Maintaining your car in excellent condition avoids costly breakdowns and repairs. To get the most out of your vehicle, you should have it serviced regularly and maintain its components in top condition. One integral part of the car is the tires; you should have them checked for proper alignment.
If some of the wheels are misaligned, you may have to adjust the direction of your steering. And this drags you in the opposite direction. This may not be easy to detect, and there are signs to look out for.
Do I need to visit a wheel alignment specialist?
If you drive over an object or a pothole, your wheels will likely get misaligned. Multiple signs may indicate improper wheel alignment. These include;
- Your car leaning to one side
If driving on a straight road with minimal traffic, it’s easy to note when your car pulls towards one side. To determine this, take your hands off the steering wheel and let the car ride itself. If the wheels are misaligned, they will swerve or drift towards one side of the road. Repeat this twice, and if it still happens, have them examined and aligned by a professional.
Also, you may notice uneven wear on the tire treads. If this happens, contact the auto shop, and set an appointment with an experienced mechanic. This will help re-align the tires for enhanced control.
- Steering wheel vibration
Steering wheel vibration is an annoying yet common issue among most drivers. If the steering wheel vibrates as you drive, this may indicate damages to the chassis system or unbalanced or misaligned tires. It may also mean other serious problems. These may include;
- Brake problems
- Suspension issues
However, only a skilled mechanic can ascertain the exact cause of the vibration.
- Uneven steering wheel
When driving on a flat and straight road, the steering wheel should stay perfectly centred. To determine this, keep an eye on the emblem at the centre of the steering wheel. It will stay straight if it’s centered. However, if it tips some degrees off level, it may be uneven. If this happens, take your vehicle to a specialist for wheel alignment services.
- Loose steering
Loose steering is pretty common and can be dangerous. It can lead to a decreased response when turning. And this results from misaligned wheels and worn-out tie rod ends which connect the tires to the steering system.
Is it essential to fix a wheel alignment problem?
Most drivers think that wheel misalignment isn’t a big deal. However, not seeking prompt help will cause more damage to your tires and vehicle. Again, you may suffer poor gas mileage, which is common in cars with misaligned tires. Always take your vehicle for a proper check when you notice any of these signs. This ensures a more efficient steering system and control.
In summary
Tires are a crucial component of your vehicles. If misaligned, they can make you veer off the road and cause accidents. To determine whether you have poorly aligned wheels, consider the tips discussed above and have your ride examined by a professional.
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