Most of the time, drivers don’t put “car alignment” at the top of their car maintenance list. Many of us know when to take care of the basics, such as tune-ups, oil changes, and fluid inspects, and battery replacement. Though, many leave out one of the most vital parts of safe driving—your tires. Proper car alignment is compulsory if you want your vehicle to handle well, extend the life of your tires, and drive as safe as possible on the road.
Just what exactly is wheel alignment you ask? Put simply, a wheel alignment service makes sure the wheels are similar to each other and perpendicular to the road. Although regular tire rotations help minimize wear and tear, it doesn’t make up for the wear caused by wheels that aren’t angled according to factory specifications.
But how do you know how often should wheel alignment be done? Make it a practice to have your car alignment inspected each time you visit your auto repair shop for other types of maintenance. Your auto mechanic can then identify any potential issues and stop them from becoming a costly repair. The longer you delay to address small problems, the more they can end up costing you in the long-run.
Waiting until a tire blows out at the side of the road can lead to expensive repairs, tow service, and even an accident. By recognizing the symptoms of improper car alignment, drivers can reduce their risk of expensive repair bills or even an accident. Here are signs of misalignment to look out for:
- The car becomes off-center, making it more difficult to steer.
- Vibrating for no apparent reason to the side when driving.
- Tires wear unevenly, making them ineffective for safe driving.
- Added stress on the suspension system, risking damage to suspension components, and an expensive repair.
- An adverse effect on braking, compromising safety on the road.
- Filling up with fuel more often due to “tire drag” from misaligned wheels.
Conscientious drivers will notice the signs of misalignment and have it corrected as soon as possible. Also, by driving carefully, drivers are more likely to avoid incidents that could cause misalignment issues in the first place, enabling them to benefit from greater safety on the road.
Need to know more about how often should wheel alignment be done? Consult our ASE Certified technicians at Proshop Automotive for more information about our car alignment services and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Colton, CA, and the surrounding areas.
