Tracking is the angle your wheels sit at relative to each other and the road. Hit a pothole or clip a kerb hard enough and it can be knocked out, and you’ll start wearing tyres on one edge without noticing.
Signs your tracking is out
- The car pulls to one side on a straight, flat road
- The steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight
- Tyres worn on the inside or outside edge
- Tyres squealing on gentle corners
Why it’s worth doing
Correct alignment makes tyres last longer, keeps the car steering straight and helps fuel economy. A set of tyres worn out on one edge costs far more than an alignment check.
When to have it checked
After fitting new tyres, after any steering or suspension work, and after a heavy knock from a pothole or kerb.
Common questions
How long does a tracking check take?
[CONFIRM: typical time].
Should I have it done with new tyres?
It’s a good idea. Checking the alignment when the tyres go on helps the new set wear evenly from the start.