Is it Time for a Wheel Alignment?
While the wheels on the wheels on the bus go round and round, it only happens efficiently when your wheels are properly aligned. And this explains the importance of having wheel alignments. Contrary to popular belief, wheel alignment has almost nothing to do with directly adjusting your tires or wheels. Instead, it's all about adjusting the suspension and restoring it to the manufacturer's specifications.
Proper wheel alignment is paramount to ensuring your tires impact the road at the right angle. Why? Because the ability of your vehicle to operate properly is a meticulous balancing act that requires a unique combination of acceleration, power, braking, and steering. Simply put, steering mechanisms, tires, shock absorbers, and springs must all work together with precise timing for continued reliable service. And if your vehicle is out of alignment, everything could be thrown out of wack.
Failure to have proper wheel alignment can lead to expedited tire wear and poor handling. Fortunately, most vehicles will offer several signs and indicators that the wheels need to be realigned. Let's take a closer look at how you know it's time for wheel alignment.
The Car Pulls to the Right or Left
Without a doubt, one of the easiest and most telling signs you need wheel alignment is when your vehicle pulls to one side or the other while you're driving. In either case, it's completely normal for your vehicle to pull slightly to the right or left. However, if you feel as if you are fighting with your vehicle or are having to constantly steer to keep the wheel straight, it's most likely due to an alignment problem.
The Steering Wheel Is Off Center
When at rest, your steering wheel and logo are engineered to be dead center. However, if you notice that your steering wheel and logo are crooked, you could require wheel alignment. As such, you should always pay attention to the position of your logo, especially when you're driving straight down the road.
The Steering Wheel or Car Shakes
As you accelerate, your steering wheel and/or vehicle shouldn't vibrate to the point that you feel it in your hand. If your vehicle shakes when you're driving, it could point to a number of different issues. And one of those issues may be bad wheel alignment. Because this issue may be indicative of several problems, it's imperative to have your vehicle inspected by a trained ASE-Certified technician.
Tires Wear Quicker and/or Abnormally
If your tires wear quickly or abnormally, it's an indicator that something may be wrong, and usually, the "something" is the suspension. As long as you have your tires rotated as suggested by the manufacturer, they should wear evenly on the outside and inside. Fortunately, you can detect abnormal wear by simply looking at your tires. If you do notice any abnormal wear or other causes of concern, it's best to have your vehicle examined by an experienced mechanic.
A Loose Steering Wheel Could Indicate Alignment Problems
Does your steering wheel feel a little loose? Or do you turn the wheel and experience minimal tire movement? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it's most likely caused by some type of tire alignment issue. It could also be linked to a problem with your power steering. In either case, you should have your vehicle inspected by the experts at Glockner Toyota for a professional diagnosis.
Squealing Tires Could Point to Alignment Problems
With any tire alignment, three different angles can be adjusted: the camber, toe, and caster. In the event your toe or camber angles are out of alignment, it can lead to adverse friction. This can cause an array of squealing sounds and other strange noises emanating from your wheels.
Why Have a Wheel Alignment at Glockner Toyota?
Failure to have wheel alignment can cause more expensive and more serious issues with your vehicle. Here are some of the top reasons you should wheel alignment as needed.
- Improve the handling of your vehicle.
- Ensure you satisfy the warranty requirements.
- Prolong the life of your tires.
- Reduced wear and tear on your steering column.
- Improve your miles per gallon.
Contact Glockner Toyota Today for Wheel Alignment Services
When it comes to your wheel alignment, it's imperative to get it right! Why? Because you simply have too much riding around on your wheels and the ability to maneuver. Fortunately, the mechanic at Glockner Toyota can help. We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and highly-trained ASE-Certified mechanics to perform wheel alignments and every other automotive repair.
Contact Glockner Toyota today to schedule an inspection and wheel alignment services.
