Tyre Tracking & Alignment Explained

Ensuring your vehicle’s tyres are in optimal condition is paramount for safety, fuel efficiency, and the longevity of your vehicle’s components. Two terms often used interchangeably, but distinctly different, are tyre tracking and wheel alignment. Understanding these concepts and how to identify when they need attention can save you money and prevent potentially dangerous situations on the road. This article will delve into the intricacies of both tyre tracking and wheel alignment, explaining what they are, why they are important, how to spot the signs of misalignment, and what the correction process involves.

What is Tyre Tracking?

Tyre tracking, also commonly referred to as toe adjustment, is a geometric setting of your vehicle's suspension. It describes the angle at which your wheels are pointing inwards or outwards, as viewed from above. Imagine looking down at your car from a bird's-eye view. If the front edges of the front tyres are closer together than the rear edges, this is called 'toe-in'. Conversely, if the front edges are further apart than the rear edges, this is 'toe-out'.

The ideal tracking setting is usually very close to zero degrees, meaning the tyres are pointing perfectly straight ahead. However, slight toe-in or toe-out can be specified by manufacturers for specific handling characteristics. For example, a small amount of toe-out on the front wheels can improve turn-in response, while a small amount of toe-in can improve straight-line stability.

Why is Tyre Tracking Important?

Proper tyre tracking is crucial for several reasons:

• Tyre Wear: Incorrect tracking is one of the primary causes of uneven and premature tyre wear. If the wheels are not pointing straight, they will drag sideways across the road surface, leading to rapid degradation of the tyre tread. This can manifest as feathered edges or wear on just one side of the tyre.
• Fuel Efficiency: When tyres are not tracking correctly, they create additional rolling resistance. This means your engine has to work harder to maintain speed, leading to increased fuel consumption.
• Handling and Stability: While minor adjustments can influence handling, significant misalignment can negatively impact your vehicle's straight-line stability and its ability to respond predictably to steering inputs. This can be particularly noticeable during braking or cornering.

Signs of Poor Tyre Tracking:

You might need to check your tyre tracking if you observe any of the following:

• Uneven Tyre Wear: As mentioned, this is the most common indicator. Look for wear on the inner or outer edges of your tyres, or a 'feathering' effect where the tread blocks feel rough when you run your hand across them in one direction.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your car consistently pulls to the left or right when driving on a straight and level road, even when you're not actively steering in that direction, tracking could be the culprit.
• Vibrations: While vibrations can be caused by many issues, including unbalanced wheels, tracking problems can sometimes contribute to a general sense of vibration through the steering wheel or the car's body.

What is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment, often used interchangeably with tracking, is a broader term that encompasses the adjustments made to the suspension and steering components to ensure they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. While tyre tracking (toe) is a part of wheel alignment, the latter also includes adjustments to:

• Camber: This refers to the inward or outward tilt of the tyre when viewed from the front of the vehicle. If the top of the tyre is tilted inwards towards the vehicle, it's negative camber. If it's tilted outwards, it's positive camber. Most vehicles are designed with a slight negative camber to improve cornering grip.
• Caster: This is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side. It affects steering stability and the tendency of the wheels to self-centre after a turn. Positive caster generally improves straight-line stability.

Essentially, wheel alignment ensures that all wheels are positioned correctly relative to each other and the road surface, optimising handling, tyre life, and stability. It's a more comprehensive check and adjustment than just the tracking of the front wheels.

Why is Wheel Alignment Important?

A proper wheel alignment is vital for:

• Maximising Tyre Life: Just like tracking, incorrect alignment causes tyres to scrub against the road, leading to rapid and uneven wear. This can significantly shorten the lifespan of your tyres, costing you more in replacements.
• Improving Fuel Economy: Misaligned wheels increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel.
• Enhancing Safety: Proper alignment ensures your vehicle steers and handles as intended. It improves stability, especially during braking and cornering, and makes the steering feel more precise and responsive. A car that pulls to one side or wanders can be dangerous, particularly in emergency situations.
• Reducing Strain on Suspension Components: When wheels are not aligned correctly, it can put undue stress on various suspension and steering parts, potentially leading to premature wear and failure of these components.

