Keeping your car in top condition is essential for a smooth and safe driving experience. One of the most overlooked aspects of vehicle maintenance is wheel alignment. Many drivers focus on oil changes, tyre replacements, and brake checks but forget that wheel alignment plays a huge role in vehicle performance, tyre longevity, and fuel efficiency.
So, how often should you check your wheel alignment?
What Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment refers to the angle and direction of your car’s wheels. When properly aligned, your wheels are positioned at the correct angles according to your car manufacturer’s specifications. If the alignment is off, your tyres may wear out unevenly, your steering may become unstable, and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency can suffer.
Proper wheel alignment ensures that:
- Your tyres wear evenly
- Your car drives straight without pulling to one side
- Your steering remains responsive
- Your fuel efficiency improves
How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?
The general rule of thumb is to get your wheel alignment checked every 6,000 to 10,000 miles or once a year. However, this varies based on your driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle type. Here are some factors that may require more frequent alignments:
1. Driving on Rough Roads
If you regularly drive on bumpy, uneven, or pothole-filled roads, your wheel alignment can be thrown off much sooner. Off-road driving or frequent encounters with speed bumps and curbs can also impact your wheel alignment.
2. Hitting Potholes or Kerbs
One hard impact with a deep pothole or kerb can knock your wheels out of alignment. If you notice changes in steering or tyre wear after hitting something, it’s best to get your alignment checked immediately.
3. Uneven or Rapid Tyre Wear
Misaligned wheels cause your tyres to wear out unevenly or more quickly than normal. If you notice excessive wear on one side of your tyres or bald spots, it’s a sign that your alignment needs adjustment.
4. Steering Feels Off
If your car pulls to one side when driving on a straight road, or if your steering wheel isn’t centered when driving straight, these are clear signs that your alignment needs attention.
5. After Suspension or Steering Repairs
If you have had work done on your car’s suspension, steering components, or even new tyres installed, it’s a good idea to check the alignment to ensure everything is set correctly.
6. Routine Maintenance Check
Even if you don’t experience any noticeable issues, getting a wheel alignment as part of your routine vehicle maintenance helps prevent future problems.
What Happens If You Ignore Wheel Alignment?
Ignoring wheel alignment issues can lead to several problems:
- Uneven Tyre Wear – Misaligned wheels cause your tyres to wear down faster, meaning you’ll need replacements more frequently.
- Poor Handling – Driving with bad alignment can make steering less responsive and harder to control, which can be dangerous.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency – When your wheels are not properly aligned, your car has to work harder to move forward, leading to increased fuel consumption.
- Suspension Damage – Prolonged misalignment puts extra stress on your suspension and steering components, leading to costly repairs.
How Is a Wheel Alignment Done?
A professional wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your car’s wheels based on three key measurements:
- Camber – The inward or outward angle of the tyres when viewed from the front of the car.
- Toe – The direction the tyres point compared to the car’s centerline when viewed from above.
- Caster – The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the car.
Using advanced alignment machines, technicians measure these angles and adjust them to match the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.
Can You Check Wheel Alignment at Home?
While professional alignment is recommended, you can do a quick check at home by:
- Observing tyre wear patterns
- Checking if your car pulls to one side
- Ensuring the steering wheel is centered while driving straight
However, precise adjustments require professional equipment, so it’s always best to visit a qualified technician.
Conclusion
Wheel alignment is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance that affects safety, tyre longevity, and fuel efficiency. It’s recommended to check your alignment at least once a year or whenever you notice signs of misalignment.
If you suspect alignment issues, Mobile Tyre Surgeons can help! Our expert technicians provide professional wheel alignment services to keep your car in optimal condition. Contact us today for a quick and hassle-free check-up!
