Tyre Buying Guide: Eight Tips On How To Buy Tyres Online

These eight tips help you avoid the most common mistakes when buying tyres online or in-store — from wrong sizing to ignoring the spare.

1. Match or exceed OE load and speed

Never downgrade below what the placard specifies unless you have professional advice in writing.

2. Replace in pairs or sets on driven axles

Uneven diameters across an axle can stress diffs and stability control, especially on AWD vehicles.

3. Read the EU label or UTQG where shown

Fuel efficiency, wet grip, and noise are comparable across listings — use them alongside owner reviews.

4. Budget for alignment

If you see inner or outer shoulder wear, fix geometry before new rubber goes on.

5. Check date codes on delivery

Tyres slowly age in storage. A fresh set should typically be within a few years of manufacture for daily drivers.

6. Don’t ignore the spare

If you still carry a full-size or space-saver spare, confirm it holds pressure and matches legal tread requirements.

7. Consider seasonal reality

Most of Australia runs all-season or summer-biased patterns; true winter tyres are rare outside alpine use but matter if you ski regularly.

8. Keep a paper trail

Save invoices and kilometre at fitment — essential for mileage warranties and resale documentation.