Tyre tracking, more commonly known as wheel alignment, is a fundamental automotive maintenance procedure that ensures your vehicle's wheels are precisely oriented according to the manufacturer's specifications. This process is crucial for optimal tyre performance, vehicle handling, and safety.
Understanding Tyre Tracking: The Science of Wheel Alignment
Wheel tracking involves checking the direction and angle of the wheels relative to each other and to the vehicle's body. When these angles are correctly set, tyres make proper contact with the road, leading to even wear, improved fuel efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience. Misalignment, on the other hand, can lead to premature tyre wear and compromised vehicle dynamics.
The primary angles measured and adjusted during a wheel alignment are toe, camber, and caster. These measurements are typically performed using advanced, highly accurate equipment, often involving laser technology.
Key Alignment Angles Explained
Understanding these angles is essential to grasp how tyres are tracked and why it's so important.
1. Toe
Toe refers to the inward or outward angle of the wheels when viewed from above.
- Toe-in: The front of the wheels points slightly inward. The misalignment position known as toe in can improve straight-line stability but may cause tyre wear if excessive.
- Toe-out: The front of the wheels points slightly outward. The misalignment position known as toe out can enhance steering response, particularly in turns, but can also lead to increased tyre wear.
2. Camber
Camber is the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle.
- Positive Camber: The top of the wheel tilts outward. The misalignment position known as positive camber can improve steering feel at low speeds but may cause wear on the outer edge of the tyre.
- Negative Camber: The top of the wheel tilts inward. The misalignment position known as negative camber is often used in performance vehicles to improve grip during cornering, but excessive negative camber can lead to wear on the inner edge of the tyre.
3. Caster
Caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reference, it's a vital component of a comprehensive wheel alignment.
- Positive Caster: The steering axis is tilted backward. This helps the wheels self-centre after a turn and improves high-speed stability.
- Negative Caster: The steering axis is tilted forward. This is rare in modern cars and can make steering feel light and unstable.
The Tyre Tracking Process
Modern tyre tracking, or wheel alignment, is a precise procedure performed by trained technicians using specialized equipment.
- Preparation: The vehicle is driven onto a lift, and technicians ensure tyre pressures are correct and suspension components are not worn.
- Sensor Installation: High-tech sensors, often utilizing lasers or 3D imaging, are clamped onto each wheel. These sensors communicate wirelessly with a computer.
- Measurement: The computer system measures the current toe, camber, and caster angles for all four wheels and compares them against the manufacturer's specifications.
- Adjustment: Based on the diagnostic report, technicians make precise adjustments to the suspension components (e.g., tie rods for toe, camber bolts for camber) to bring all angles back within the recommended range.
- Verification: The alignment is re-measured to ensure all adjustments are correct and the vehicle is properly aligned.
For a visual understanding of the process, you can explore resources from reputable automotive care providers like Firestone Complete Auto Care on wheel alignment or Goodyear on wheel alignment.
Signs Your Tyres Need Tracking
It's important to be aware of the indicators that suggest your vehicle's wheels are misaligned:
- Uneven Tyre Wear: One of the most common signs is when tyres show wear patterns on one side (inner or outer) or in a feathered pattern.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your car consistently drifts or pulls to the left or right when driving on a straight, level road, it's a strong indicator of misalignment.
- Steering Wheel Off-Centre: When driving straight, if your steering wheel isn't perfectly centred, alignment is likely off.
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel: While sometimes related to unbalanced tyres, vibration can also stem from severe alignment issues.
- Squealing Tyres: Tyres that squeal frequently, especially when turning, might be working against each other due to incorrect alignment.
Benefits of Proper Tyre Tracking
Regular and accurate wheel alignment offers numerous advantages for your vehicle and your wallet:
- Extended Tyre Life: Properly aligned wheels ensure even tyre wear, maximizing their lifespan and delaying the need for costly replacements.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: When tyres roll straight and true, there's less rolling resistance, leading to better fuel economy.
- Enhanced Handling and Safety: Correct alignment provides better steering response, stability, and overall control, making your vehicle safer and more predictable to drive.
- Smoother Ride: A well-aligned vehicle reduces strain on steering and suspension components, contributing to a more comfortable and quieter ride.
Common Misalignment Conditions and Their Effects
| Condition | Description | Effect on Tyres | Effect on Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toe-in | Front of wheels point slightly inward. | Feathering wear on outer edge of tyre. | Steering response feels sharp; improved stability. |
| Toe-out | Front of wheels point slightly outward. | Feathering wear on inner edge of tyre. | Steering response feels loose; reduced stability. |
| Positive Camber | Top of wheel tilts outward. | Wear on outer edge of tyre. | Reduced grip during cornering; light steering. |
| Negative Camber | Top of wheel tilts inward. | Wear on inner edge of tyre. | Improved cornering stability; heavier steering. |
When to Get Your Tyres Tracked
It's advisable to have your tyres tracked in several scenarios:
- After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: Any significant impact can throw off your vehicle's alignment.
- Following an Accident: Even minor collisions can cause misalignment.
- When Replacing Tyres: Installing new tyres is an ideal time to check and adjust alignment to ensure even wear from the start.
- After Replacing Suspension Components: New shocks, struts, or steering parts necessitate an alignment check.
- During Routine Maintenance: Many manufacturers and mechanics recommend an alignment check annually or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, even if no issues are apparent.
Advanced Tyre Tracking Technologies
Modern wheel alignment technology has evolved significantly. Today's systems utilize sophisticated 3D imaging and digital sensors to provide extremely accurate measurements. These systems can diagnose issues quickly and precisely, offering graphical representations that help technicians explain the problems to vehicle owners. This precision ensures that adjustments are made with the highest level of accuracy, optimizing vehicle performance.
In conclusion, tyre tracking is synonymous with wheel alignment, a critical procedure that ensures the correct orientation of your vehicle's wheels. By monitoring and adjusting angles like toe and camber, technicians safeguard your tyres' longevity, enhance your vehicle's safety, and improve your overall driving experience.
