Wheel Alignment FAQs: Is It Time for a Wheel Alignment?
Wheel Alignment FAQs: Is It Time for a Wheel Alignment?
Posted on April 12, 2020
If you're concerned about keeping your car running for a long time, then you've probably thought about the importance of routine maintenance. As a part of your regular maintenance, you need to think about getting a front-end alignment approximately every two to three years. Or you could just get a front-end alignment when you notice it is off a little bit. You may be wondering -- when does my car need a front-end alignment? Let's take a closer look at ways you can check your vehicle to see if it's in need of one.
Does My Car Need Front End Alignment?
There are several signs that will indicate your car is ready for a front-end alignment. They are as follows:
Tires Are Unevenly Worn
Your tires should be evenly worn on both sides. You can tell by checking the tread on them. If they look uneven, then it may be because the alignment is off.
Pulls To One Side
When you're driving, if your car tends to pull to one direction or another, then it's not perfectly aligned.
Steering Wheel Has A Vibration
If you feel the steering wheel shaking or vibrating a little while driving it may mean the alignment is ready to be aligned.
Steering Wheel is Off-CenterSome people don't pay attention to their steering wheel, but if you notice you're driving with it slightly crooked, then it's time for an alignment.
How To Check Car Alignment At Home
There are a few different ways you can check your car's front-end alignment at home on your own. Take your car for a test drive. Find a deserted road and let go of the wheel. Does it pull to the side or stay straight? That will be one way to tell.
Next, you can jack your vehicle up and draw a line around the circumference of your tire in the very center tread. Do that to both sides. Now measure how far apart each one is to the edge. Are they even or off a bit? If they're not very close, then you will need to get a front-end alignment.
Finally, your tires need to be vertically straight too. If the tires are leaning in at the top or bottom too much, then that can put it out of alignment too. The vertical angle is called the camber. If you measure the distance between the center of the tire to the camber, then you can tell if your alignment is off. If the numbers aren't the same, then you need a front-end alignment.
Next Steps
If you suspect that your car is in need of a front-end alignment, then it's best to take care of the issue as soon as you can. If you put it off, you may wear your tires out. Then you'll need not only an alignment but tires too. It's important to use expert service technicians to handle your alignment so that it's done properly. At Murray Strathmore, we are equipped to handle all your car's maintenance needs. Get in touch with us today.