Regular vehicle maintenance is important for safe, smooth, and comfortable driving. While most drivers remember oil changes, tire pressure checks, and brake servicing, wheel alignment is sometimes overlooked. However, correct wheel alignment plays an important role in tire life, steering control, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance.
Fairmount Tire provides professional Tire Alignment services to help keep vehicles running safely and smoothly. Using professional alignment equipment, technicians can adjust wheel angles according to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment can reduce unnecessary tire wear, improve handling, and help protect your investment.
What Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so they sit correctly in relation to the road and each other. The three main alignment angles are camber, caster, and toe.
When these angles are incorrect, the tires may not make even contact with the road. This can result in uneven tire wear, poor steering response, reduced stability, and an uncomfortable driving experience.
How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?
A common recommendation is to have your wheel alignment checked every 6,000 to 10,000 kilometres or at least once a year. However, the exact schedule may vary depending on your vehicle, driving habits, road conditions, and manufacturer recommendations.
Your Wheel Alignment Frequency may need to be higher if you frequently drive on roads with potholes, rough surfaces, speed bumps, or construction areas. Drivers who travel long distances or regularly carry heavy loads may also benefit from more frequent alignment inspections.
It is always a good idea to check your vehicle owner’s manual for specific maintenance recommendations.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment
Your car will often provide warning signs when the wheels are no longer correctly aligned. One of the most common signs is the vehicle pulling to the left or right while you are trying to drive straight.
Other common signs include:
Uneven or unusually fast tire wear
A crooked steering wheel when driving straight
Steering wheel vibration
Poor steering response
Vehicle drifting to one side
Tires making unusual squealing sounds
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should arrange an alignment inspection instead of waiting for your regular maintenance schedule.
What Causes Wheel Misalignment?
Wheel alignment can change for many reasons. Hitting a large pothole, driving over a curb, or travelling regularly on damaged roads can affect wheel angles.
Accidents, even minor ones, may also cause alignment problems. In addition, worn suspension components such as shocks, struts, ball joints, and bushings can affect how your wheels sit on the road.
If you have recently replaced suspension components or installed new wheels or tires, having the alignment checked can help ensure everything is correctly positioned.
Why Is Wheel Alignment Important?
Correct alignment helps your tires wear more evenly. When wheels are misaligned, one section of a tire may experience more pressure than another, causing premature wear.
Proper alignment also helps improve vehicle control. A vehicle that drives straight and responds properly to steering inputs is easier and safer to handle, especially on highways or during poor weather conditions.
Misalignment may also increase rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder to keep the vehicle moving. Maintaining proper alignment can therefore contribute to efficient vehicle performance.
Wheel Alignment vs. Tire Balancing and Rotation
Wheel alignment is different from tire balancing and tire rotation.
Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels. Tire balancing ensures that weight is evenly distributed around the tire and wheel assembly, helping reduce vibration. Tire rotation involves moving tires between different positions on the vehicle to encourage even tread wear.
Although these services are different, they all play an important role in maintaining tire condition and driving comfort.
When Should You Get an Alignment Checked Immediately?
You should not wait for your yearly inspection if your vehicle has recently hit a major pothole, curb, or road hazard. An alignment check is also recommended after suspension repairs, accidents, or installing certain aftermarket suspension components.
Checking the alignment when purchasing new tires can also help protect your new tires from unnecessary uneven wear.
Conclusion
So, how often should you get a wheel alignment? For most vehicles, checking the alignment every 6,000 to 10,000 kilometres or at least once a year is a sensible guideline. However, rough roads, driving habits, suspension issues, and vehicle modifications may require more frequent inspections.
Paying attention to signs such as uneven tire wear, a crooked steering wheel, or your car pulling to one side can help you identify alignment problems early. Regular wheel alignment can extend tire life, improve handling, support fuel efficiency, and provide a safer and more comfortable driving experience.
