27 Feb Auto Stability Triangle Part 1 | Overview
As car owners, we need to have a good grasp of basic auto maintenance. In addition, we should know how auto maintenance applies to the safety and performance of our vehicles. In this blog, I will discuss the auto stability triangle and how it affects different systems in your car. The suspension, tires, and wheel alignment are the three legs of the auto stability triangle. Below I will discuss how they work together and how they benefit motorists.
What is an Auto Stability Triangle?
An Auto Stability Triangle is a concept that three vehicle systems work together to provide the motorist with a safe driving experience. The suspension, tires, and alignment are different components that all work in sync. Together, they increase your vehicle’s steering, stopping, and stability. Let’s get an overview of each system.
Suspension
Your vehicle’s suspension helps smooth the ride whether you are driving over bumps, around curves, or through rough terrain. The various suspension components not only hold the vehicle’s weight steady, but they are also responsible for keeping all the tires on the ground providing constant traction.
Tires
Until hovercrafts become a real thing, tires are the driving force of momentum on your car. If your tires don’t touch the ground, your vehicle isn’t going to get very far. More traction equals better handling and stability. With more handling and stability comes an increased level of safety.
Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for auto stability because when your wheels point in different directions or are misaligned, it becomes difficult to move efficiently in the correct direction. Not only that, misalignment can cause excessive tire tread wear and handling issues.
Why is Auto Stability Important?
Have you ever borrowed someone’s car that just felt dodgy or unsafe? I once used a friend’s car for a day while mine was in the shop, and I was too nervous to actually drive it. The steering felt weird, and the whole car shook when I went over 35mph. It was not a pleasant experience. I couldn’t wait to get my car back.
Safety & Handling
Vehicle performance is more than just driving fast. Your auto must also be safe and provide adequate handling to prevent collisions and other road mishaps. To that end, it is essential to look at the bigger picture when getting routine maintenance. It’s not enough to simply check the tire pressure. You should also inspect the tire tread, assess your vehicle’s overall handling and suspension, and be aware when changes happen.
Reliability
The peace of mind that comes from knowing that your automobile will get you where you are going is so important. Things like flat tires or broken components can cause you to miss appointments, get stranded, and can ruin your whole day.
Cost Savings
Investing in routine maintenance and performing necessary repairs actually saves you money in the long run. Service technicians often find minor issues before they become major (also known as ‘expensive’) repairs. Clean air and fuel filters can help improve your mpg, and with gas prices being what they are, saving at the pump is always welcome. Well-maintained vehicles have a higher resale value too.
Auto Stability Maintenance
If you are wondering what service interval you should do to improve your vehicle’s stability, check out your owner’s manual. Auto manufacturers spend a lot of time & money on research to determine how often maintenance needs to be performed. It takes the guesswork out of vehicle ownership. If you still have questions, visit your local service station to discuss your auto stability maintenance needs.
Schedule Service in Plymouth Meeting, PA
Plymouth Auto & Tire Center has been serving Plymouth Meeting, PA, since 1999. Our skilled technicians can answer all your auto stability maintenance service questions. Call us today at (610) 825-6558 or visit us online to schedule service today!
Next Up in Blog Series
Auto Stability Triangle Part 2 | Suspension
This blog will explore vehicle suspension and how it relates to the Auto Stability Triangle.