Wheel Alignment: Why It Matters

Wheel alignment (or tracking) isn’t just a fancy term used by mechanics. It has real implications for your vehicle. Alignment affects how your car steers, handles, and tyres wear. Most drivers don’t even realise their car is out of alignment until they notice their tyres wear unevenly.

Getting your wheel alignment checked is a simple, quick, and effective way to save yourself some money. Good alignment means safer driving, longer-lasting tyres, and better fuel economy.

Below, we cover what wheel alignment is, the signs of bad alignment, how it’s checked, and why regular checks matter.

What Wheel Alignment Actually Is

Wheel alignment refers to the angle and direction of your wheels relative to the road. The angle of your wheels should be adjusted so they’re set correctly according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

There are a few important terms to understand. Here’s a breakdown:

• Toe – Shows whether the wheels point slightly inwards or outwards. Incorrect toe causes the tyres to scrub on the road and wear quickly on one edge.
• Camber – The inward or outward tilt of the wheels. Wrong camber leads to shoulder wear and reduced cornering grip.
• Caster – The angle of the steering axis. Incorrect caster affects steering stability and how well the wheel self-centres.

Remember, it’s not just about your front wheels. Ideally, all four wheels will be in perfect alignment for optimal performance.

Why Wheel Alignment Matters

Wheel alignment is often underappreciated.

Drivers think it’s a nice-to-have, rather than a must-have. But wheel misalignment causes increased tyre wear, hampers fuel efficiency, slows braking, and even affects your vehicle’s stability at speed.

Most people notice wheel misalignment when their car pulls to one side or vibrates slightly. There may also be issues with handling and steering response. If neglected, misalignment can destroy a set of tyres in months.

Signs Your Wheel Alignment Is Out

Not sure if your car has wheel alignment issues? The signs of bad alignment include:

• Car pulls left or right: The most common sign of misalignment.
• Steering wheel sits off-centre: Even when driving straight.
• Steering feels loose or vague: The car doesn’t respond cleanly.
• Uneven shoulder wear: One edge of the tyre wears faster.
• Feathered or saw-tooth tread: Tread blocks feel sharp on one side, smooth on the other.
• Vibration at certain speeds: Especially if alignment issues combine with poor balancing.
• Tyres wearing out quickly: Misalignment can cut tyre life dramatically.

If in doubt, get it checked. We’re always happy to give your tyres a quick check down at our service centre. Bring your car in for a quick wheel alignment checkup.

What Causes Misalignment

Wheel misalignment can occur naturally over time. Slight vibrations in your vehicle or long distances inevitably cause the wheel to drift inwards or outwards.

But there are a few factors that can cause wheel alignment issues overnight. These include:

• Hitting potholes or speed bumps too hard.
• Clipping kerbs while parking.
• Rough roads or winter damage.
• Worn suspension components.
• After new tyres or steering work.

If you’ve recently hit a pothole or banged your wheels, it’s smart to get the alignment checked. Otherwise, a check every year is sensible, even for a careful driver who needs a periodic review.

How Wheel Alignment Is Checked

So, how is wheel alignment checked?

No longer is it done manually. Laser alignment and 3D imaging systems measure the toe, camber, and caster angles to an extremely fine degree. The measurements for all four wheels are checked against the manufacturer’s specifications.

Adjustments are made to tie rods, control arms, or rear alignment points until the angles are correct. Usually, you’ll receive a printout before and after showing measurements, so you can see the improvements.

How Often You Should Get Wheel Alignment Checked

Wheel alignment isn’t something you need to constantly worry about. We recommend booking a wheel alignment check every 12 months alongside a general tyre review.

You might want to consider an early check:

• After any suspension or steering work
• After hitting a pothole hard
• When fitting new tyres
• Whenever you notice handling changes

If your car is pulling to one side or your tyres are wearing unevenly, it’s time for a wheel alignment check.