One of the services you might not have on your mind too often is wheel alignment. At Young Automotive, we understand how that goes. But if you’re not getting your wheels aligned when you need them to be, you’re losing life on your tires and you’re putting more stress on your car’s suspension. And those are bigger repairs that you can actually avoid if you stick to a maintenance schedule that includes wheel alignment.
Wheel Alignments Get Overlooked
So many car owners tend to overlook wheel alignments, but they’re more important than you think. Your car’s owner’s manual should have some recommendations about wheel alignment, so it’s a good idea to check that out. When your wheels are properly aligned, that protects your tires and your suspension from damage. It also helps your car’s handling, making it much more enjoyable and easier to drive your car.
Causes of Misalignment
Believe it or not, there are a lot of factors that can affect wheel alignment. Hitting bumps, curbs, and speed bumps a little too hard or fast can knock the wheel just a bit out of line. If you get into an accident, even a small one, that can also affect your wheel alignment. Also, regular wear and tear that your suspension goes through impact how well your wheels remain aligned.
When You Need an Alignment
You might be surprised when it’s recommended that you get your wheels aligned. If you’re getting new tires or you’re replacing suspension parts, like your shocks, it’s a good idea to get your wheels aligned. After an accident you should get your alignment checked. If something doesn’t feel right, such as the car pulling while you drive, your alignment is likely off. And finally, if you can’t remember the last time you had your wheels aligned, you’re definitely overdue.
How Can You Tell You’re Overdue for an Alignment?
But what if you’re still not convinced? Are there definite signs you need an alignment? Besides feeling your car pulling in one direction, you might also experience vibration while you’re driving. This might feel stronger as you go faster. Take a look at your steering wheel. Is it crooked? This might be due to misaligned wheels. Finally, check your tire wear. If it’s uneven, you definitely need an alignment.
Young Automotive in Sturgeon Bay, WI can help you with all of your wheel alignment needs. Give us a call and we can get your wheels aligned in no time.
