The term “wheel alignment” can be misleading. Instead of referring to your vehicle’s wheels, wheel alignment actually relates to the suspension. Disruptions in suspension can cause some parts to be knocked out of kilter, shifting the wheels into improper angles. Wheel alignment puts them straight again.
There are 3 main causes of misalignment:
- Over time, components, such as suspension springs, can become slack and worn, leading to a shift in alignment. In this case, prevention is better than cure, so regular checks are required.
- Heavy impact or sudden jarring caused by bumping a curb, hitting a pothole, or being involved in an accident.
- A car’s suspension system is designed to work at a specific height. If you adjust this height without adjusting the suspension as well, the car’s wheels will probably go out of line.
Uneven wear can seriously compromise a tire’s performance. An unevenly worn tire is always at risk of a blowout, so it puts lives in danger. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear. Misaligned wheels also cause poor fuel economy since they have increased resistance with the road, resulting in higher gas mileage. Proper wheel alignment is not only essential for your comfort and safety on the road; it can also prolong the life of your tires. Vehicles with misaligned wheels experience irregular or rapid tire wear, meaning premature replacement.
Since 1979, our team at Scotty Muffler & Auto Repair has been providing honest and dependable services in the Lake Alfred area of Florida. Our certified technicians will have your truck or car back on the road in no time!