A car with unaligned wheels will need new tyres more frequently than a car with proper wheel alignment. Not only does misalignment cause tyres to wear out faster, but it also places additional strain on other vehicle components like the rotors, leading to costly repairs. But what exactly causes wheels to become misaligned? Typically, wheel misalignment occurs when there is an issue with the suspension or chassis. Misaligned wheels can lead to poor fuel economy and a bumpy ride. The front wheels are often the most affected by alignment problems. Sometimes, the misalignment may be so slight that you can’t easily tell. However, there are several methods to check if your wheels are out of line.
Signs of Wheel Misalignment
Driving with misaligned wheels can be problematic, but the symptoms are often subtle until the problem worsens. Here are some key signs to look out for:
- Pulling to one side: One of the quickest ways to check if your wheels are misaligned is to drive on a straight stretch of road, then briefly let go of the steering wheel. A properly aligned vehicle will continue to drive straight, but if your wheels are out of alignment, the car will veer to the left or right. If you feel that you’re constantly fighting the steering wheel to keep the car straight, this is a clear indication of a misalignment issue. The problem may be that one or both of your front tyres are pointed inward (toed-in) or outward (toed-out). A front wheel alignment will correct this issue.
- Uneven tyre wear: Another common sign of misaligned wheels is uneven tyre wear. Tyres should wear evenly if you rotate them regularly and maintain the correct tyre pressure. If you notice uneven wear despite following these maintenance steps, it’s likely that your wheels are out of alignment. Uneven wear can also indicate that the caster or camber of your wheels needs adjustment. In some cases, it could be a sign that your vehicle’s shock absorbers need replacing.
How to Measure Wheel Alignment
If you’re unsure whether your wheels are aligned, you can perform a simple measurement test. This method can help you determine if the front and rear tyres are aligned properly:
- Step 1: Park your car on a flat surface – Make sure the front wheels are pointing straight ahead before you begin measuring.
- Step 2: Measure the front tyres – Take a tape measure and measure the distance from the centre of the right front tyre to the centre of the left front tyre.
- Step 3: Measure the rear tyres – Now, do the same measurement for the rear wheels.
- Step 4: Compare the measurements – If the front tyre measurement is smaller than the rear tyre measurement, your wheels are likely toed-in. If the front measurement is larger, the wheels are likely toed-out. Either scenario indicates a misalignment that needs to be addressed.
Causes of Wheel Misalignment
Several factors can contribute to wheel misalignment, including:
- Potholes and road debris: Hitting a pothole or debris at high speed can jolt your suspension and chassis, causing the wheels to become misaligned.
- Worn suspension components: Over time, the suspension parts of your vehicle can wear out, leading to alignment problems. This includes parts like shock absorbers, springs, and struts.
- Accidents: Even minor collisions can affect your vehicle’s alignment, especially if the impact is on the wheels or suspension system.
What to Do if Your Wheels Are Misaligned
If you suspect your car’s wheels are misaligned, it’s crucial to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your tyres and vehicle. Here’s what you should do:
- Get a professional wheel alignment: Taking your car to a professional mechanic for a wheel alignment is the best course of action. A wheel alignment ensures that your tyres are adjusted to the correct angles as specified by the manufacturer. This process improves the handling of your vehicle, increases the lifespan of your tyres, and enhances fuel efficiency.
- Replace worn suspension parts: If your alignment issues are caused by worn suspension components, your mechanic may recommend replacing the affected parts. Addressing the underlying cause of misalignment will prevent further problems and ensure a smoother ride.
- Regular maintenance: It’s important to have your wheels checked and aligned regularly as part of your vehicle’s routine maintenance. Proper alignment not only saves you money on tyres but also improves fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance.
Conclusion
Wheel alignment is an essential aspect of maintaining your vehicle’s performance and safety. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear, poor fuel economy, and a rough driving experience. Regularly checking for signs of misalignment and getting a professional alignment when necessary, will help extend the life of your tyres and improve your vehicle’s handling. Don’t ignore the warning signs – if your car pulls to one side, your tyres wear unevenly, or you notice strange vibrations while driving, it’s time to have your wheels checked by a professional.
