Drifting, the art of controlling a car's slide-through turns with skilful manoeuvres, has gained immense popularity in recent years. It has become a significant motorsport discipline, capturing the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. However, a common concern among drivers and car owners is whether drifting causes damage to the vehicle. In this blog post, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of whether drifting truly damages your car or not!
Common parts and pieces of a car that may be affected by drifting:
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Tyres
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Suspension and Steering Components
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Engine and Transmission
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Brakes and Cooling Systems
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Body and Exterior
Let’s look further at the effect of drifting on the above parts:
Tyres: The Essential Element
When it comes to drifting, the most significant impact is on your tyres. The act of sliding the car puts substantial stress on the tyres, causing increased wear and tear. Drifting involves intentional loss of traction, leading to accelerated tyre wear. To minimize the damage, it's crucial to use high-quality performance tyres and rotate them regularly to distribute the wear evenly. Regular inspections and proper tyre maintenance will help mitigate such issues.
Suspension and Steering Components
Drifting puts your car's suspension and steering components under additional stress. Repeated aggressive movements and high lateral forces can potentially lead to premature wear or failure of these parts. However, if your vehicle is in good condition and properly maintained, it should withstand the rigours of drifting without significant damage. Upgrading to high-performance aftermarket suspension components can enhance durability and provide better control.
Engine and Transmission
Contrary to popular belief, drifting doesn't necessarily cause immediate damage to your engine or transmission. However, if you push your car beyond its limits or neglect regular maintenance, the aggressive driving style in drifting can increase stress on these components. Ensuring proper cooling system function, using high-quality lubricants, and adhering to maintenance schedules will help minimize the risk of damage and extend the lifespan of your engine and transmission.
Brakes and Cooling Systems
Drifting majorly relies on controlled braking techniques, which generate significant heat in your brake system. Excessive and prolonged heat may result in brake failure. To combat this, upgrading to performance brake pads and discs, and investing in a robust cooling system is essential. Timely inspections and maintaining your braking system will help prevent potential issues and ensure optimum performance.
Body and Exterior
Drifting often involves getting close to obstacles, increasing the risk of damage to your car's body and exterior. Scratches, scuffs, and dents are the most common occurrences when pushing the limits of your car's capabilities. While these may not affect the vehicle's functionality, they can impact its overall aesthetic appeal. Consider investing in body protection gears like skid plates and bumpers to minimize the risk of damage during drift sessions.
Can drifting damage be minimized?
Drifting, when done responsibly and with proper consideration for your car's maintenance, does not necessarily cause significant damage. By using high-quality tyres and adhering to regular maintenance schedules, you can enjoy the thrill of drifting while minimizing the potential negative effects on your car. Ultimately, responsible driving and proper care are key to preserving your car's longevity and performance.
If you’re into drifting and looking for some good deals on your drift tyre purchase, drop us a message and our folks at Tire Streets can hook you up with the best deals.
Don’t forget to check out our blog for some quick reads on making the best out of your tyres.