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Frequently Asked Tire Mounting Questions

-- Tire Mounting --
My directional tires were mounted incorrectly and are rotating in the wrong direction. What should I do?

My unidirectional tires were mounted incorrectly and are rotating in the wrong direction. What should I do?

My asymmetrical tires were mounted incorrectly. What should I do?

Is it safe to repair a flat tire?

Must I replace my present tires with the same size tires?

Isn't it easy to mount a tire on a wheel? Can't I do it myself?

What is alignment?

Why do my tires need to be balanced?

My directional tires were mounted incorrectly and are rotating in the wrong direction. What should I do?

Tires with a "directional" tread design are intended to roll and perform in a given direction.  The sidewall will have arrows indicating the rolling direction of the tire.  If installed in the wrong direction, the tire will not perform its intended function.  However, no damage or premature wear to the tire will result.  The tire should be dismounted and remounted by a certified technician to roll in the proper direction.

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My unidirectional tires were mounted incorrectly and are rotating in the wrong direction. What should I do?

"Unidirectional" tires are designed for a side specific position, either the right side of the left side and are unidierectionally designed to roll and perform in a given position on the vehicle.  If installed in the wrong position the tire will not perform its intended function.  However, no damage or premature wear to the tires will result.  The tire should be dismounted and remounted to roll in the proper direction and on the proper side of the vehicle.

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My asymmetrical tires were mounted incorrectly. What should I do?

Asymmetrical tires were designed to improve handling and reduce noise.  The tires can rotate in either direction with the correct side facing out as indicated on the sidewall.  If installed with the wrong side facing out, the tire will not perform its intended function.  However, no damage or premature wear to the tire will result.  Simply have it dismounted and reinstalled correctly by a Gemini Automotive Care™ technician.

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Is it safe to repair a flat tire?

If a tire loses all or most of its air pressure, it must be removed from the wheel for a complete internal inspection to be sure it's not damaged. Tires that are run even short distances while flat are often damaged beyond repair. Most punctures, nail holes, or cuts up to 1/4 inch -- confined to the tread -- may be satisfactorily repaired by trained personnel using industry-approved methods. Don't repair tires with tread punctures larger than 1/4 inch, or any sidewall puncture. Also, never repair tires which are worn below 1/16 inch tread depth. Your best bet is to make sure your spare tire is always ready to do the job. Check it regularly for proper air pressure and be sure that it is in good shape. If your car is equipped with one of the several types of temporary spares, be sure to check the spare tire's sidewall for the correct inflation pressure, speed, and mileage limitations. See Gemini Automotive Care for expert tire repair.

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Must I replace my present tires with the same size tires?

Never choose a smaller size than those that came with the vehicle. Tires should always be replaced with the same size designation -- or approved options -- as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or Gemini Automotive Care.

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Isn't it easy to mount a tire on a wheel? Can't I do it myself?

Never try to mount your own tires. Tire mounting is a job for the people who have the proper equipment and experience. If you try to do it yourself, you run the risk of serious injury to yourself as well as possible damage to the tire and rim.

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What is alignment?

A vehicle is said to be properly aligned when all suspension and steering components are sound and when the tire and wheel assemblies are running straight and true. Proper alignment is necessary for even tread wear and precise steering. Uneven front-or rear-tire wear, or changes in your vehicle's handling or steering response (i.e. pulling to one side) can indicate misalignment. Many vehicles today are equipped with rear suspensions that can be adjusted for alignment. Your vehicle may need a "front-end" alignment or a "four-wheel" alignment, depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. The moderate cost of having your vehicle aligned can more than pay for itself in tire mileage, performance and comfort. Gemini Automotive Care provide expert alignment and suspension service.

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Why do my tires need to be balanced?

Properly balanced tires are important for driving comfort and long tire life. Unbalanced tires can cause vibration, resulting in driver fatigue, premature tire wear and unnecessary wear to your vehicle's suspension. Tires should be balanced when they are mounted on wheels for the first time or when they are remounted after repair. Tires should be rebalanced at the first sign of vibration or "shimmy." Vibration may also be due to misalignment or mechanical problems. Many Gemini Automotive Care providers can provide expert diagnosis and repair.

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