Keeping your tyres in good shape isn’t just about checking the pressure or looking for wear and tear. One crucial, yet often overlooked aspect of car maintenance is proper wheel alignment, which plays a vital role in extending your tyre’s lifespan and maintaining your vehicle’s overall performance. Proper alignment not only reduces tyre wear but also improves handling and stability. By understanding its importance, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure safer, smoother rides.

What Is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of your vehicle’s suspension—the system that connects your vehicle to its wheels. Proper alignment involves fine-tuning the suspension, which controls the angle of the tyres to ensure they make optimal contact with the road. There are three key alignment angles to consider:

Camber: This is the inward or outward tilt of the tyres when viewed from the front. Too much tilt in either direction can cause uneven tyre wear.

Caster: This angle refers to the tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side. Proper caster improves stability and cornering.

Toe: This measures whether the tyres point inward or outward when viewed from above. Incorrect toe can lead to premature tyre wear and handling issues.

When any of these angles are off, your wheels are misaligned, which can have a significant impact on your tyres and how your car behaves on the road.

How Improper Wheel Alignment Affects Tyre Wear

Misalignment causes certain areas of your tyres to bear more pressure than others, leading to faster and uneven tyre wear. For instance, if your camber is misaligned, you might notice the inner or outer edges of your tyres wearing out more quickly than the centre. Over time, this accelerates tyre wear and reduces their lifespan, making your tyres more susceptible to a tyre puncture.

How Worn Tyres Impact Vehicle Performance

Tyre wear doesn’t just affect how your tyres look—it has a direct impact on your vehicle’s performance. When tyres wear unevenly, their ability to grip the road diminishes, especially in wet or slippery conditions. This can lead to longer stopping distances and less responsive handling, making your vehicle harder to control. Additionally, misaligned wheels can cause the car to pull to one side, reducing comfort and stability. Keeping your tyres aligned not only extends their lifespan but also ensures your vehicle performs at its best.

How to Tell if Your Vehicle Needs Proper Alignment

There are several warning signs that indicate it’s time to check your alignment. If your car pulls to one side while driving straight, you may have an alignment issue. Other signs include a vibrating steering wheel, uneven tyre wear, or unusual tyre noise. Catching these signs early can prevent more severe tyre damage and ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road. If you notice any of these indicators, it's time to book a wheel alignment service.

Wheel alignment might seem like a minor maintenance task, but its effect on tyre wear and vehicle performance is significant. Regular alignment checks, combined with proper tyre inflation, help prevent uneven tyre wear, enhance safety, and maximise your vehicle’s performance. Don’t underestimate this crucial upkeep—it keeps your tyres in tip-top shape and saves you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.

Bridgestone tyres are designed for long-lasting durability and superior performance. Browse our tyre catalogue to find the perfect set of tyres tailored to your driving needs.