If your car “skids” sideways, veers when the steering wheel is in the straight-ahead position, or continues to go straight when the steering wheel is turned, you probably need to go to a body shop for a wheel alignment. This is a maintenance process that involves sizing the wheels correctly so that they are vertical and parallel to the ground and to each other. This ensures even tread wear and a safe ride. Keep in mind that a simple change of gear can lead to serious inconveniences such as tire wear, increased fuel consumption and others.
Proper wheel alignment provides a number of benefits:
Prevents uneven tire wear Improves vehicle stability Promotes vehicle and driver safety Improves vehicle handling Optimizes fuel economy Prevents premature wear and damage to other components
Off-road vehicle on a camber test bench in a workshop of a service station.
image source: 123rf.com
When should I align my wheels and balance my tires?
Whenever your vehicle has a scheduled inspection. After a crash or major impact when a wheel hits a deep pothole. When a suspension or steering component is replaced. When an imbalance occurs. When tires wear unevenly. At least once a year or every 20,000 km.
Signs your car needs a wheel alignment
- Steering wheel is not centered. Whenever driving on a straight, perfectly level street, the steering wheel should be centered. If not, that means it’s time to do the alignment. This will bring the steering wheel back to center and also improve overall handling.
- The car turns one way or the other. If you are riding on a perfectly flat road, straighten the handlebars straight ahead and let go. If the car “blows” in any direction, it’s time to check and fix the alignment.
- Uneven tire wear. Tire wear patterns help diagnose problems in the vehicle. So, with this wear as a guideline, a mechanical technician can assess whether it is due to tire pressure, suspension condition, or other issues.
Keep in mind that proper alignment greatly increases the life of your tires, so if they are showing uneven wear, you should take your vehicle to a service center and have it checked.
Wheel balancing workshop.
image source: 123rf.com
- Driving seems tiring. If your vehicle’s steering seems unstable while driving, or if you have to hold the steering wheel in place to stay on track, you may be experiencing wheel misalignment. You need to consider this issue as it can cause an accident and make every trip more stressful and tiring.
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Steering wheel does not return to center. After completing the turn, the steering wheel should automatically return to center, of course, you need to keep your hands on it to maintain control.
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Vibration. Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires will cause the steering wheel to constantly vibrate or spin left and right. It can even cause the whole car to shake while driving.
This is because two or more tires are pointing at each other, trying to steer the car in two different directions. You should also check the balance of the tires, which allows the wheel to spin in balance without transmitting vibration when spinning at high rpm.
Improper wheel alignment and tire balancing can create many drivability issues and premature tire wear, so it’s best to have your car inspected as soon as you notice any problems. This way you will avoid one of the mistakes that shorten the life of your car. You will find that after checking the complete suspension, centering and balancing, you will be pleasantly surprised at how your car handles.
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