Does a Difference in Wheel Alignment Data Affect Tires?
2 Answers
Yes, under normal circumstances, any difference in wheel alignment data can lead to uneven tire wear. Extended Information on Wheel Alignment: 1. Introduction: Wheel alignment is based on the four-wheel parameters of the vehicle, adjusted to ensure good driving performance and a certain level of reliability. 2. Characteristics: The installation of a car's steering wheels, steering knuckles, and front axle has specific relative positions. This specific relative positioning is called steering wheel alignment, also known as front wheel alignment. Front wheel alignment includes four aspects: caster angle, kingpin inclination angle, camber angle, and toe-in. This applies to the two front steering wheels. Similarly, the rear wheels also have relative positioning with the rear axle, known as rear wheel alignment. Rear wheel alignment includes camber angle and individual rear wheel toe-in. Collectively, front wheel alignment and rear wheel alignment are referred to as four-wheel alignment.
I recently encountered this issue and would like to share my experience. Last time when driving, I felt the steering wheel was slightly off-center. After a check at the repair shop, the wheel alignment data was incorrect, with deviations in parameters like toe angle and camber angle. The mechanic told me that such discrepancies would cause uneven tire wear, such as one side wearing out faster than the other. And indeed, the inner side of my front tires was completely worn down, almost exposing the steel belts. If detected earlier, the tires could have lasted another 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. Now during every maintenance, I ask the technician to check the alignment data to avoid wasting money on premature tire replacements. Actually, there are many reasons for alignment deviations, such as hitting potholes without slowing down or poor driving habits. If ignored, not only will tires wear out quickly, but driving on highways may also cause shaking, which is very unsafe. In short, regular alignment checks are extremely important—they can save a lot of trouble and expenses.
