24/02/2011: Setting things straight about your tyres.

Did you know that your tyres can wear out prematurely if you run your car on wheels that are out of alignment? On top of that, did you know that the same mis-alignment problems can increase the rolling resistance of your tyres and so lead to higher fuel consumption? These are not simply scare-mongering thoughts, they are actual proven facts that every motorist should take into consideration because quite apart from costing you money, damaged tyres are a risk to road safety.

Much of this potential threat to your tyres and your pocket has arisen as a result of the recent snow snow which causes a prolonged period of tricky driving conditions across the UK. Quite apart from the risk to your tyres of hidden potholes and snow-covered obstacles, you can easily put your wheels out of alignment simply by sliding into a kerb at very low speed. In fact you may well not even notice any difference in the way your car feels. Your tyres will though and that’s the problem.

The point is that your tyres can easily be affected by the frequently significant misalignment or damage to components that can occur even in minor impacts; especially if these happen when the wheel is at an unusual angle, causing damage that can affect the way your tyres run and wear. So if you are in any doubt, it’s best to have your wheel alignment checked as soon as possible in order to save unnecessary wear and tear to your tyres that will reduce your safety and increase your costs.

So in order to protect your tyres, many workshops across the country are equipped with the latest four wheel alignment systems which can determine if your alignment needs adjusting in just a few minutes. In fact modern wheel alignment systems now use sophisticated technology to measure 14 primary angles of all four wheels in a matter of minutes. Not only can this help reduce your running costs, it can also make for safer driving and better handling as any vehicle pull can be identified, and steering wheels set straight, to avoid further problems - which really is good news for your tyres.