When customers call us asking about "tracking" or "wheel alignment," they're often using the terms interchangeably — but they're not the same thing. Understanding the difference could save you money and ensure you're getting the right service for your vehicle.
"Tracking" is an older, informal term that usually refers to adjusting the toe angle of the front wheels only. Toe is the angle at which your tyres point inward or outward when viewed from above, like a pair of feet being pigeon-toed or splayed out.
A basic tracking check involves measuring this angle and adjusting it to reduce uneven tyre wear and correct a car that pulls to one side. It's a 2-wheel, front-only service and uses simpler equipment than a full alignment.
Full wheel alignment — also called 4-wheel alignment or geometry — is a comprehensive service that measures and adjusts all three alignment angles on all four wheels:
This is done using computerised equipment with sensors on all four wheels simultaneously, comparing real-time measurements against your vehicle's manufacturer specifications.
| Feature | Tracking | 4-Wheel Alignment |
|---|---|---|
| Angles measured | Toe only | Toe, camber, caster |
| Wheels covered | Front 2 only | All 4 |
| Equipment | Basic toe bars or simple gauges | Computerised sensors |
| Printout provided | Usually not | Yes — before & after |
| Suitable for modern cars | Limited | Yes |
| Time required | 15–30 minutes | 45–60 minutes |
For most modern vehicles, 4-wheel alignment is the correct service. Here's why:
Most passenger cars built in the last 20 years have independent rear suspension with adjustable or measurable geometry. If the rear wheels are out of alignment, adjusting only the front won't fully solve the problem — and can even make handling worse.
If only toe is adjusted without measuring camber and caster, an underlying problem with the suspension or geometry may go undetected. A full alignment gives a complete picture of your vehicle's geometry.
Significant impacts can affect camber and caster, not just toe. A basic tracking adjustment would correct the symptom (toe) without fixing the underlying change in geometry.
Our recommendation: Unless you're driving a classic car with fixed-beam front axle, book 4-wheel computerised alignment rather than basic tracking. The additional cost is small compared to the benefit of a complete geometry check.
At Pro Flo Exhausts & Tyres on Canal Road, we offer computerised 4-wheel alignment with a full before-and-after printout so you can see exactly what was adjusted. Our team has over 20 years of experience and we're trusted by thousands of Bradford motorists.
Call us or book online. We'll measure all four wheels and provide a full printout — from Pro Flo, 365 Canal Road, Bradford BD2 1AL.
Book Online Call 01274 370194