We all know that we should look after our tyres to make sure they are road safe, but simply getting new ones isn’t always enough. Your garage may also recommend that you have your wheels aligned once your new tyres are fitted. But what is wheel alignment and why is it so important?

What is wheel alignment?

A wheel alignment (also known as ‘tracking’) consists of readjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. This is done by adjusting the track rods or tracking pin. The purpose of this adjustment is to ensure that the vehicle travels in a straight line.

Why is it so important?

The main benefit of correctly alignment wheels is for safety. When your wheels are out of alignment your tyres will wear down unevenly. Even tyre tread depth is essential for safe braking and handling. Without it your car could handle unpredictably, and sometimes it can even lead to a tyre blowout. Ensuring your vehicle’s wheels are correctly aligned will improve road safety by enhancing the stability and grip of your tyres.

However, correct alignment will also save you money. When poor alignment causes uneven tyre wear it reduces the life of your tyres and leads to more frequent replacements. It will also reduce fuel efficiency. Proper alignment will help your tyres last longer and improve fuel efficiency.

How do you know you need a wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment problems can be caused by hitting a kerb, driving over a pothole or by excessive wear to steering or suspension components. So it’s important to get your wheel alignment checked annually, as well as when you get new tyres fitted. However, if you notice any handling issues, such as those listed below, it’s time to get it looked at:

● Uneven Tyre Wear: If one side of the tyre is wearing faster than the other, it could indicate a misalignment issue.

● Steering Issues: A vehicle that pulls to one side or requires extra effort to steer may need alignment.

● Vibration: Misaligned wheels can cause the steering wheel to vibrate, especially at high speeds.

If you would like to have your wheel alignment checked just give us a call on 01202 694758 or email us at info@star-tech.co.uk