Modern car technology and how it affects tyres, alignment and servicing

We can all see how far vehicle technology has come. Modern cars incorporate advanced technology designs to improve all aspects of performance, safety and comfort. Features that once felt premium such as lane assist, adaptive cruise control and parking sensors, are now commonplace and feature on standard models.   

This guide explains how modern car technology works alongside your tyres and servicing, why maintenance matters more than ever and what issues drivers should look out for. 

  

Why good tyre maintenance matters 

Modern cars use sensors and computer systems that constantly monitor grip, steering input, braking and road conditions. Your tyres are the only part of the car touching the road, meaning they directly affect how accurately these systems perform. 

If tyres are worn unevenly, incorrectly inflated or poorly fitted, it can interfere with vehicle handling and electronic safety systems. 

 

Which car technologies can be affected by misaligned wheels or worn tyres? 

Several modern features depend on roadworthy tyres and correct wheel alignment to operate properly. 

Lane keeping assist 

Lane assist systems use cameras and steering sensors to help keep the vehicle centred in the lane. 

If your wheel alignment is off, the vehicle may naturally pull to one side, which can confuse the system or reduce accuracy. 

Automatic emergency braking 

Emergency braking systems rely on tyre grip to stop the car safely and efficiently. Worn tyres can increase stopping distances, especially in wet weather. 

Adaptive cruise control 

Adaptive cruise control helps maintain safe distances between vehicles, but braking performance still depends heavily on tyre condition. 

Traction control and stability control 

These systems monitor wheel movement and road grip. Unevenly worn tyres or incorrect tyre sizes can affect how the systems interpret wheel speed data. 

Electric vehicle systems 

Electric vehicles are often heavier than petrol or diesel cars due to battery weight. This places additional stress on tyres and suspension components so choose EV compatible tyres that have a higher load index. 

  

Why wheel alignment matters more in modern vehicles 

Wheel alignment refers to the positioning of your wheels and suspension angles. 

Modern cars are designed with extremely precise handling systems. Even small alignment issues can cause noticeable problems. 

Poor alignment may lead to: 

• Uneven tyre wear 

• Steering pulling to one side 

• Reduced fuel efficiency 

• Poor handling 

• Increased tyre replacement costs 

• Reduced performance from driver assistance systems 

Because many modern vehicles use sensitive steering and sensor technology, alignment problems are often more noticeable than on older cars. 

  

What causes wheel alignment problems? 

Alignment issues can happen gradually or suddenly. 

Common causes include: 

• Potholes 

• Speed bumps 

• Kerb impacts 

• Worn suspension parts 

• Accident damage 

• General wear over time 

Even everyday driving on poor road surfaces can slowly affect wheel angles. 

  

How often should wheel alignment be checked? 

You should check your wheel alignment once a year or every 10,000 to 12,000 miles. However, this is just a guideline so if you have any concerns book in for a wheel alignment check straight away. Book now if any of the following points apply to your vehicle: if the steering wheel feels off centre, if the car pulls left or right, if the tyres are wearing unevenly, or if you hit a pothole too hard.  

  

How modern technology affects tyre wear 

New vehicle technology has also changed how tyres wear down. 

Heavier vehicles 

Modern SUVs, hybrids and electric vehicles are generally heavier than older cars. Extra weight increases pressure on tyres when accelerating, braking and cornering. 

Instant torque in electric vehicles 

Electric cars deliver power instantly, which can wear tyres faster if driven aggressively. 

Larger wheels and lower profile tyres 

Many modern vehicles come with larger alloy wheels and thinner tyre sidewalls. While these may improve appearance and handling, they can sometimes wear more quickly and be more vulnerable to pothole damage. 

Advanced suspension systems 

Modern suspension systems improve comfort and handling, but worn components can quickly affect tyre wear patterns if not maintained properly. 

  

Are electric vehicles harder on tyres? 

In many cases, yes, they are. Electric vehicles are typically heavier and produce instant torque, both of which can increase tyre wear. 

This means regular tyre inspections, alignment checks and servicing are especially important for EV owners. 

Many electric vehicles also require tyres specifically designed to handle additional weight and rolling resistance requirements. 

 

Can skipping servicing affect safety systems? 

Yes. Many modern systems rely on sensors, cameras and calibration. If components wear out or tyres become unsafe, certain features may not work as intended. For example, incorrect tyre pressures may affect braking performance, worn suspension may impact stability control, poor alignment can affect steering assistance systems and damaged sensors may trigger dashboard warnings. Regular servicing helps keep these systems operating correctly. Book a service with Merityre today and let us know if you have noticed any issues so that we can carry out all the necessary checks. Find your local branch via our locations page.