Wheel alignment
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Helping you stay on track
Tracking, or wheel alignment is not only important for good hold on the road, it also helps you get more miles out of your tyres. If you ever clip a curb, or drive through a pot hole, you might find that your wheel alignment is thrown out.
The HiQ team are experts in tracking and will check the angle and direction at which the tyres are set. These will be checked against the manufacturers' specifications to ensure your car is in tip top shape.
Laser alignment
At HiQ we have access to cutting-edge equipment that uses laser technology to ensure precise alignment between wheels. Our trained staff will use the equipment to find any alignment problems and will sort them out for you as quickly as possible. Why not find out if Laser Alignment is available at your local HiQ centre?
Computerised alignment
Computerised wheel alignment provides the highest degree of accuracy. Our digital equipment also features a display screen so you can view adjustments being made in real time and compare pre and post alignment information.
To benefit from longer-lasting tyres, improved handling and more mileage for your money, come in and see us today.
Why it's important to have your wheels aligned
- Longer lasting tyres - Misaligned wheels can increase tyre wear, which means you'll need to replace them sooner. You can save yourself time and tyres by checking your alignment regularly.
- More miles for your money - If your wheels are misaligned, they have to work harder, which means your car will use more fuel.
- Better handling - Misalignment may mean that your car pulls to one side, or that the steering wheel vibrates. With total alignment, road shock is absorbed, and your car will be easier to handle.
- Safer driving - When we align your wheels, we'll also check the suspension system, which enables us to spot worn parts before they cause any costly problems.
Wheel Alignment FAQs
Wheel alignment often referred to as “tracking” refers to the angle and direction at which your tyres are positioned. Specialist equipment is used to accurately position wheels as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.
High speed impacts with potholes and kerbs can cause wheel misalignment resulting in uneven or irregular tyre wear and poor handling characteristics.
Yes, poor wheel alignment can cause vibration or ‘shaking’ as wheels work against each other.
An alignment is not ‘needed’ with new tyres however we always recommend having the tracking checked. This is a free service offered by many of our centres. Ensuring that your wheels are aligned correctly will help to prolong the tyre life by avoiding irregular or uneven wear.
In short, the answer is yes. ‘Tracking’ is a term used to describe the process of wheel alignment to adjust the angle and direction at which your tyres are positioned.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms it could be a sign that your wheels are misaligned, and we would recommend having this checked by one of our trained technicians:
- Uneven or irregular tyre wear
- Steering wheel angled when driving straight
- Steering wheel pulling to the left or right
- Vibrations and/or unusual noises when steering
A 4 wheel alignment often takes around one hour however, we always recommend allowing a little extra time.
4-wheel alignment refers to the process of adjusting all four wheels. This may include a front toe and caster adjustment for front-end alignment, while the rear wheels receive a toe and camber adjustment. Rear wheel misalignment is less noticeable but can have a major impact on your fuel economy and tyre wear.
You may notice one or more of these common wheel alignment symptoms:
- Uneven or irregular tyre wear
- Steering wheel angled when driving straight
- Steering wheel pulling to the left or right
- Vibrations and/or unusual noises when steering
Wheel alignment prices vary by centre depending on the type of wheel alignment specified. Many of our centres offer both 2-wheel and 4-wheel alignment. To explore the services offered or for an accurate price find your nearest centre.
We recommend having your alignment checked every 12,000 miles or once a year. Many of our centres offer a free alignment check so be sure to ask one of our trained technicians about this service.