We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Automotive

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Car Tilt Test?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 23, 2024
Views: 8,399
Share

A tilt test is a test for automotive safety used to make sure a car's center of gravity is safe enough for competition or use, and to check for fuel leaks. This testing is most commonly used for cars raced at events or displayed in experimental vehicle competitions, although major car manufacturers can also use tilt testing during the research and development phase while working on new models and designs. The test involves driving or rolling the vehicle onto a platform, strapping it down, and then tilting the platform to see how the car performs.

While being driven, it is anticipated that cars will tilt going around curves because of the way they are banked. If the car's fuel or other fluid systems leak, these can become a problem when the car is tilted and may expose the driver to unreasonable risk. If the center of gravity is wrong, the car may be prone to tipping over while cornering, a potentially very dangerous situation when a car is moving at high speeds. The tilt test is used to make sure a car meets basic performance standards.

One important phase of the tilt test happens when the car is tilted to around 30 degrees, where the fuel system will be checked for leaks. An inspector will evaluate the car, and may check for leaks and signs of strain with systems other than the fuel system. The car is then tilted to 60 degrees. If at least three tires remain in contact with the platform, it meets the standard for center of gravity. If the car starts to tip or only two tires remain in contact, it will fail the tilt test.

For competitions, the tilt test may be performed with the driver in the seat, strapped in and wearing all applicable safety gear. Competition vehicles for racing are engineered to function optimally at very precise weights. Tilt testing without the driver might result in skewed results. Drivers are monitored carefully while their vehicles are tilted and if the driver appears to be in danger, the test will be stopped. The car will also be disqualified on the grounds that failing the tilt test would make it unsafe to drive on the course.

Car manufacturers, as well as designers of cars for competition, can have a tilt table in their research and development facilities for testing cars as they are developed. This allows them to check on safety periodically, making adjustments as needed before the pressure of an official inspection is on. This is one among a large group of safety tests used to determine a car's fitness for driving and competition.

Share
WikiMotors is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WikiMotors researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wikimotors.org/what-is-a-car-tilt-test.htm
Copy this link
WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WikiMotors, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.