Summary:
Wheel alignment is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance. It ensures the steering and suspension are adjusted so the wheels align with the manufacturer’s specifications. Over time, driving over bumps and potholes can cause misalignment, which may lead to the vehicle pulling to one side. Experts recommend regular realignment every nine months to a year for optimal performance.
Misalignment can result in uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of tire blowouts, especially when the inner tread wears down faster than the outer tread. In some cases, severe misalignment could signal suspension damage. If one replaces suspension parts like struts or control arms, a wheel alignment is necessary to restore proper wheel angles.
The three key elements of alignment are camber (tilt along the horizontal axis), caster (angle of the steering axis), and toe (inward or outward tilt along a vertical axis). Symptoms of poor alignment include the car pulling to one side, uneven or rapid tire wear, squealing tires, unresponsive steering, vibration, and poor fuel economy.
Modern alignment shops use advanced computer equipment to measure and adjust the vehicle’s alignment. This is based on its specific make and model. A typical alignment process takes 60-90 minutes. However, achieving perfect alignment in older cars can be challenging due to natural wear and manufacturer tolerances.
The Car Magazine
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