You need your car’s wheels to be pointing straight and meet the road at the proper angle. And, you need your tires centered in the wheel wells.
Otherwise, without proper wheel alignment, you could encounter many problems while you’re driving.
Here are four reasons you need to keep your car’s wheels aligned.
Reason #1. You Can Extend The Lifespan Of Your Tires.
Your tires will wear unevenly if you’re driving a car out of alignment. This can reduce the lifespan of your tires. It also means you’ll need to replace your tires sooner.
Reason #2. You Can Extend The Lifespan Of Your Suspension and Steering Systems.
Poor alignment puts stress on your suspension and steering systems. It can cause suspension and steering system parts to wear unevenly, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Reason #3. You Can Lower Your Fuel Costs.
There is a direct correlation between wheel alignment and fuel costs. A properly aligned car tends to get better fuel mileage than one that’s misaligned. This is because misaligned wheels won’t work together correctly. In this instance, your engine will need to work harder to move your car forward, which can lower your fuel efficiency.
Reason #4. You Can Enjoy A Smooth And Safe Driving Experience.
If your wheels are out of alignment, your car can pull to the left or right. This can make it difficult to drive, since you may need to constantly adjust to compensate. It can also result in a bumpy ride and take your attention away from driving safely.
Is Wheel Alignment Necessary?
Wheel alignment is necessary at least once or twice annually. Your car’s tires are prone to wear and tear, and if you frequently drive on rough roads, they can wear down quickly. But, if you get your wheels aligned periodically, you can address tire issues before they lead to costly repairs. Plus, when your wheels are properly aligned, you can avoid tire problems that otherwise lead to accidents.
How To Tell If Your Wheels Are Misaligned
Common signs your car is out of alignment include:
- There is uneven wear on your tires.
- Your steering wheel is off-center.
- Your steering wheel often shakes and/or vibrates.
- Your car frequently pulls to the left or right.
If you notice any of the aforementioned issues, bring your car to a certified auto mechanic. Next, the mechanic can inspect your wheels and align them properly.
What To Expect During A Wheel Alignment
A wheel alignment is generally considered a “drop-in” service. Auto mechanics can usually align a car’s wheels in about an hour. Upon completion, you can drive your car home safely.
There may be times when a mechanic recommends you replace one or more tires as part of an alignment. During an alignment, the mechanic can evaluate the condition of your tires and assess your tire pressure. If any tires need to be replaced, the mechanic should be able to perform the work, followed by your alignment.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait To Get Your Car’s Wheels Aligned
If your car shows any signs that its wheels are out of alignment or if you’re unsure of how long it’s been since your last alignment, bring your vehicle to a mechanic.
With a professional opinion, you can get the help you need to align your wheels and drive safely again.
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