WHEEL ALIGNMENT
What is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your wheels to match the
manufacturer's specifications. This ensures optimal contact between the tyres and the road, leading to
several benefits:
- Increased Wheel Lifespan: Proper alignment prevents uneven wear on your
tyres, extending their life.
- Improved Handling and Stability: Correctly aligned tyres provide better
control and responsiveness,
especially during turns and on uneven roads.
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Reduced rolling resistance from properly
aligned tyres translates to
better fuel economy.
- Promotes Safety: Proper alignment ensures your vehicle tracks straight
and reduces vibrations,
making driving safer.
Signs You Need Wheel Alignment
There are several telltale signs that your car might need an alignment:
- Vehicle pulling to one side: If your car consistently drifts to the
left or right while driving straight, misaligned tyres are a likely culprit.
- Off-centre steering wheel: Even when driving straight, the steering
wheel may be noticeably crooked, indicating alignment issues.
- Uneven Wheel wear: Look for irregular tread wear patterns on your
tyres, such as excessive wear on the inner or outer edges.
- Steering wheel vibration: At higher speeds, you might experience a
vibration in the steering wheel due to unbalanced or misaligned tyres.
Types of Wheel Alignment Angles
During a Wheel alignment, technicians adjust three main angles:
- Camber: This is the inward or outward tilt of the top of the Wheel.
- Toe: This refers to whether the fronts of the tyres are pointed in
(toe-in) or out (toe-out) compared to the rears.
- Caster: This is the angle of the steering axis in relation to the
vertical plane of the Wheel.
How Often Should You Get Wheel Alignment?
Manufacturers typically recommend getting a Wheel alignment every 5,000 to 10,000 miles
or once a year. However, several factors can necessitate more frequent alignments:
- Hitting potholes or curbs
- Experiencing any of the signs mentioned above
- Regular off-road driving