Wheel Alignment: Tracking Check vs. Laser

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, understanding the nuances of certain services can save you both money and headaches. One area that often causes confusion for car owners is wheel alignment, specifically the difference between a 'tracking check' and a 'laser wheel alignment'. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct processes with varying levels of precision and scope. Getting this right is paramount for your car's handling, your safety on the road, and the longevity of your tyres.

Misaligned wheels can lead to a host of problems, from premature and uneven tyre wear to a noticeable pull on the steering wheel, making your driving experience less comfortable and potentially dangerous. It can also significantly impact your fuel economy. So, let's delve into what each service entails, clarify their differences, and help you determine which one your vehicle truly requires.

What Exactly is Wheel Alignment?

At its core, wheel alignment (sometimes called 'tracking') involves adjusting the angles of your vehicle's wheels to the manufacturer’s specifications. The goal is to ensure that all four wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. This precision adjustment is vital because even a slight deviation from the correct angles can have a profound impact on how your car drives and how quickly your tyres wear out. There are three primary angles that technicians focus on during a comprehensive alignment:

• Toe: This is the most commonly adjusted angle and refers to how much the front of the tyres points inwards or outwards when viewed from above. Imagine looking down at your feet; if your toes point towards each other, that's 'toe-in', if they point outwards, that's 'toe-out'. Correct toe settings are crucial for straight-line stability and preventing scrubbing of the tyres.
• Camber: This is the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle. If the top of the wheel tilts outwards, it has positive camber; if it tilts inwards, it has negative camber. Camber affects the tyre's contact patch with the road and is important for cornering performance.
• Castor: This angle refers to the forward or backward tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. Castor doesn't directly affect tyre wear but significantly influences steering stability, the effort required to turn the steering wheel, and its ability to return to the centre after a turn.

The Traditional 'Tracking Check' Explained

The term 'tracking check' often refers to a more basic form of wheel alignment, primarily focusing on the toe angle of the front wheels. Historically, and in some less equipped garages today, this might involve using simple mechanical gauges or even string lines to measure the toe. The process is relatively quick and less expensive than a full alignment.

A tracking check can be adequate for very specific situations, such as after replacing front steering components like track rod ends, where only the toe angle has been disturbed. It addresses the most common cause of rapid, uneven tyre wear: the wheels 'scrubbing' against the road surface due to incorrect toe. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations. A tracking check typically:

• Only measures and adjusts the front wheel toe.
• Does not account for camber or castor angles.
• Does not measure or adjust the rear wheels, which can significantly impact overall vehicle handling and stability, especially on modern vehicles where rear alignment is often adjustable.
• May not use the high-precision equipment found in a full laser alignment.

While seemingly a cost-effective solution, relying solely on a basic tracking check when a more comprehensive alignment is needed can be a false economy. It might temporarily alleviate one symptom but leave underlying issues unaddressed, leading to continued problems down the line.

The Advanced 'Laser Wheel Alignment' (Full Four-Wheel Alignment) Explained

When a garage offers 'laser wheel alignment' or 'four-wheel alignment', they are referring to a far more comprehensive and precise service. This process utilises advanced computerised equipment with laser sensors or sophisticated cameras to measure all three primary alignment angles – toe, camber, and castor – for all four wheels. The vehicle is typically placed on a dedicated alignment ramp, and sensors are attached to each wheel.

The system then compares the current alignment readings against the vehicle manufacturer's precise specifications stored in its database. The technician receives real-time data, allowing them to make incredibly accurate adjustments to bring all angles back into spec. This level of precision is critical because modern vehicles, with their complex suspension systems, are highly sensitive to even minor deviations.

Benefits of a full laser wheel alignment are extensive:

• Optimised Tyre Life: By ensuring tyres are making full, even contact with the road, their lifespan is maximised, preventing premature and uneven wear. This saves you money on replacement tyres.
• Improved Handling and Steering: Your car will drive straighter, the steering wheel will be centred, and the vehicle will respond more predictably, especially during cornering and braking.
• Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: When wheels are misaligned, they create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Proper alignment reduces this resistance, leading to better fuel economy.
• Increased Safety: A car with correct alignment is more stable and easier to control, especially in emergency manoeuvres, contributing significantly to your safety and that of others on the road.
• Reduced Component Wear: Correct alignment reduces stress on steering and suspension components, potentially extending their lifespan.

A full four-wheel laser alignment is particularly crucial for vehicles with independent rear suspension, as the rear wheels also have adjustable angles that can significantly affect handling and tyre wear.

Key Differences: Tracking Check vs. Laser Wheel Alignment

To summarise the distinctions, let's look at a comparison:

When Do You Need Which Service?

Choosing the right service depends on your car's symptoms and recent history:

Opt for a Basic Tracking Check if:

• You've just replaced front track rod ends and need a quick toe adjustment.
• You're on a very tight budget and only need to address a specific, minor toe issue on the front wheels, understanding it's a temporary solution.

