Understanding The Importance Of Wheel Alignment

If you feel your vehicle pulling to the left or right when you are travelling along a straight, flat road with little to no cross-wind or have noticed your tires wearing abnormally, then you may need to have your wheel alignment checked. You should take your vehicle to a reputable garage where a mechanic will check the alignment.

Why Wheel Misalignment Happens

There are several reasons why the wheels on a vehicle can become misaligned:

  • Hitting a kerb or driving through a pothole in the road

  • Being involved in a road accident

  • Having components on the vehicle replaced that affect the steering or wheels

Under normal driving conditions, and without any of the issues outlined above, you should have your wheels checked at least once a year. If you drive in extreme weather conditions, or are experiencing any compromise in the handling of your vehicle, you should take your vehicle to a garage and seek professional advice.

Why Wheel Alignment Is Important

Wheel alignment has an effect on the amount and the distribution of wear and tear the tires will endure. Manufacturers align wheels to minimize the wear and tear on the tires and to maximize driver comfort. Correct wheel alignment across all four wheels will help increase the performance and life of the tires, as well as improve fuel economy. In addition, handling and driving safety will be improved as a result of reduced steering and stability interference.

The Difference Between Wheel Alignment And Wheel Balancing

Wheel alignment often gets confused with wheel balancing, but they are two completely different procedures. Wheel alignment consists of making adjustments to the vehicles wheels to re-align them back to the manufacturer's specifications.

Wheel balancing on the other hand involves adding weights to the rim of the wheel until they spin without any vibration. Having a well balanced wheel allows for a smoother drive, transmitting fewer vibrations through to the steering.

Benefits of Having Well-Aligned Wheels

A few of the benefits to having your wheels correctly aligned:

  • Your tires will last longer, saving you money

  • Handling of your vehicle will be optimized

  • The driving experience will be smoother for both you, and your passengers

  • You will experience better fuel economy

The overall benefit of having well aligned wheels can outweigh the cost of having them aligned by a mechanic. In addition, the safety, performance and stability gains make it an important and worthwhile part of your vehicle maintenance. 

For more information, contact a company like PEPPERS TYRES BERKELEY VALE.


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