Wheel Alignment Modesto

Your car’s alignment can be off for a number or reasons

Including hitting a pothole or curb. Look for these warning signs for car alignment problems. Hitting a large pothole head-on may cause more than a loud thud. It could throw off your car’s wheel alignment.

Improper wheel alignment can cause issues with how your vehicle handles — which could create a safety hazard — and can also negatively impact tire tread and gas mileage.

​Collisions even slight ones, can take a car out of alignment. Hitting stuff in the road is a big concern. Curb shots often take a car out of alignment but don’t get checked since the visible damage appears to get absorbed by the tire.

​Would you know if your car’s alignment was off and whether it needed to be repaired?

Why do your wheels need to be aligned?

Your tires are made of tough durable rubber.  The problem is that even tough rubber which carries a couple thousand pounds and moves at 70+ MPH get worn down. Tires wear down even faster if your right and left tires are not working together and pointing exactly straight down the road.

If they are off by a couple millimeters it can drastically affect how fast your tires wear. This changes the safety of your vehicle which is a big concern.

Highly rated mechanics offer signs to look out for and what to know about your car’s alignment.

Here’s what to know about wheel alignment and axle repair.

Abnormal tire wear

​Tires that are abnormally worn could be a sign your car’s alignment is off track.

Common tire wear comes from a lack of tire rotation. Unlike wear from poor alignment, though, normal tire wear typically occurs on the front tires and shows up as cupping on the outside edges. If the alignment is off, other wear patterns can show up, such as excessive wear on the inside edge and/or the outside edges of tires.

​Steering wheel pulling

If the steering wheel pulls to one side or the other or isn’t level when driving, it could be an alignment issue. Other than the physical effort of over-steering left or right, you’ll also notice the steering wheel is off-center and to the side of the alignment pull.

​Your steering wheel also may remain at an angle even when you’re driving in a straight line.

Routine alignment maintenance

​According to the NJDCA, wheels should be aligned every 10,000 miles; we recommend checking them for irregular tire tread. Wheel alignment is a maintenance issue that should be checked periodically.

Routine preventative maintenance says you should align your vehicle with the purchase of new tires, but if you drive over rougher terrain, more often than not, you’ll need to align more often.

How did your throw your wheel alignment off?

Well, anything that bumps your tire like a pothole, nudging a curb or a really swift KICK. Ok, not that one, but many physical disturbances on the road can affect your alignment.

The second reason many people don’t think about is if your car has a luxurious soft suspension system. Giving you the feeling you are driving around on a cloud. The issue is to that to give you that luxurious feeling the car manufacturer softened your suspension system making it less rigid giving your car more sway and bounce to absorb the rough road.

The softer your suspension is the more your heavy car jostles on the road. Which slowly loosens the suspension and that leads to having your wheels tilt in or out which is one of the fastest ways to rub your tires down to the steel tread in your tires that will require them to be replaced.

The solution is keeping your tires properly aligned. This keeps your tires rolling correctly in unison keeping them in great shape and keeping you safe on the road.

If you are experiencing any of those symptoms or just want to ask wheel alignment questions. Give us a call today we are always happy to help!

Top 10 FAQs About Wheel Alignment

1. Q: What is wheel alignment?

A: Wheel alignment refers to adjusting the angles of the wheels to the car manufacturer’s specifications. This adjustment ensures that the tires make proper contact with the road and drive straight.

2. Q: How often should I have my wheel alignment checked?

A: It’s generally recommended to have your wheel alignment checked at least once a year or if you notice any signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or if the vehicle pulls to one side.

3. Q: What are the signs that my car may need wheel alignment?

A: Signs include uneven tire wear, steering wheel off-center when driving straight, the car pulling to one side, or a vibrating steering wheel.

4. Q: Can I align my wheels myself

A: Wheel alignment requires specialized equipment and expertise. It’s best to do it by a professional at a reputable auto service center.

5. Q: How long does a wheel alignment service take?

A: The duration depends on factors like the type of alignment needed and the vehicle’s condition. Typically, it takes around 30 minutes to an hour.

6. Q: Is wheel alignment the same as tire balancing?

A: No, they are different. A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels, while tire balancing corrects weight imbalances in the tire and wheel assembly to prevent vibrations.

7. Q: Can hitting a pothole cause wheel misalignment?

A: Yes, hitting potholes, curbs, or other obstacles can lead to wheel misalignment. It’s advisable to have the alignment checked after significant impacts.

8. Q: How much does a wheel alignment service cost?

A: Costs vary by location and service provider. Generally, it’s a relatively affordable service, and the benefits of improved safety, tire life, and fuel efficiency outweigh the expense.

9. Q: Can wheel alignment affect my vehicle’s fuel efficiency?

A: Misaligned wheels can increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency. Proper alignment ensures optimal contact between tires and the road, improving fuel economy.

10. Q: Can I align just one wheel, or must I do all four?

A: It’s advisable to align all four wheels together. While a single misaligned wheel can cause issues, aligning all four ensures consistent handling and tire wear.

Remember, if you have concerns about your vehicle’s alignment, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic or an automotive service center for a thorough inspection and appropriate adjustments.