What is Wheel Alignment?
Most people are aware that their car needs an oil change every few months and a tune-up every year or so, but many don’t know about the importance of wheel alignment. Wheel alignment is the process of making sure your car’s wheels are pointing in the right direction and at the correct angle. This may seem like a small thing, but it can have a big impact on your car’s performance.
If your wheels are out of alignment, it can cause your car to pull to one side or the other when you’re driving. This can be dangerous, as it makes it more difficult to control your car. It can also lead to uneven tire wear, as well as decreased fuel efficiency. In some cases, wheel alignment problems can even cause your steering wheel to shake.
Luckily, wheel alignment is something that can be easily fixed by a qualified mechanic. All they need to do is adjust the angles of your wheels so that they’re pointing in the right direction. This process is relatively quick and easy, and it’s something that should be done on a regular basis to keep your car running smoothly.
Why is Wheel Alignment Important?
Wheel alignment is crucial for ensuring your vehicle handles correctly and performs at its best. Misaligned wheels can cause a number of problems, including:
- Increased tire wear
- Poor handling
- Reduced fuel efficiency
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to get your vehicle’s wheels aligned as soon as possible. A professional mechanic can check your wheel alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
Common Signs of Poor Wheel Alignment
If you notice any of the following signs, your vehicle may need a wheel alignment:
1. Uneven or rapid tire wear.
2. Your vehicle pulling to one side.
3. Your steering wheel is off center when driving straight.
4. Your car vibrates when driving at high speeds.
How to Check Your Wheel Alignment
Your car’s wheel alignment is important for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride. There are a few things you can do to check your wheel alignment at home, and we’ll go over those in this article.
If you notice your car pulling to one side while driving, or if your steering wheel is off center, these could be signs that your wheel alignment is out of balance. You can also check for uneven tire wear, which can indicate that your wheels are not aligned correctly.
To check your wheel alignment at home, you’ll need a level surface to work on and a tape measure. First, measure the distance from the ground to the center of each tire’s axle. Then, measure the distance between each tire’s sidewall and the ground. These two measurements should be equal if your wheels are properly aligned.
If you find that your wheels are not properly aligned, you can adjust them yourself or take your car to a professional mechanic or service center to have it done. Having proper wheel alignment is important for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride.
Benefits of Regular Wheel Alignments
It’s important to keep your vehicle’s wheels in alignment. Regular wheel alignments will help improve your gas mileage, prolong tire life, and make your ride more comfortable.
If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side when you drive, or if your steering wheel is off center, it’s time for a wheel alignment. Wheels that are out of alignment can cause premature tire wear and may even lead to a blowout.
Improperly aligned wheels can also adversely affect your gas mileage. When your wheels are properly aligned, your car will track straight and true down the road, resulting in less fuel consumption.
In addition to saving money on gas, keeping your wheels in alignment will also help prolong the life of your tires. Tires that are out of alignment will wear unevenly, which will shorten their lifespan. Regular wheel alignments will help ensure that your tires wear evenly and last as long as possible.
Driving with properly aligned wheels simply feels better. You’ll enjoy a smoother ride and improved handling when your wheels are correctly aligned.
How Often Should You Get Your Wheels Aligned?
Most carmakers recommend an alignment check twice a year or every 10,000 km. However, keep an eye out for signs that your car might need an alignment sooner. These can include uneven tire wear, the steering wheel pulling to one side when driving on a straight road, and unusual vibrations in the steering wheel, among others. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to get your car aligned as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your tires and suspension.
Conclusion
So, now you know why wheel alignment matters and how it affects your vehicle. Regularly checking your car’s alignment is essential to ensure its performance and safety. It will also help extend the life of your tires and save you money in the long run by preventing premature tire wear. Keep an eye out for unusual steering behavior or uneven tire wear as this may be an indication that a wheel alignment service is needed.
FAQ
What causes a wheel alignment to go out?
There are a number of things that can cause a wheel alignment to go out, including:
- Hitting potholes or curbs
- Driving over rough roads
- Collisions
- Worn suspension components
How is wheel alignment done?
Wheel alignment is done using a specialized machine that measures the angles of your wheels. The technician will then make adjustments to the wheels as needed to bring them back into alignment.
Is wheel alignment worth it?
Yes, wheel alignment is worth it. A properly aligned vehicle will handle better, save you money on tires, and improve your safety.
How much does wheel alignment cost?
The cost of wheel alignment varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the location of the repair shop. However, it typically costs between $50 and $150. For details click here
Do you need a wheel alignment with new tyres?
Yes, it is recommended to get a wheel alignment when you install new tires. This is because the new tires may have different characteristics than your old tires, and this can throw off the alignment of your car. A wheel alignment will ensure that your new tires wear evenly and that your car handles safely.