What Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment (also called tracking) is the process of adjusting your car's suspension so that all four wheels point in exactly the right direction relative to each other and the road. It has nothing to do with the wheels themselves it's about the angles of the suspension components.
Even a small misalignment causes your tyres to scrub sideways as you drive, wearing them unevenly and wasting fuel. It can also make your steering feel off pulling left or right, or requiring constant correction to drive in a straight line.
Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
- Your car pulls to one side when you let go of the steering wheel
- The steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight
- Your tyres are wearing unevenly one edge wears much faster than the other
- The steering feels loose or imprecise
- You've recently hit a pothole, kerb or speed bump hard
- You've just had new tyres or suspension work done
Tyre wear inspection and specialist referral
We inspect visible tyre wear and discuss any pulling or vibration you have noticed. A visual check does not measure camber, caster or toe. If alignment may be involved, we advise a specialist measurement before any correction is agreed.
2-Wheel vs 4-Wheel Alignment – What's the Difference?
2-wheel alignment (front axle only) suits most standard front-wheel-drive cars. It addresses the majority of steering pull and uneven wear problems.
4-wheel alignment is needed for all-wheel-drive vehicles, rear-wheel-drive cars, and cars with an adjustable rear axle. If we identify that you need alignment work, we'll advise which type applies to your vehicle.
How Long Does Wheel Alignment Last?
Under normal driving conditions, alignment can last 1–2 years before needing a recheck. However, it should also be checked after any of the following events:
- Hitting a pothole, kerb or speed bump hard
- Having new tyres fitted
- Suspension, steering or wheel bearing work
- A minor collision, even at low speed
- Noticing any pulling or uneven tyre wear
Will Catching Misalignment Save Me Money on Tyres?
Yes – significantly. A misaligned wheel can wear through a tyre in half the normal lifespan because the rubber scrubs sideways with every rotation. Spotting the problem early and getting it corrected elsewhere can add tens of thousands of miles to your tyre life. That's why we build the check into every tyre fit at no extra cost.
Why Get Your Alignment Check at Salek?
We include a free alignment inspection with every tyre we fit because putting a new tyre on a misaligned wheel is a waste of your money. If we find an issue we'll tell you clearly, show you exactly what we found, and advise on next steps – no pressure, no upsell. You leave knowing the full picture.
Need tyres too? Book online or call 07341 216705 and the alignment check comes included.
Serving Ashford, Feltham, Staines & the Surrounding Area
We're based at 32–34 Feltham Road, Ashford TW15 1DH easy to reach from Feltham (TW13), Staines-upon-Thames (TW18), Sunbury-on-Thames (TW16), Bedfont (TW14), Stanwell (TW19) and Shepperton (TW17). Free parking on site.