various embodiments relate to methods , systems , devices , and non - transitory media for increasing repeatability and reliability of tire testing trials including one or more of the following : capturing position data from a position sensor , wherein the capture of the position data is indicative of alignment with the desired testing area along the first axis ; determining whether the position data indicates that the testing wheel is aligned with the desired testing area along a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis , and when the position data indicates that the testing wheel is aligned with the desired testing area along a second axis , effecting initiation of a testing event .