread. NSW roadworthiness guidance says tyres must be in good condition, inflated to the recommended pressure, and free of cracks, bumps and uneven wear. It also sets a minimum tread depth of 1.5 mm. [nsw.gov.au](https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/driving-nsw/roads-safety-and-rules/vehicle-safety-and-compliance/roadworthiness)
That legal minimum isn’t a reason to wait until a tyre reaches it before seeking advice. If a tyre looks damaged or close to worn out, have it assessed by a qualified tyre professional. Avoid driving on a tyre that appears unsafe; if you’re unsure, get advice about the safest next step.
Pay attention to changes while driving, too. A vehicle that pulls to one side, a steering wheel that no longer sits straight, or vibration may warrant a check. These symptoms can have several causes, so inspection is needed to identify what’s actually happening.
Why fixing the cause matters
Replacing a worn tyre without addressing the reason it wore unevenly may leave the underlying problem in place. Depending on what an inspection finds, the next step could involve tyre condition, wheel alignment, or steering and suspension components. The right approach depends on the vehicle and the evidence—not just the wear pattern.
If you’ve noticed uneven wear, make a note of when it began and any changes in handling, noise or vibration. That context can help guide the inspection, but it doesn’t replace one.
Need your tyres checked?
Automediks in Ingleburn offers **tyres and suspension** and **wheel alignment** services. Contact the workshop to discuss an inspection and the next step for your vehicle.
