Signs of Misalignment
How do you know if your wheel alignment is off? Let the certified technicians at Motorpool present the facts. A common symptom of misalignment includes your car drifting or pulling to one side. You can check this by carefully taking your hands off the wheel when driving straight and in a non-crowded area. If your car veers on its own, it's time to get your alignment checked. Similar indicators deal with the condition of your steering: if your steering wheel is off-centered (it automatically shifts a couple degrees without your input), feels loose, or vibrates. Tires are the third main component that can display signs of misalignment, such as excessive or uneven wear or a squealing sound. When it comes down to it, any abnormality with your handling, steering, or tires is cause for concern and should be inspected by a professional.
Why Is Correct Alignment Important?
When your wheels are properly aligned, minimal effort is needed on your part to stay in control of your ride. However, stability and a smooth ride are just a couple of proper alignment aspects; it also facilitates better fuel economy. Bad alignment causes tires to drag more than roll, which can reduce your car's fuel economy by nearly 10%, according to experts (this is akin to roughly .31 cents/gallon). This drag also results in rapid and uneven tire wear, shortening the lifespan of your tires significantly. Of course, correctly aligned wheels also stave off the need for auto repair related to the suspension, steering, or tires. This is why wheel alignment service is part of routine maintenance. By coming in regularly for service, you're doing your part to ensure all components are in optimal condition.
What Does Wheel Alignment Service Look Like?
So, what exactly happens during a wheel alignment service? It involves the adjustment of the wheel's three main angles to manufacturer specifications. These include the camber, caster, and toe, each of which needs to be in the correct position to allow the wheel to point straight. When you bring your car in, we'll use our advanced technology and tools to measure your wheels in their current state, compare them to the manufacturer's recommendations, and adjust as needed. Depending on the results, we will either conduct a two-wheel or four-wheel alignment. We use top-of-the-line equipment to perform this intricate service and follow the proper industry procedures. For additional details, reach out to our team at (408) 688-5828.