Misaligned wheels cost you money and compromise your safety. Find out what wheel alignment is, why it drifts, and what to do about it.
Understanding Wheel Alignment and Why It Changes
Wheel alignment (also called wheel tracking) refers to the angle at which your tyres contact the road surface. When alignment is correct, all four wheels point in the precise direction specified by your vehicle manufacturer, optimising tyre contact with the road for maximum grip, even tyre wear, and fuel efficiency. Alignment drifts out of specification gradually through normal driving, and can shift suddenly after hitting a pothole, mounting a kerb, or being involved in a minor collision — common occurrences on British roads.
There are three main alignment measurements: toe (whether tyres point inward or outward when viewed from above), camber (whether tyres lean inward or outward when viewed from the front), and caster (the angle of the steering axis). Most routine alignment work focuses on toe adjustment, as this is the most commonly affected measurement and has the greatest impact on tyre wear and fuel consumption.
The Cost of Ignoring Wheel Alignment
Misaligned wheels cause tyres to scrub against the road surface at a slight angle, which wears the inner or outer edges of the tread far more quickly than the centre. In severe cases, misalignment can wear through a new tyre in a fraction of its expected lifespan — a very expensive consequence of a relatively small problem. Fuel economy also suffers, as the engine must work harder to overcome the additional rolling resistance created by misaligned wheels.
Just Mobile Tyres recommends checking wheel alignment annually or after any significant kerb or pothole impact. While we do not carry full alignment equipment on our mobile vans, we will always advise you if we notice clear signs of alignment problems during a tyre fitting visit and recommend you have it checked by a specialist. Addressing alignment issues promptly protects your new tyres and your safety.
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