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Understanding the Distinction Between Tracking and Wheel Alignment

Many garage owners encounter confusion among customers regarding the difference between tracking and wheel alignment. While both procedures are crucial for optimal vehicle performance and tyre health, they address distinct aspects of a car’s steering geometry. This blog post from Supalign aims to clarify the distinction between tracking and wheel alignment, empowering you to effectively communicate these services to your customers.

Tracking: A Focus on Thrust Angle

Tracking, also known as thrust alignment, specifically targets the thrust angle. This angle refers to the direction in which the wheels are pointed when the steering wheel is centred. Ideally, both front wheels should be parallel and point directly forward. Even a slight misalignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side while driving, leading to uneven tyre wear and reduced fuel efficiency.

The tracking adjustment process involves minor corrections to the tie rods, which connect the steering rack to the wheels. By adjusting the tie rods, technicians can ensure both front wheels share the same thrust angle, resulting in a straighter and more controlled driving experience.

Wheel Alignment: A Comprehensive Approach

Wheel alignment, on the other hand, encompasses a broader spectrum of adjustments. It addresses not just the thrust angle, but also:

  • Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the wheels from the vertical plane. Excessive positive camber (wheels angled outwards) can cause premature wear on the outer edges of the tyres, while excessive negative camber (wheels angled inwards) can lead to uneven wear across the tread and impact handling.
  • Caster: The angle at which the steering axis tilts in relation to the vertical plane, influencing steering feel and stability. Improper caster settings can make steering feel heavy or imprecise.
  • Toe: The slight inward or outward angle of the top of the tyre relative to the bottom, impacting tyre wear. Toe-in refers to when the tops of the tyres are angled slightly inwards, while toe-out describes the opposite. Incorrect toe settings can cause rapid and uneven tyre wear, along with reduced fuel efficiency and a tendency for the vehicle to wander while driving.

Modern wheel alignment equipment utilises sophisticated sensors and computerised analysis to measure these angles precisely. Technicians can then make adjustments to the suspension components, such as control arms and strut mounts, to bring the alignment into manufacturer specifications. A properly aligned vehicle exhibits:

  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: Reduced rolling resistance due to optimal tyre contact with the road.
  • Enhanced Tyre Life: More even tyre wear across the tread surface, extending tyre lifespan and saving customers money.
  • Sharper Steering Response: Precise and predictable handling characteristics, leading to a more enjoyable driving experience.
  • Reduced Tyre Noise: Minimised vibrations caused by misaligned tyres, contributing to a quieter cabin environment.

Investing in a Wheel Aligner: A Sound Business Decision

For garage owners in the UK, investing in a high-quality wheel aligner from Supalign unlocks the potential to offer a comprehensive service package to your customers. By understanding the distinction between tracking and wheel alignment, you can effectively explain the benefits of each procedure. This empowers you to attract customers seeking a complete solution for optimal vehicle performance and tyre health.

Beyond Customer Satisfaction: The Long-Term Benefits of Wheel Alignment

Offering wheel alignment services goes beyond simply satisfying your customers. Properly aligned vehicles are safer on the road. Misaligned tyres can compromise a car’s handling characteristics, particularly in emergency situations. By correcting these issues, you contribute to a safer driving experience for your customers and the wider community. Additionally, wheel alignment helps to reduce tyre wear, which translates to less waste and a more environmentally friendly outcome.

Supalign as Your Partner in Wheel Alignment Solutions

Supalign offers a wide range of wheel aligners to suit your specific needs and budget. Our equipment is sourced from leading manufacturers and incorporates cutting-edge technology for accurate and efficient measurements. We understand that downtime can be costly, so we provide comprehensive after-sales support and training to ensure you maximise your investment.

Contact us today to discuss how our wheel aligners can elevate your garage’s service offerings, customer satisfaction, and contribution to road safety. Let Supalign be your partner in delivering complete vehicle care solutions.

Offering an extensive range of laser, CCD & 3D aligners Supalign is a one stop shop for wheel alignment requirements.

  

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