Planning a road trip across Australia’s vast landscapes is an exciting experience—but before you hit the open road, there’s one thing that should be at the top of your checklist: your tyres. They’re the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road, and their condition can mean the difference between a smooth journey and a dangerous breakdown.
At Repco Authorised Service, we see far too many preventable issues that start with neglected tyres. Here’s why checking your tyres before a road trip isn’t just important—it’s crucial.
Worn or underinflated tyres compromise your vehicle’s ability to grip the road—especially when braking or turning. Whether you're navigating wet roads in the tropics or winding through mountain ranges, good tyre condition ensures optimal handling and reduces the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
Tip: Check your tread depth before you travel. The legal minimum in Australia is 1.5mm, but we recommend replacing tyres once they fall below 3mm for better safety, particularly on long trips.
Australia’s road trips often take you far from major towns. A blowout or puncture in a remote area can leave you stranded with limited phone reception, hot conditions, and few service options nearby.
Tip: Inspect each tyre—including the spare—for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects. If your tyres are over five years old, have a technician check them for internal damage or age-related deterioration.
Tyres that are even slightly underinflated create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. On long journeys, this adds up quickly.
Tip: Inflate your tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can usually be found on a placard inside the driver’s door or in the owner's manual. Don’t forget to adjust for a heavier load if you’re packing the boot or towing.
Misaligned wheels or unbalanced tyres can cause uneven wear, vibrations, or pulling to one side—none of which make for a relaxing drive.
Tip: Have your alignment and balancing checked before a big trip, especially if you’ve recently hit a pothole, kerb, or had suspension work done. Your local Repco Authorised Service workshop can handle this with ease.
It takes just a few minutes to check your tyres, but it could save you from costly repairs—or worse, an accident.
Before setting off on your next road trip, book a pre-trip inspection with your local Repco Authorised Service centre. Our trained technicians will assess your tyres and overall vehicle condition to ensure you’re road-ready and safe to explore with confidence.
Whether you're planning a coastal escape, an Outback adventure, or anything in between, we’re here to help you drive safely and smoothly.