Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned improves the performance and longevity of your tires. Wheels are frequently misaligned due to hitting potholes, bumps, curbs, driving on uneven surfaces, and general wear and tear. Therefore, keeping your wheels aligned accurately is critical to maintaining quality and performance.
The angle of your wheels in relation to your vehicle’s body is referred to as wheel alignment. Wheel alignment is corrected by adjusting the suspension of the vehicle.
Using cutting-edge technology, Superior Tire & Auto’s specialists can precisely determine and apply how much adjustment is required. We recommend that you have your wheel alignment checked at least every 10,000 kilometers and whenever you notice a change in the driving or handling of your vehicle.
Accurate wheel alignment improves driving stability, tire life, and overall vehicle handling performance to keep your wheels properly aligned to avoid unnecessary wear on your tires, steering, suspension, and brakes.
A wheel alignment should take about an hour if your vehicle is in good overall condition. However, the service may take longer if your steering bush, track rod, or suspension system is in poor condition.
Aside from having your vehicle’s wheels checked regularly, look for the following signs that your steering wheel may need to be realigned:
When you take your hands off the steering wheel, your vehicle should be able to drive straight. However, if your car pulls or drifts to one side when driving on a straight road, you may have a problem with your alignment.
The frequency with which it swerves to one side determines the severity of the misalignment. If you don’t address the problem immediately, it will be more difficult to control your car and keep it in a straight line. As soon as you notice this problem, have a mechanic realign your vehicle.
Another simple way to check for a bad wheel alignment is to watch the position of your steering wheel while driving on a straight and even road. While driving, keep your steering wheel straight or in the center.
For a guide, look at the logo on the steering wheel. If it leans slightly off-center in any direction, it indicates that your steering wheel is uneven and needs to be realigned. Addressing this issue can help you regain control of your steering wheel while driving.
Loose steering, also known as “free play,” occurs when you notice your steering goes a little further than intended as you turn. A loose steering wheel is extremely dangerous and should be replaced immediately.
While driving, your steering wheel should not vibrate. If it does, you’re probably driving a vehicle with poor alignment or unbalanced tires. Car vibrations can, however, be caused by issues other than tire alignment. To be certain, have a mechanic inspect your vehicle to prevent further damage.
If you hear a squealing sound from your tires as you turn or accelerate, your wheels may be misaligned, causing your tires to wear out unevenly.
While worn brake pads may also cause squealing, the point is that squealing is not normal and indicates that your vehicle is experiencing problems. Take your vehicle for an inspection to determine the problem and avoid potential accidents.
Examining the tread wear on your tires can help you determine if your wheels are properly aligned. If you notice that one of your tires is wearing out faster than the others, this could indicate a problem with your alignment. Use a tread depth meter to accurately measure your tires’ tread depth.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, make an appointment right away—proper wheel alignment improves the overall performance of your vehicle. Maintaining proper wheel alignment is an important aspect of car ownership.
Most modern vehicles, including cars, small SUV’s, crossovers, and vans, necessitate a four-wheel alignment, as do all-wheel-drive models. The general rule of thumb is to align all four tires if possible.
Maintaining wheel alignment is critical for driving safety. It can also help you save money on future expenses caused by poor tire alignment. Here are some pointers for maintaining proper wheel alignment:
If you are looking for a reliable and experienced auto repair shop for your wheel alignment needs, Superior Tire & Auto is a great choice. Our team of skilled technicians is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment to quickly identify and repair any alignment issues your vehicle may have.
With our commitment to providing excellent customer service, transparent pricing, and fast and efficient service, you can trust Superior Tire & Auto for all your vehicle repair and maintenance needs.
Operating since 1942 Superior Tire & Auto treats customers, employees, suppliers and the community with honesty, dignity and respect while providing quality products, value pricing and superior customer service.