Updated: May 15, 2022 Show The wheel alignment should be done if you feel that your vehicle pulls to one side, or the steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, or your tires show uneven wear. It's also a good idea to have the alignment checked if you hit a curb or a large pothole. The wheel alignment is the process of checking and adjusting the angles of the wheels relative to each other and to the car body or frame. Over time, wheel angles change as a result of sagging of the springs and wearing of rubber bushings and other parts in the steering and suspension. As you drive over potholes and speed bumps, some parts of the suspension may slightly deform and this can also change the wheel angles. Checking the wheel alignment will show if the wheel angles are within specifications for your vehicle. What are the benefits of the correct wheel alignment? Your tires as well as suspension and steering components will last longer and your vehicle will handle better. You might notice that after the wheel alignment, the car holds the road better and feels more stable. This will be even more noticeable if you have a sporty car with wider tires. Symptoms of incorrect wheel alignment:
Wheel alignment after an impact to the wheel: We often see parts of the suspension or steering bent after an impact to the wheel, for example, when the car slid into the curb. Check out this photo we took recently of a bent tie rod after the vehicle hit the curb. Sometimes it's easy to see what is damaged but other times only the wheel alignment can show that some of the angles are out of specs. Based on the measurements your mechanic will know what parts are bent. Once the repair is completed, the alignment must be checked again to make sure that it's now within specifications. How is the wheel alignment done?Before doing the wheel alignment, the mechanic should test drive the vehicle, adjust the tire pressure, as well as check the ride height and basic suspension and steering components such as springs, struts, ball joints and tie rod ends. if any of the steering or suspension components (e.g., tie rod ends, control arms) are bad it should be replaced before doing the wheel alignment. Optical wheel target. To perform the wheel alignment, the vehicle is placed on an alignment rack (in the photo above). Special devices called optical wheel targets (in the photo) are attached to each wheel. After the alignment is done,
you will get a printout showing the wheel angles before and after the alignment. See the sample wheel alignment report. The four-wheel alignment is always the best option, as the two-wheel alignment involves adjustment of only two front tires. Is it necessary to check the wheel alignment once a year? No, if your vehicle shows no symptoms of incorrect alignment, it's not necessary. From our experience, if you re-check the wheel alignment in an average car after a year of normal driving, most of the time it will still be within specs. However, if you hit a large pothole, the alignment will likely be off. That said, many motorists do check the wheel alignment every year as a peace of mind measure. Does the wheel alignment need to be done when installing new tires? Your shop may recommend it as a way to make your new tires last longer, but it's not necessary. How much does it cost to do the wheel alignment? The prices vary between $90 and $180 depending on the vehicle. Your shop may charge you more if some of the adjustments are badly rusted or seized. For better results, look for a repair shop that has a newer, more advanced wheel alignment rack. On average, the wheel alignment takes from 40 minutes to an hour. Is it worth getting 4 wheel alignment?Are Wheel Alignments Necessary? An alignment improves vehicle safety by keeping the right amount of the tire in contact with the road and preventing your vehicle from pulling to the left or right. A properly aligned vehicle has a smoother ride and optimal gas mileage. Keeping the wheels aligned also extends tire life.
How do I know if my car needs a 2 or 4 wheel alignment?DOES MY CAR NEED A WHEEL ALIGNMENT?. Your Car Pulls To The Left or Right. One of the easiest signs to identify is when your car pulls to a particular side when driving. ... . Your Steering Wheel is Off Center. ... . Car or Steering Wheel Shaking. ... . Abnormally Quick Tire Wear.. What is included in a 4 wheel alignment?A 4-wheel alignment refers to adjusting all four wheels, which is typically required on all-wheel-drive models, with independent suspensions. This may include a front toe and caster adjustment, just like the front end alignment, while the rear wheels receive a toe and camber adjustment.
Do I need an alignment after replacing tires?You Get New Tires:
We recommend an alignment after the installation of new tires. This helps you get the most life from your new tires. Wheel alignment checks are always advised after a significant impact or uneven tire wear is detected.
|