Ask an expert

Can you advise just what are the standards for car tyres in NZ and if there should be any marks of such on the tyres.

Terry

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

The answer below is provided by the Manager of Product & Field Engineering at South Pacific Tyres (Dunlop and Goodyear). Hope it helps.

"An interesting area! Aside from the nominated standards contained within Tyre & Wheel Rule 32013, a Customs import prohibition order in theory stops tyres passing our border devoid of the nominated standards.

Broadly I would say that most tyres entering our border comply with ECE or DOT standards. So, in theory tyres arriving in NZ meet the legal minimum standards which provides the prescribed product integrity.

However, while meeting those standards there is a significant scatter of tyre performance, especially when considering grip and tread life. It is very difficult for the NZ consumer to judge relative performances, so most rely on the recommendation of the tyre reseller, which of course is subjective and often motivated by profitability rather than appropriateness to the consumer.

Also, tyres are often built for specific markets. Therefore, tyres arriving used from Japan are domestic Japan spec, and can differ from export tyres. One of the differences can be the degree of sidewall ozone protectants, with the result that many used domestic tyres imported into NZ crack prematurely, resulting in early withdrawal at WOF inspection."

My comments -

Generally you get what you pay for (cheap = lower performance in most parameters)
Used tyres have low purchase price but high operating cost when full life economics are calculated
Stick with name brands
Try to purchase from a chain which can offer a road hazard warranty and nationwide support in the event of an issue