Kerékösszetartás

Kerékösszetartás, commonly referred to as toe in Hungarian, is a fundamental aspect of vehicle alignment. It describes the angle at which the wheels of a vehicle are turned relative to each other when viewed from above. Specifically, it is the inward or outward angling of the wheels on the same axle. When the leading edges of the wheels are closer together than the trailing edges, the toe is considered positive, often called "toe-in." Conversely, if the leading edges are further apart, it is negative, known as "toe-out." If the wheels are perfectly parallel, the toe is neutral.

Proper kerékösszetartás is crucial for several reasons. It directly impacts tire wear, vehicle stability, and handling. Incorrect toe settings can lead to uneven and accelerated tire wear, as the tires are forced to scrub against the road surface. This scrubbing motion reduces tire lifespan and can affect fuel efficiency. In terms of handling, toe influences how a vehicle steers and responds to driver input. For instance, toe-out on the front wheels can make a vehicle more responsive to steering, but can also make it feel twitchy and unstable, especially at higher speeds. Toe-in, on the other hand, can improve straight-line stability but may make the vehicle feel less agile.

The kerékösszetartás is typically measured in degrees or millimeters and is adjusted during a wheel alignment service. This alignment is usually performed when new tires are installed, after suspension work has been done, or if the driver notices signs of uneven tire wear or handling problems. Maintaining the correct kerékösszetartás is a routine but essential part of vehicle maintenance.