Wheel alignment is one of those car maintenance tasks you need to keep up with. Warranties for your car or your tires may be voided if you don't keep your wheels in alignment. If you take your car to the shop according to the schedule the manufacturer recommends, the mechanic will automatically check the alignment and make sure it is maintained. If you have an older car that you only have serviced when something goes wrong, you'll want to watch for signs of trouble so your tires don't wear unevenly due to alignment issues. Here are a few things to know about wheel alignment.
Signs The Tires Are Out Of Alignment
When the tires of your car are out of alignment, you can tell because of the way your car handles. It will probably pull to one side as you drive. The sensation may be strong or very subtle. If you're not sure whether you're feeling a pull, then take your hand off the steering wheel for a second while the car is going straight down the road. If the car drifts to one side, the wheels are probably out of alignment. Other signs include a steering wheel that is off center, tires that have uneven wear, and feeling a vibration when you're driving on the highway.
Why Getting The Tires Aligned Is Important
If the tires on your car are out of alignment, then the tread will wear out unevenly. This leads to a host of problems, such as low gas mileage, shortened tire lifespan, and poor handling of the car. The vibration caused by being out of alignment may cause further damage to other components of your car if it is allowed to go on for a long time. Additionally, if the car is pulling, it can be more difficult to drive and maneuver, especially ijf you're driving for a long time and are fatigued. Uneven tires affect braking time and how well your car handles in the rain. Driving with the tires out of alignment isn't good for your car, and it can pose a safety hazard to you as you drive.
How An Alignment Is Done
A tire alignment is often done at the same time that you have other tire work done. Whether you have other work done at the same time or you just get an alignment, it is a fairly simple process. The mechanic elevates your car and attaches the wheels to a computer. The computer calculates the precise position needed to bring the tires into alignment. The tires are then positioned so they are parallel with each other and perpendicular to the ground. When the tires are squared in this manner, the weight of the car is properly distributed, and the car handles like it should.
Ideally, you won't wait until your car develops problems before having the wheels aligned. Regular service will ensure they stay in alignment, but if it's been a long time since you've taken your car to a mechanic, stay alert for changes in the way your car handles. Any pulling or vibration could signal a problem with the wheels that needs to be addressed before further damage is done to your car. For more information on wheel alignment, contact a company like D Wells Automotive Service.
