4 Wheel Alignment

A 4-wheel alignment, involves adjusting all four wheels of a vehicle to ensure they are properly aligned according to specified angles. This process includes aligning both the front and rear wheels, optimising their angles for proper contact with the road surface. A 4-wheel alignment is more comprehensive than a front or rear wheel alignment alone, as it takes into account all wheels on the vehicle.

The key angles adjusted during a 4-wheel alignment are:

Toe: The angle at which the wheels point in relation to each other when viewed from above. It can be adjusted for the front and rear wheels.

Thrust Angle: The angle of the rear wheels concerning the vehicle's centerline. Adjusting the thrust angle ensures that the vehicle travels straight.

Performing a 4-wheel alignment is crucial for several reasons:

Optimal Handling: Proper alignment ensures that all four wheels work together, providing better handling, stability, and control.

Even Tire Wear: Correct alignment helps distribute the vehicle's weight evenly across all four tires, reducing uneven tire wear.

Fuel Efficiency: A well-aligned vehicle experiences reduced rolling resistance, contributing to improved fuel efficiency.

Safety: Proper alignment enhances overall vehicle safety by improving stability and handling characteristics.

Vehicles can go out of alignment due to factors such as hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards, as well as normal wear and tear.

Regular 4-wheel alignment checks are part of routine vehicle maintenance and are recommended to prevent issues associated with poor alignment. Qualified technicians typically use specialised alignment equipment to measure and adjust the angles accurately. If you notice signs of poor alignment, such as uneven tyre wear, steering issues, or a vehicle that pulls to one side, it's advisable to have a 4-wheel alignment performed.

Wheel alignment is an important part of car care. It determines the angle and direction of which your tyres are set.

Your wheels need to be aligned to the recommended position as outlined in your vehicle's manufacturer specification.

Hitting kerbs or driving at speed through a pothole can result in wheel misalignment. Tyres which are poorly aligned may quickly deteriorate due to wear and tear.

Signs that you need to get your wheel alignments checked:

Not sure if your vehicle requires alignment, call into Arrow Tyres Ltd in Hornchurch and speak to one of our trained technicians.