Wheel alignment (sometimes called tracking) refers to the angle and direction at which your tyres contact the road. When alignment is correct, all four tyres are pointing in exactly the right direction relative to each other and to the road. When it is incorrect, tyres wear unevenly and the car does not handle as it should.
What causes misalignment
The most common cause is hitting a kerb or pothole. Even a single moderate impact can knock alignment out of tolerance. Worn suspension or steering components can also affect alignment, as can heavy loads over time. New tyres should always be followed by an alignment check, as should any suspension or steering repair.
Signs your alignment needs checking
- The car pulls to one side when you take your hands off the wheel on a level road.
- The steering wheel is not centred when driving straight.
- Tyres are wearing unevenly, with one edge wearing faster than the other.
- You can feel vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds.
Toe, camber and caster: the three alignment angles
Toe refers to whether the front of the tyres point inward (toe-in) or outward (toe-out) relative to each other. It is the most commonly adjusted alignment setting. Camber is the angle of the tyre relative to vertical when viewed from the front. Caster is the angle of the steering axis. Most routine alignment checks focus on toe, which has the greatest effect on tyre wear.
How often should you check alignment
Have alignment checked after any significant kerb or pothole impact, after fitting new tyres, after any suspension or steering work, and at least once per year as part of general maintenance.
Correct alignment extends tyre life significantly and improves fuel economy. To book an alignment check at Steins Garage, call 0131 554 3423 or contact us here.