Steer Clear: A Guide to Wheel Alignment Maintenance

Ever feel like your car is pulling to one side, even when you’re gripping the wheel straight? Maybe your steering wheel vibrates at certain speeds, or your tires seem to be wearing unevenly. These could all be signs of a car that’s out of alignment.

Think of your car’s wheels as four teammates. For them to perform at their best, they all need to be facing the same direction and working in unison. Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your wheels to ensure they make proper contact with the road. There are three main alignment angles:

• Camber: This is the tilt of the tires, seen from the front. Ideally, they should be slightly angled inward (positive camber) for stability, but never excessively so.
• Caster: This refers to the angle of the steering axis, as seen from the side. A slight positive caster provides better straight-line stability.
• Toe: This is the direction the tires are facing, relative to each other. Ideally, they should be perfectly straight (zero toe) to minimize rolling resistance.

Why is Wheel Alignment Important?

Proper wheel alignment is crucial for several reasons:

• Safety: A misaligned car can pull to one side, making it difficult to maintain control during emergencies.
• Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear is a common sign of misalignment, leading to premature replacement and increased costs.
• Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels can increase rolling resistance, which means your car has to work harder and burn more gas.
• Handling: A properly aligned car tracks straighter, corners better, and provides a smoother ride.

What Causes Wheel Alignment to Go Out?

• Hitting potholes or curbs: These impacts can jar the suspension components, throwing the alignment off.
• Normal wear and tear: Over time, suspension components can loosen or wear out, affecting alignment.
• Uneven tire pressure: Improper inflation can cause the tires to sit at different angles.
• Replacing suspension parts: Whenever you replace suspension components, an alignment check is recommended to ensure everything is set correctly.

How Often Should Get Your Vehicle Checked?

Generally, it’s recommended to get your wheel alignment checked every 6,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, you should also be on the lookout for warning signs that might necessitate an earlier check. These include:

• The car pulling to one side
• Uneven tire wear
• Vibrations in the steering wheel
• A feeling of looseness in the steering

Bob’s Auto Repair: Your Partners in Wheel Alignment

If you suspect your car is out of alignment, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a trusted mechanic. Here at Bob’s Auto Repair in Clearwater, our certified technicians have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and correct any alignment issues you might have. We use state-of-the-art technology to ensure your car is back on track, offering a smooth and safe ride .

Remember, proper wheel alignment maintenance is an investment in the safety, performance, and longevity of your car. By keeping your wheels aligned, you’ll save money on tires, gas, and repairs in the long run. So, steer clear of trouble and schedule a wheel alignment check today!