Your LTA inspection is right around the corner. It’s time to get your vehicle in tip top shape so why not start with a simple car service?
Failure to get your vehicle in optimal condition can result in re-inspections or worse, total suspension!
While there are many components to check, this blog will focus on one element – the car side slip:
What Is a Car Side Slip?
A car side slip refers to the lateral movement or “slip” of your vehicle’s wheels. Ideally, your car should be moving linearly when it’s on the road. The tendency to drift left or right are clear indications of alignment issues.
This is known as a side slip and it’s something LTA inspectors always look out for.
Why Is a Car Side Slip Test Important?
Ensures Proper Wheel Alignment
A side slip test will ensure proper wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels will pull your car to one side. This is the root cause of side slips, making it difficult to drive linearly.
This not only affects your driving comfort but also poses a safety risk, especially at high speeds. Proper wheel alignment ensures a smoother and safer driving experience.
During your inspection, this will be categorised under “roadworthiness” – the better your slip ratio, the more roadworthy you’ll be.
Reduces Tire Wear
Misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear. This can shorten the lifespan of your tires, forcing you to buy new wheels sooner than expected. Uneven wear can cause poor tire traction especially in wet or slippery conditions.
By addressing car side slip issues early, you ensure even tire wear and enhanced safety. Your car will have better road grip, maximising durability while saving you from the expense of frequent replacements.
Improves Fuel Efficiency
A misalignment will cause your engine to work harder. This extra effort increases rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. This can significantly reduce your car’s fuel efficiency over time.
A side slip test helps detect any alignment issues, allowing you to correct them. This not only improves your fuel economy but also reduces your car’s environmental impact, lowering fuel emissions.
Prevents Suspension Damage
A misalignment can affect your suspension system too. Your suspension is responsible for absorbing shock and maintaining stability. A bad suspension can be a reason why your car is bumpy when driving.
Uneven pressure places additional stress on your suspension components. This can result in ealy wear and expensive repairs. By resolving side slip issues, you not only protect your suspension system but also ensure a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Avoid Failed Inspections
The LTA inspection has strict requirements. Any misalignment could lead to your vehicle being flagged as unfit for the road. This can result in re-inspections, potential fines or worse, your vehicle may be taken off the road!
A car side slip test will ensure your car is travelling linearly. This will save you time, stress, and additional costs of getting more work done.
How to Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment
A car side slip is directly related to wheel alignment. Maintaining proper wheel alignment will not only decrease side slips but also improve your car’s overall performance. Here are some tips to maintain proper alignment:
- Check Tire Pressure: Always check your tire pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated can lead to misalignment over time. This is due to uneven distribution of weight and contact with the road surface.
- Tire Rotation: Consider rotating your tires at every service. Tire rotations ensure even wear across all tires. This can extend their lifespan while ensuring proper alignment.
- Avoid Rough Driving Habits: Always drive carefully. Rough driving habits can easily knock your wheels out of alignment. This includes driving over speed bumps too quickly, hitting curbs or frequently driving on bad road conditions.
- Schedule Routine Alignments: Meet your scheduled services conscientiously. Even if your car feels fine, it is recommended to get a wheel alignment every 6,000 to 10,000 kilometres. Routine alignments can prevent long-term damage and better fuel efficiency.
- Be Mindful of Steering Issues: Always be wary of existing steering issues. Early signs of misalignment include pulling to one side or an off-centre steering wheel. Address these symptoms immediately to avoid further complications.
The Bottom Line
There are many components that go into a successful inspection and your car side slip is one of them. Your side slip is also directly related to your wheel alignment, as it ensures linear motion and optimal performance.
All in all, remember to keep your side slip in check so your car stays on the right track!
Prep for inspection with Motoserv! Contact us to find out more.
