Your car’s owner’s manual might have some information about how often the manufacturer recommends a wheel alignment, but at MotivWerks we know that there are a variety of things that affect wheel alignment before those recommended inspections. Any number of these concerns could be affecting your car’s wheel alignment, so it’s important to make sure that you’re getting alignments done when your car needs them, as opposed to according to a set schedule.
New Tires
When you get new tires, you want them to last as long as possible. Misaligned wheels mean that the wheels won’t be connecting with the road properly, so those brand-new tires are going to experience uneven wear right out of the gate. By getting your wheels aligned while you’re getting new tires, you ensure that you’re starting your tires out with the best possible chance at a longer lifespan.
New Suspension Parts
Your car’s suspension helps to protect it from excessive bumps and knocks, while also ensuring that the car handles well. If you’re replacing worn suspension parts, you also need to make sure that the wheels are properly aligned. The suspension system connects directly to the wheels, so you don’t want to damage your brand-new suspension with wheels that are out of alignment.
The Car Pulls to One Side While Driving
As you’re driving, pay attention to how the wheel feels. If it feels like you’re battling the car to stay in your lane, that’s called pulling. This typically means that your car’s wheels aren’t aligned properly. There may be other causes, but the best place to start is by having your alignment inspected and then you can go from there. Also, if you notice that your steering wheel isn’t straight when you know the car is facing straight ahead, that’s an alignment issue.
After an Accident
If you’ve been in an accident, even a small one, you might have knocked your wheels out of alignment. This happens because bumping and jostling your wheels can cause them to slightly misalign. Even hitting potholes or parking stops just a little bit too hard can cause an alignment issue. It’s always best to have your car inspected thoroughly after an accident, even if the damage seems to be only cosmetic.
Not sure if your wheels are properly aligned or not? Contact us at MotivWerks in Chambersburg, PA and we’ll set up an appointment to inspect your wheel alignment for you. We can also check for related issues, such as uneven tire wear and suspension issues.