Burning brake smell ...

[Hmmm2]

They DID align the tires the first time. When I saw what the tires that went 'front to back' looked like, I asked the service writer what caused that?!?! She said the alignment was off. I never had alignment problems .. but the day before I took it in (and the reason I took it in) was because the 3 was pulling slightly to one side STARTING ON THAT DAY. No way could the tires have worn that way that fast. So now I see the front tires doing it again (the ones that were perfect), yet the 3 is NOT pulling in any way and it drives fine. EXCEPT .... for that thing that some other members have questioned .. when making a very tight turn, the front end thumps as it is turning and makes a thumping sound.

[tower]

FWIW, they align wheels, NOT tires.

[Big Dad]

Originally Posted by Hmmm3

They DID align the tires the first time. When I saw what the tires that went 'front to back' looked like, I asked the service writer what caused that?!?! She said the alignment was off. I never had alignment problems .. but the day before I took it in (and the reason I took it in) was because the 3 was pulling slightly to one side STARTING ON THAT DAY. No way could the tires have worn that way that fast. So now I see the front tires doing it again (the ones that were perfect), yet the 3 is NOT pulling in any way and it drives fine. EXCEPT .... for that thing that some other members have questioned .. when making a very tight turn, the front end thumps as it is turning and makes a thumping sound.

Here's a quick explanation:

http://www.ozebiz.com.au/racetech/theory/align.html

I'd start getting smart about what causes that pattern of wear to figure out the problem.

I remember seeing tires similar to the ones you describe. I think it might be called feathering or cupping? I'm sure you'll find out relatively quick.

[RubHer Yellow Ducky]

Originally Posted by Big Dad

Here's a quick explanation:

http://www.ozebiz.com.au/racetech/theory/align.html

I'd start getting smart about what causes that pattern of wear to figure out the problem.

I remember seeing tires similar to the ones you describe. I think it might be called feathering or cupping? I'm sure you'll find out relatively quick.

thanks DAD,

GREAT explaination...

[Hmmm2]

Thanks for the WHEEL alignment tutorial, Big Dad.