Signs of Poor Wheel Alignment:

The signs of poor wheel alignment are often similar to those of poor tyre tracking, but can be more pronounced or affect more than just the front tyres:

• Steering Wheel Off-Centre: If your steering wheel is not centred when the car is driving straight, this is a strong indicator of alignment issues.
• Vehicle Pulling or Drifting: Similar to tracking issues, the vehicle may pull to one side of the road, or you might feel it 'wander' or drift without constant steering correction.
• Uneven Tyre Wear: This is a hallmark of alignment problems. Besides edge wear, you might see wear patterns like cupping (circular depressions) or scalloping (irregular wear patches).
• Squealing Tyres: If your tyres squeal during normal cornering, it can indicate that they are not at the correct angle to the road surface.

Tracking vs. Alignment: The Key Differences

While often used interchangeably, the primary difference lies in their scope:

What Causes Tracking and Alignment Issues?

Several factors can lead to your vehicle's tracking and alignment being compromised:

• Impacts: Hitting potholes, kerbs, or debris on the road can easily knock suspension components out of their precise settings.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, the bushes and joints in your suspension system can wear out, leading to slight movements and changes in alignment.
• Accidents: Even minor bumps or fender-benders can affect the geometric integrity of the suspension.
• Component Replacement: If suspension parts like shock absorbers, springs, or steering arms are replaced, it's often recommended to check and adjust the alignment afterwards.

The Tracking and Alignment Adjustment Process

When you take your vehicle to a garage for a tracking or alignment check, they will typically use a specialised computerised alignment rig. This system uses lasers or cameras to measure the angles of all four wheels.

The technician will compare these readings to the manufacturer's specifications for your specific vehicle model. If any angles are found to be outside the acceptable range, adjustments will be made. These adjustments are usually made by:

• Altering Tie Rods: For tracking (toe) adjustments, the tie rods (which connect the steering rack to the wheel hubs) are lengthened or shortened.
• Adjusting Camber Bolts/Washers: For camber adjustments, specific bolts or shims are used to tilt the top of the wheel inwards or outwards.
• Modifying Caster Bushings/Bolts: Caster adjustments often involve repositioning or replacing specific components in the suspension.

It’s important to note that not all vehicles allow for adjustment of all alignment angles. Some modern vehicles have fixed camber and caster settings, meaning if these are found to be out of specification, the issue might lie with bent suspension components that would need replacement.

How Often Should You Check Your Tracking and Alignment?

There isn't a strict rule, but it's good practice to have your tracking and alignment checked:

• Annually: As part of your regular vehicle servicing.
• After Hitting an Obstacle: If you’ve hit a significant pothole or kerb.
• When Replacing Tyres: To ensure the new tyres are fitted with correct alignment.
• If You Notice Symptoms: If you experience any of the signs mentioned above (pulling, uneven wear, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is tyre tracking the same as wheel alignment?
A1: No, while related, tyre tracking (or toe) is just one component of a full wheel alignment, which also includes camber and caster adjustments.

Q2: Can I adjust my car's tracking myself?
A2: While theoretically possible with the right tools and knowledge, it's highly recommended to have it done professionally. Incorrect adjustments can worsen the problem and cause significant damage.

Q3: How long does a wheel alignment take?
A3: A typical wheel alignment usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity and whether any seized components need to be freed.

Q4: Will wheel alignment improve my car's performance?
A4: It won't add horsepower, but it will restore your car's intended handling and stability, making it feel more precise and safer to drive, which can be perceived as improved performance.

Q5: My tyres are wearing unevenly, but my car doesn't pull. What could it be?
A5: Uneven tyre wear can also be caused by unbalanced wheels, incorrect tyre pressures, or worn suspension components, even if the car doesn't noticeably pull.

Conclusion

Understanding the distinction between tyre tracking and wheel alignment, and recognising the signs that indicate a need for adjustment, is crucial for any car owner. Both are vital for ensuring your vehicle’s safety, maximising tyre life, and maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Regular checks and prompt attention to any alignment issues will not only save you money in the long run but also contribute to a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. If you suspect a problem, don't delay; consult a qualified mechanic to have your vehicle's alignment checked and corrected.