Wheel alignments are a key part of automotive maintenance, and this service should be performed at regular intervals, just like your oil changes and tire rotations. Generally speaking, most automakers recommend this service every 20,000 - 30,000 miles. By aligning your car’s wheels with the appropriate machines, you can adjust your tires to point in the proper direction. In other words, wheel alignment services work to improve your vehicle’s steerability and safety, while extending the life of your tires.
Wheel alignment should be a part of routine maintenance because your wheels’ angles naturally drift over time. However, certain road conditions can abuse your car and shift its wheels out of alignment even sooner. Some examples include ramming into curbs, speeding over speed bumps, and flying over deep speed bumps. To tell whether you’re needed for wheel alignment, you should pay attention to how your car drives. If your steering wheel is crooked or the car simply can’t drive straight without veering to the side, then you need to have your wheels’ alignment checked.
Overall, wheel alignments will give you peace of mind and save you money over time. Here are some of the advantages of having regular wheel alignments:
- Even Tire Wear - Regular wheel alignments will promote even tire wear and prevent premature or uneven tire wear. Therefore, you won’t have to replace your tires as often.
- Enhance Fuel Economy - Poor wheel alignment may cause rolling resistance, making your motor have to work harder and consume more fuel.
- Smooth Driving - Proper wheel alignments will promote smoother driving by preventing unnecessary wheel vibrations.
- Increase Overall Safety - When your wheels point in the direction where you want them to go, you have ultimate control of your vehicle. This can minimize the risks of accidents and so forth.
If your vehicle is due for a wheel alignment or you’d like to have your wheel alignment checked, please call or visit the auto professionals at DRIVE AutoCare soon.