Tyre maintenance can get pretty complicated. Between tyre pressure, tread depth, wheel alignment, balancing, and punctures, there’s lots to keep track of. Many drivers also struggle to fit tyre maintenance around their busy schedules of work, school runs, and daily errands.
That’s why we have compiled an guide explaining the key tyre services at Halfords. From puncture repairs to seasonal preparation, we’ve got the tyre service to keep your vehicle safe and performing at its best.
Halfords Tyre Services
1. Puncture Repair
A punctured tyre can quickly become a safety risk. If your tyre is losing pressure or your car feels unstable, you could have a puncture.
Signs you may have a tyre puncture:
- Your tyre constantly loses air pressure.
- You feel vibrations while driving,
- The steering feels unstable or difficult to control.
- You spot debris or nails stuck in the tyre.
If it’s safe to do so, carry out a quick inspection and see if there is a visible rupture or spike.
When can a tyre be repaired?
A puncture repair may be possible depending on the level and location of the damage.
Tyre repairs are typically possible when:
- The puncture hole is in the centre 3 / 4 of the tyre.
- The damage is small and contained.
Repairs are not possible when:
- The puncture is on the tyre sidewall.
- The damage compromises the tyre’s structure.
Sidewall damage cannot be safely repaired and may lead to a blowout.
What does our puncture repair service include?
We will fully examine both the interior and exterior of your wheel and tyre and then identify future tyre issues and prevent any further damage. If we are unable to repair your tyre, we will happily refund the cost of the repair (excluding run flat tyres).
2. Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment ensures your tyres sit at the correct angles and point in the right direction. Proper alignment improves handling, tyre lifespan, and fuel efficiency.
Halfords offers two types of alignment services:
- 2-wheel alignment – focuses on the front wheels only.
- 4-wheel alignment – checks all wheels for optimal performance.
Most vehicles benefit from the 4-wheel alignment, but the final choice depends on your vehicle and budget.
Signs of misaligned wheels:
- Your car pulls to one side when driving.
- Clunking noises appear when turning corners.
- Vibrations occur through the steering wheel.
- Uneven tyre wear appears on the tread.
- Fuel efficiency decreases.
How does a wheel alignment service work?
Using advanced computerised technology, our experts will check your wheels and make the adjustments required. You will be provided with a report of your wheel alignment readings before and after the process – that way you can see AND feel the difference!
3. Wheel Balancing
Wheel balancing ensures the weight of your wheel and tyre is evenly distributed. Balanced wheels improve driving comfort and prevent uneven tyre wear.
Signs of unbalanced wheels:
- Steering wheel vibrations.
- Wobbling sensations while driving.
- Increased difficulty steering at higher speeds.
These issues can develop over time and with reaching high mileage, or occur suddenly after hitting potholes or kerbs.
When to check your wheel balance?
We recommend that you have your wheel balances assessed every 6,000 miles (definitely no more than 15,000) and after a flat or replacement tyre.
What to expect during a wheel balancing service
Our Halfords experts will ensure that the combined weight around your tyre and wheel are proportionately distributed. This is carried out through the placement of tiny weights to specific points around the axel.
The impact of unbalanced wheels
- If the weight is unevenly distributed, it can lead to the premature wearing down of your tyres.
- If your wheels remain imbalanced for a longer period of time, it may lead to suspension issues and a poor fuel economy/braking distance.
With properly balanced wheels, your journey will feel smooth and easy!
4. TPMS Valve Service
If your vehicle has a TPMS (or tyre pressure monitoring system), we can help to extend its lifespan through our valve service.
Your TPMS valve can corrode because of:
- Damage.
- Degradation
A corroded TPMS valve can cause air to escape slowly and force your tyre to lose pressure over time – or quickly, and cause a blowout.
What to expect during a TPMS Valve Service
Our service will ensure your TPMS valve has a tight seal and caters to your specific type.
- If you have a ‘clamp in’ valve, we can replace your securing screw.
- For ‘snap in’ valve stems, we can replace your locking nut, locating washer, valve stem, valve core, and valve cap.
5. Free Tyre Check
At Halfords, we offer a completely free of charge tyre check. Our customer’s reassurance and safety are our top priority which is why we offer this great service.
What’s checked in a free tyre check?
You can receive top advice from our experts while they carefully check your:
- Tyre pressure.
- Tread depth.
- Overall tyre condition, including punctures.
How to check tyre condition at-home?
- To check your tyre pressure at home, the Halfords range of pressure gauges and tyre inflators can help you out.
- You can check your tyre tread using a tyre tread gauge to observe the exact measurement of your tread depth. In the UK, it’s a legal requirement that your tread be at least 1.6mm.
It’s very important to get both your tyre pressure and tyre tread checked. Each impact your vehicle’s stopping distance, steering, and road grip – factors that are especially important in colder weather.
Buy new tyres
If your tread is illegal and you’re driving with a bald tyre, you will need to get replacements organised straight away. We can offer appointments at your local garage or why not use our Halfords Mobile Expert service – they’ll come to your home or workplace at your convenience!
6. Winter Preparation Service
We offer seasonal services so that you can be ready to drive, no matter what the road conditions look like. Our Winter Prep service involves 14-checks to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive during icy, wet weather.
Included in the Halfords Winter Prep detailed service is a:
- Tyre depth check.
- Tyre inflation check (and top-up).
- Duxback windscreen treatment.
- Top up your necessary liquid levels (e.g. antifreeze).
- Inspection of the condition of many of your car parts – and much more!
Book with Halfords for reassurance that you car is ready for colder, rainier seasons.
Whatever your tyre needs are, we are here to help. Find your local Halfords garage here and get your tyres assessed today.
Plus, with a Halfords Motoring Club premium membership, you can unlock an extra 5% off of all tyre services! With Halfords, what’s not to love?
