Tire Lead

1998 Mercury Sable V6-3.0L DOHC VIN SSECTION Tire Lead
Lead is the movement or wander of the vehicle from a straight path on a level road with no pressure on the steering wheel.

Lead is usually caused by:
^ incorrect wheel alignment.
^ brake drag.
^ uneven or incorrect tire inflation pressures.
^ damaged or worn tire construction.

The way in which a tire is constructed can produce lead. An example of this is placement of the radial belts. Off-center belts on a radial tire can cause the tire to develop a side force while rolling straight down the road. If one side of the tire is a little larger in diameter than the other, the tire will tend to roll to one side. This will develop a side force which can produce lead.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.