Tyre Fitting in Ringmore

Tyre problems in a place like Ringmore rarely announce themselves. You pull out of a lane, feel a slight tug on the steering, and only later notice that the inner edge of a tyre has worn smooth. Walkers and holiday visitors add to the slow, twisty driving that wears rubber unevenly.

We are Automaster, at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. Ringmore is a small village, so we will keep this practical: here is what to look for, what the work involves, and how to ask us for a quote.

What does a worn or damaged tyre look like?

Beyond tread depth, which must be at least 1.6 mm across the central three quarters of the tread, look for cracks in the rubber, flat spots, and bumps on the sidewall. A bump means internal damage and the tyre should be replaced.

Check each tyre separately. The front pair usually wear differently from the rear, and a car that is mostly used for short trips can have tyres that look fine but have aged badly.

Is it worth repairing a puncture?

When the hole is in the central tread, a proper repair from the inside is often possible and avoids replacing a tyre that is otherwise healthy. Repairs are not suitable for sidewall damage, for large holes, or for tyres that were driven on while deflated.

Plugging from the outside alone is not a proper repair. We take the tyre off the wheel to inspect it first, and we will say plainly if a replacement is the sensible route.

Do I need alignment or balancing, and what is the difference?

Alignment, often called tracking, corrects the angle of the wheels so the car runs straight and tyres wear evenly. Balancing corrects uneven weight around a wheel, which shows up as vibration at speed.

On lanes with tight corners and rough edges, kerb knocks are easy to pick up. If the steering wheel is off-centre or the car pulls, ask about tracking when you contact us.

• Pulling to one side
• Steering wheel off-centre
• Vibration at speed
• Uneven wear on one shoulder

Can Ringmore drivers book tyres with you?

Yes. The garage is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we welcome drivers from Ringmore and from nearby Bigbury, Kingston, Bantham and Thurlestone.

Contact us with the car details first and ask for a quote. That way we know the tyre size and what you want done before you set off.

Narrow lanes leave little room to stop safely, so sorting a worn tyre early is better than finding the problem at the roadside. Walkers parking on verges can also leave debris near your wheels.

What do I need to tell you for a quote?

Tell us the registration, the tyre size from the sidewall if you can find it, and how many tyres you need. Mention any symptoms, such as pulling, noise or a tyre that loses pressure.

Cost depends on tyre size, type and quantity, plus any alignment or balancing. We will not put a figure on a car we have not been told about.