Always Choose a Full Laser Wheel Alignment if:

• You've hit a significant pothole or kerb: This is a common cause of misalignment, affecting all angles.
• You notice uneven tyre wear: Particularly if it's on the inner or outer edges, or if you see 'feathering' (tyre treads feel sharp on one side and smooth on the other).
• Your steering wheel isn't straight: If it's off-centre when you're driving in a straight line.
• Your vehicle pulls to one side: You constantly have to correct the steering to keep the car going straight.
• You've had suspension or steering components replaced: This includes shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, or a new steering rack.
• You're investing in new tyres: A full alignment protects your investment by ensuring the new tyres wear evenly from the start.
• Your car handles differently: It feels less stable, vague, or responsive than usual.
• You've recently lowered or raised your vehicle: Any modification to ride height will drastically alter alignment angles.

Signs Your Wheels Need Attention

Being attentive to your car's behaviour can save you from costly repairs down the line. Look out for these common indicators that your wheels might be out of alignment:

• Uneven or Rapid Tyre Wear: This is the most tell-tale sign. Check the inner and outer edges of your tyres regularly.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If you let go of the steering wheel for a moment (on a safe, level road), does the car drift left or right?
• Steering Wheel Off-Centre: When driving straight, your steering wheel should be perfectly horizontal. If it's tilted, your alignment is off.
• Squealing Tyres: While cornering, if your tyres squeal excessively, it could indicate alignment issues.
• Loose or Vague Steering: If the steering feels less responsive or you have to constantly make small corrections.
• Increased Fuel Consumption: Misaligned wheels create more drag, leading to your engine working harder and consuming more fuel.

The Alignment Process in a Reputable Garage

When you take your car for a full laser wheel alignment, here’s generally what to expect:

1. Pre-Inspection: The technician will first inspect your steering and suspension components for any worn or damaged parts. It's crucial that these components are in good condition, as worn parts can prevent a proper alignment from being achieved.
2. Vehicle Placement: Your car is driven onto a specialised alignment ramp.
3. Sensor Attachment: Precision sensors or targets are attached to each wheel.
4. Measurements Taken: The computer system then reads the current alignment angles of all four wheels.
5. Comparison to Specifications: The readings are compared to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
6. Adjustments Made: The technician, guided by the computer, makes precise adjustments to the tie rods (for toe), and potentially camber and castor adjustments if they are adjustable on your vehicle model. Many modern cars have adjustable rear suspension too, which will also be corrected.
7. Final Printout: You'll typically receive a printout showing the 'before' and 'after' alignment readings, confirming the work has been completed to specification.

It's vital to choose a reputable garage with modern, well-calibrated equipment and experienced technicians. A cheap alignment from an inexperienced provider using outdated equipment might not achieve the necessary precision and could leave your car still out of spec.

Conclusion

The distinction between a 'tracking check' and a 'laser wheel alignment' is significant. While a basic tracking check addresses the front wheel toe and can offer a quick fix for specific issues, it is by no means a substitute for a comprehensive four-wheel laser alignment. Modern vehicles, with their sophisticated suspension systems, demand the precision that only a full laser alignment can provide. Investing in a proper, full alignment service is an investment in your vehicle's longevity, your tyre's lifespan, your fuel economy, and most importantly, your safety on the UK's diverse roads. Don't settle for less when it comes to your car's essential maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How often should I get my wheels aligned?

A: As a general rule, it's recommended to have your alignment checked at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. However, it's essential after hitting any major potholes or kerbs, after replacing suspension or steering components, or if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above.

Q: Is wheel balancing the same as wheel alignment?

A: No, they are completely different. Wheel balancing addresses imbalances in the wheel and tyre assembly itself, preventing vibrations at speed. Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels relative to the vehicle and each other for proper tracking and handling. You need both for optimal performance and safety.

Q: Can a pothole really throw out my alignment?

A: Absolutely. Hitting a pothole or kerb, even at moderate speed, can significantly jolt your suspension and steering components, easily knocking your alignment angles out of specification. This is a very common cause of misalignment.

Q: What's the cost difference between a tracking check and a full laser alignment?

A: A basic tracking check is typically cheaper, often ranging from £25-£50. A full four-wheel laser alignment usually costs more, perhaps £60-£100 or even slightly more, depending on the garage and vehicle complexity. However, the long-term savings from extended tyre life and improved fuel economy often make the full alignment the more cost-effective choice.

Q: Does wheel alignment affect my MOT?

A: While there isn't a direct 'alignment check' on an MOT, severe misalignment can lead to other failures. For instance, excessive uneven tyre wear caused by poor alignment could result in an advisory or even a failure if the tyre's structural integrity is compromised or the tread depth is below the legal limit on a section. Additionally, poor steering response or a significantly off-centre steering wheel could be noted.

Q: Can I do wheel alignment myself?

A: While there are DIY methods and basic tools available, achieving the precise, manufacturer-specified angles for all three alignment parameters (toe, camber, castor) on all four wheels requires highly specialised, calibrated equipment and significant expertise. For accurate and safe results, it is strongly recommended to have wheel alignment performed by a professional garage.

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