5 Signs You Need A Wheel Alignment

We all want our vehicles to stand the test of time. And proper wheel alignment not only improves vehicle performance; it keeps the drive safe by extending the life of the tires. Wheel alignment is a maintenance service that should be prioritized because misalignment can occur with typical day to day driving. How do you know when it’s time for a four-wheel alignment or front-end alignment? The key is to pay attention to your vehicle and watch out for any warning signs. There are several common symptoms: it’s time for an alignment service, below are 5 to look out for.

The Tires are Wearing Unevenly

When wheels are misaligned, the tires will display uneven tread wear. This is a noticeable sign if you visually inspect your tires. Every so often, check treadwear by measuring the tread depth in a few areas of each tire. Aligned wheels properly will wear at the same rate. If there is a discrepancy, there may be a wheel alignment issue.

Unnatural Drifting or Pulling to One Side

One of the most obvious signs that there’s an alignment problem is if your vehicle is pulling to one side of the road while driving. You can test this by driving on a straight and flat highway and briefly let go of the steering wheel. You shouldn’t have to steer the vehicle to keep it moving straight constantly. A car pulling right or left is a classic symptom that the wheels aren’t aligned.

The Steering Wheel is Vibrating.

A steering wheel that vibrates while driving can indicate that the wheels are out of alignment. A vibrating steering wheel can occur after hitting a pothole or a curb. A noticeable vibration may only be a precursor to a bigger, costlier problem.

The Steering Wheel is Off-center.

Have you noticed your steering wheel sitting at an odd angle? A crooked steering wheel should be inspected. This can be due to misalignment, but in some cases can be due to a recent front-end alignment. Your vehicle may need a four-wheel alignment to correct this.

A Loose Steering Wheel.

The steering wheel should never feel loose or sloppy. A loose steering wheel can drastically affect its response time, causing a dangerous drive. If you need to apply more muscle into holding your steering wheel, it may be time to seek professional advice.

Wheel alignment service in Alpharetta, GA.

Proper wheel alignment is essential, and not something to take lightly. When serviced consistently, you optimize vehicle performance and avoid expensive future repair bills. If you notice any of the above signs and are worried about your car’s alignment or your vehicle’s safety, don't hesitate to reach out to the automotive experts at Import Auto Repair.