A wheel alignment report is a written report to display the results of a vehicle’s wheel alignment process.
It typically includes measurements of the angles of the wheels (such as camber, caster, and toe) before and after the alignment was performed. The report helps to ensure that the wheels are properly aligned according to the manufacturer’s specifications, which can improve driving performance, tyre wear, and fuel efficiency.
In this blog, we will go over how to read a wheel alignment report in more detail, as well as what you need to do before undergoing the report.
What is wheel alignment?
Wheel alignment is a maintenance procedure that involves adjusting the angles of the wheels on a vehicle so that they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications.
The purpose of wheel alignment is to ensure that the wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Proper alignment helps to optimise tyre wear, improve steering and handling, and maximise fuel efficiency.
There are three main alignment angles that are adjusted during the alignment process: camber, caster and toe.
Regular wheel alignments are important for maintaining the performance and safety of a vehicle.
When do you need to book a wheel alignment?
Regular wheel alignments can help prolong the life of your tyres, improve vehicle safety, and give you a smoother, more comfortable ride. It is important to understand when a wheel alignment is required, whether it is needed from daily use or after an accident.
It is recommended that you go for a wheel alignment every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. You should also book a wheel alignment if you notice any signs of uneven tyre wear, such as bald spots, feathering, or cupping. Other signs that your vehicle may need an alignment include the car pulling to one side of the road, the steering wheel not returning to centre after making a turn, or the car feeling unstable or wandering while driving.
If you have recently hit a curb or pothole or need your vehicle checked after even a minor accident, you should also have your wheel alignment checked, as that can cause the alignment to fall out of the manufacturer’s specification.
Checklist for before your wheel alignment
Before diving into the alignment process, it’s crucial to conduct a pre-check yourself. This is to ensure you are aware of the condition of your vehicle before you let the professionals take a look and to get a clearer image of your wheel alignment before and after any adjustments.
You will need to consider the following:
- Take a close look at all the tyres to check for any signs of damage, unusual wear patterns, or improper inflation levels.
- Make sure that the tyres are the right size and correctly inflated.
- Inspect the steering and suspension parts for any signs of wear or damage.
- Check for any extra weight in the passenger and cargo areas.
- Make sure to follow the correct steps to confirm that the curb height is on point.
Different wheel alignment angles
Caster
Caster refers to the angle of the spindle support arm that determines whether it tilts forward or backward.
Typically, most vehicles are designed with a positive caster angle ranging from 3 to 5 degrees, where the top of the spindle is tilted towards the rear. This aids in the self-centering of the wheels while driving and enhances stability when cruising at high speeds.
A negative caster angle, where the top of the spindle tilts forward, is beneficial for immediate turning but may lead to instability at higher speeds, potentially causing shimmy, wandering, or pulling to one side.
It’s worth noting that not all vehicles allow for caster adjustment, and in some cases, correcting the caster angle may involve adjusting the subframe. To best understand which is right for your vehicle, consult the technician who will be conducting your wheel alignment.
Camber
Camber is a critical aspect of a vehicle’s alignment that influences the tilt of the tyres at the top, either towards the inside or the outside. This angle is measured in degrees and can significantly impact the handling and tyre wear of a vehicle.
A misalignment in the camber can also result in accelerated wear on the outer edges of the tyre, impacting its longevity and performance, as well as wearing out the inner edges of the tyre.
It’s important to address camber issues promptly to ensure optimal vehicle handling, tyre longevity, and overall driving safety.
Toe
Toe refers to the comparison of the distance between the front and rear of a pair of tyres, typically recorded in degrees of measurement or linear mm or inches. The further the distance between the front and rear of the tyres from the centre, the higher the values in mm or inches.
Incorrect toe alignment can result in rapid tyre wear and reduced steering control, which is why it is essential to get this checked during a wheel alignment assessment. Correct toe alignment is essential for optimal tyre wear and steering response, making regular checks and adjustments a worthwhile maintenance practice.
Contact Pro-Align
We’ve discussed how to read a wheel alignment report, as well as the importance of getting regular checks. If you are looking for more information on wheel alignments or how our machines get the job done more efficiently than traditional methods, get in touch with our expert team today.
At Pro-Align, we At Pro-Align we offer top-quality wheel alignment systems from Hunter, including the Elite TD, PA200 ACE, PA200 PLUS and PA200 Lite. Browse our range today.
