Wheel alignment refers to the angles at which your wheels contact the road. When it’s off, your car can pull to one side and your tires can wear unevenly. Frank’s Auto Repair does wheel alignments in our own alignment bay, on a Hunter HawkEye Elite alignment system.
When you need an alignment
Tires can wear unevenly for many reasons, and the most common reason is the alignment. If the alignment is out of specifications, I would recommend an alignment as well. But for ordinary wear, without any front-end issues, a tire rotation is all you need.
Have the alignment checked if you notice:
- your car consistently drifts or pulls to the left or right
- excessive wear on one edge of a tire
- different wear patterns between tires
- steering that feels different, or poor handling
Pulling can also come from uneven tire pressure, uneven tire wear, or worn steering and suspension components, so it doesn’t automatically mean the alignment is off. An inspection can determine whether the problem is related to your tires, alignment, steering, suspension, or another component.
Alignment or suspension?
Suspension problems and alignment problems can produce similar symptoms, which makes them easy to confuse. The alignment is the angles of the wheels, while the suspension consists of the physical components that support and control the vehicle.
Sometimes the two are connected. Worn or damaged suspension parts can prevent a vehicle from maintaining proper alignment, and wear in the tie rods, which transfer steering input to the wheels, can affect steering response and alignment. If an alignment problem repeatedly returns or your tires continue wearing unevenly, the steering and suspension may need to be inspected for underlying wear. A technician can inspect them before determining whether an alignment, a repair, or both are needed.
New Jersey drivers regularly encounter potholes and changing road surfaces. If you recently hit a severe pothole or curb, or your steering suddenly changes, don’t assume it’s simply an alignment issue: have the vehicle inspected to determine the actual cause. Our post on the signs your suspension needs repair explains more.
Help your tires last
Rotating your tires regularly, maintaining proper pressure and scheduling alignments all help extend tire life. Before long trips, get a full check-up, including a tire rotation and alignment.
To have your alignment checked, request an appointment.