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Uneven tread wear, steering wheel vibration, or car drifting to one side? These signs point to a potential wheel alignment issue, a critical factor for your vehicle’s safety, performance, and the lifespan of your tires. Wheel alignment is important for your safety, performance, and tire longevity.
This guide delves into the intricacies of wheel alignment, spotlighting its undeniable benefits. Join us as we explore the essentials of ensuring your ride is perfectly aligned for the road ahead.
Below, we dive into what a wheel alignment is and its benefits.
Section 1: WHAT IS A WHEEL ALIGNMENT?
According to our friends at Bridgestone, “Alignment refers to an adjustment of a vehicle’s suspension – the system that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It is not an adjustment of the tires or wheels themselves. The key to proper alignment is adjusting the angles of the tires which affects how they make contact with the road.”
The angles adjusted are referred to as the camber, toe, and caster. Each of these describes a different angle in which the suspension can be changed to improve/impair the safety, performance, and tire longevity.
Camber
This is the inward or outward angle of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle.
Too much inward or outward tilt, also known as negative and positive camber, respectively, indicates improper alignment and will need to be adjusted.
Worn bearings, ball joints, and other wheel-suspension parts may contribute to camber misalignment.
As mentioned above, a negative or positive camber can lead to suspension problems and decreased handling of the vehicle.
When facing this issue, your tires tend to wear out quicker on the edges. This will reduce the life of your tire drastically and is best addressed with a wheel alignment.
Caster
Caster alignment plays a crucial role in enhancing steering precision, vehicle stability, and the ease of cornering.
It is defined by the tilt of the steering axis as observed from the side of your vehicle.
A positive caster occurs when the steering axis inclines towards the driver, promoting better handling and stability at high speeds.
Conversely, a negative caster is when the steering axis leans towards the front of the vehicle, which may affect steering responsiveness.
Proper caster alignment is essential for balanced driving dynamics.
Toe
Wheel alignment, specifically toe alignment, involves the direction your tires face—either turning inward or outward—when observed from a top-down perspective.
To simplify, imagine observing your own feet from above. If you pivot them inward towards your body’s center, this mimics what’s known as a toe-in alignment for your vehicle.
Conversely, angling your feet outward represents a toe-out alignment.
Each of these alignments in your vehicle indicates a need for adjustment to ensure optimal performance and safety on the road.
Section 2: Do I need a Wheel Alignment?
Your tires are wearing out unevenly, your vehicle is pulling to the right or left when you drive, your steering wheel is off-center, and/or your vehicle is vibrating are all signs that your wheels need an alignment.
Section 3: Benefits of Proper Wheel Alignment
The main benefits to a proper wheel alignment include, but are not limited to:
- Improved vehicle handling and stability, leading to safer driving experiences
- Enhanced tire longevity and reduced risk of premature tire wear.
- Optimization of fuel efficiency by minimizing rolling resistance.
- Cost savings by preventing the need for premature tire replacements and other repairs.
Section 4: How Wheel Alignment Works
At Rollos Tires and Wheels, we assess the issue the customer may be facing and provide the corresponding solution.
Wheel alignment diagnostics are provided for FREE at Rollos Tires and Wheels.
After receiving your FREE wheel diagnostic, we’ll explain any of the issues you might be facing and offer the proper solution.
Section 5: When to Get Your Wheels Aligned
Wheel Alignments should be checked every 6,000 to 10,000 miles or as indicated by vehicle manufacturer recommendations.
The easiest way to remember is that every time you change your oil, have your alignment checked.
Furthermore, additional instances when wheel alignment may be necessary are after hitting potholes, curb impacts, or suspension repairs.
Conclusion:
Remember to check your wheel alignment for vehicle safety, performance, and tire longevity.
Visit us at Rollos Tires and Wheels for a FREE wheel alignment check!
