Your car pulls to one side, the steering wheel is not straight when driving straight ahead, or your tyres have worn unusually fast on the inner edge? The most likely cause is incorrect wheel alignment. This guide explains what wheel alignment is, when you need it and why it pays off.
What is wheel alignment?
Alignment (also called tracking) sets the exact angle of the wheels relative to the car and the road. The key adjustable parameters are:
- toe – whether the front edges of the wheels point slightly inwards or outwards when viewed from above,
- camber – the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front,
- caster – the angle of the steering axis, affecting straight-line stability and how the steering self-centres.
The manufacturer specifies exact values for each model. A technician measures them with a computerised camera or laser rig and adjusts the suspension.
Signs your alignment is off
- The car pulls left or right on a flat road.
- The steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight.
- Uneven tyre wear – especially on the inner or outer edge.
- Tyres squeal in corners at normal speeds.
- The steering doesn’t return to centre properly after a turn.
Note: pulling to one side can also be caused by uneven tyre pressure or a sticking brake. Check the pressure first.
When should you get an alignment?
- after hitting a pothole or kerb,
- after replacing suspension parts – arms, track rod ends, shock absorbers, springs,
- after fitting new tyres, so they don’t wear unevenly,
- after an accident, even a minor one,
- after lowering or raising the car,
- preventively at a seasonal tyre change if you’ve noticed any of the signs above.
Why alignment pays off
Longer tyre life
Incorrect toe can wear a new tyre down on one edge in a few thousand kilometres. At today’s tyre prices, an alignment often pays for itself with a single set of tyres.
Safety
A car with correct alignment is more stable under braking, in corners and on wet roads.
Lower fuel consumption
Misaligned wheels increase rolling resistance, which means slightly higher fuel consumption.
How alignment is done
- The technician checks tyre pressure and suspension parts – worn parts cannot be aligned properly.
- Targets or sensors are mounted on the wheels.
- The computer compares measured values with the manufacturer’s specification.
- The technician adjusts toe and, where possible, other parameters.
- You receive a printout of the values before and after.
On many cars only toe is adjustable; on others camber too. The job usually takes around an hour.
Alignment vs. wheel balancing
They are often confused. Balancing corrects uneven weight distribution in a wheel and prevents steering vibration at higher speeds. Alignment sets the angle of the wheels. More on balancing and tyre changes in our tyre and wheel service guide.
Frequently asked questions
How often should alignment be checked?
Without symptoms, roughly once a year or at a tyre change is sensible. After a hard hit on a pothole or kerb, check it straight away even if you notice no change.
Can bad alignment damage other parts?
Misalignment mainly wears tyres. It is often caused by worn or bent suspension parts that need replacing – which is why the technician inspects the suspension before aligning.
Find a provider near you
Wheel alignment is offered by tyre shops and garages. Kardet lists tyre shops and garages across Europe – send a free request.