[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Current Location
[GEOTITLE] [GEOADDRESSONE] [GEOADDRESSTWO] [GEOPHONE] | Directions
Store Hours [GEOHOURSMONDAY] [GEOHOURSTUESDAY] [GEOHOURSWEDNSDAY] [GEOHOURSTHURSDAY] [GEOHOURSFRIDAY] [GEOHOURSSATURDAY] [GEOHOURSSUNDAY]
Go

News

16

How to Know You Need a Wheel Alignment

posted on
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of the wheels on your vehicle to the specifications of your vehicle manufacturer. When your vehicle was built, the wheels were perfectly positioned to the manufacturer’s ideal specifications, but over time your vehicle loses its alignment. Misalignment issues can lead to serious safety and performance issues and costly repairs. A wheel alignment service will optimize the various angles of your wheels to each other, and to the road. Wheel Alignments
 
Aligning your wheels requires the vehicle to be placed on a wheel alignment machine. This machine uses specific measurements to allow the technician to set and adjust the suspension components back to the factory specifications. The common alignment angles are camber, caster, and toe. These angles become misaligned due to potholes, hitting curbs, speed bumps, being in an accident and other driving hazards. So, how do you know when your vehicle requires a wheel alignment? 
 

The Most Common Indications Your Vehicle Requires a Wheel Alignment

 
  • Steering Wheel is Not Straight — If you are driving on a flat straight path, your steering wheel should be straight, centered, and still. Poor alignment will cause your steering wheel to be crooked and off-centered or at an odd angle when driving straight. 
  • Drifting or Pulling — If your vehicle drifts to the left or right while driving straight down a leveled road your alignment is off. 
  • Uneven Tire Wear — A camber adjustment issue will cause excessive tire wear, particularly on the edges of your tires. 
  • Vibration — If your steering wheel vibrates when you are driving, this can be another indication your wheels are out of alignment. 
  • The Vehicle Handling Feels Loose — Your car will be unstable and loose when driving straight and taking turns due to improper wheel alignment. 
  • Vehicle Noise — If you hear squeaking, creaking, knocking or rubbing when you start driving or go around corners, this may be an indication of steering and suspension issues. A wheel alignment will be required after these repairs. 
 
Experts recommend that wheels need to be aligned after every 10,000 miles. You will require wheel re-alignment sooner depending on your driving conditions or if you’ve had an accident. Everyday driving over constant speed bumps, hitting curbs, or potholes slowly causes your tire angles to change. Incorrect wheel alignment can create drivability and premature wear problems, so it’s best to get the vehicle inspected as soon as you notice any of the indications of wheel alignment issues. Visit our auto repair shop and have our mechanics inspect your wheel alignment, make the necessary adjustments, and keep you and your passengers safe!
Categories: Auto Repair 101 | View Count: (30) | Return

Visit Our Shop

Highland Tire

Contact Us

Phone: (724) 224-7900
Fax:
Address: 1707 Freeport Rd
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Phone: (724) 224-5900
Fax:
Address: 1701 Broadview Blvd
Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Phone: (724) 224-9222
Fax: (724) 224-6610
Address: 200 Boyd St.
Tarentum, PA 15084
Powered by Net Driven
Login

Stop By and See Us Today!

Highland Tire proudly serves the local Natrona Heights, Tarentum, PA area. We understand that buying new tires can be overwhelming. Let us help you choose from our large selection of tires. We feature tires that fit your needs and budget from top quality brands, such as Michelin®, BFGoodrich®, Uniroyal®, and more. We pride ourselves on being your number one choice for any tire service, from flat tire repair to tire rotation. Let us earn your business.