Why Do Alignment Angles Change?
Alignment angles refer to the specific angles at which the wheels of a vehicle are set in relation to each other and the vehicle’s suspension. The right alignment angles ensure your tires perform properly, enhance your safety on the road, and prolong the lifespan of your tires. However, a vehicle’s alignment angles may change over time due to various reasons.
The knowledgeable and experienced mechanics at Chloe's Auto Repair and Tire are experts in tire and wheel alignment. Today, we will explain why alignment angles change and what you can do to restore proper tire and wheel alignment.
Why Is A Wheel Alignment Necessary?
Here are four reasons why proper wheel alignment is important:
- Longer Tire Lifespan: Proper tire and wheel alignment helps ensure that your tires wear evenly. When your wheels are out of alignment, certain areas of the tires bear more weight and friction than others. This uneven wear can lead to premature tire replacement. By keeping your wheels properly aligned, you extend the lifespan of your tires, saving you money in the long run.
- Smooth Ride: Do you feel your car pulling to one side, or maybe it doesn't quite steer straight? These are signs of poor tire and wheel alignment. When your wheels aren't properly aligned, you’ll have a less enjoyable driving experience. The right alignment angles ensure a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Safety: Misaligned wheels can affect your ability to control the vehicle, especially in emergency situations or adverse road conditions. Proper alignment helps maintain your car's stability and responsiveness, contributing to safer driving experiences for you and your passengers.
- Fuel Efficiency: You’ll get better fuel mileage when your tires and wheels are properly aligned. Misalignment leads to increased rolling resistance, which can result in reduced fuel mileage.
Reasons Why Alignment Angles Change
- Bent Components
One of the primary reasons for changes in alignment angles is damage to key suspension or steering components. Accidents, hitting potholes, or driving over rough terrain can bend or damage parts like control arms, tie rods, or even the chassis itself. These damages can alter the alignment angles.
- Worn Springs
Over time, the springs in your vehicle’s suspension system can weaken or sag, causing a shift in the ride height and altering the alignment angles. Your vehicle’s springs can wear out as a result of excessive load, corrosion, off-roading, harsh driving, and more. Worn vehicle springs are usually accompanied by uneven ride height, increased bouncing, dips during braking, and other issues. It’s recommended that you have a professional auto repair service inspect your vehicle from time to time to identify spring wear.
- Rough Driving Conditions
Frequent driving on uneven or rough road surfaces can gradually knock the wheels out of alignment. Potholes, speed bumps, and uneven terrain can impact your vehicle’s alignment angles.
- Loads In The Rear Of The Vehicle
Carrying heavy loads in the rear of your vehicle can affect the alignment angles, particularly the rear wheel alignment. When your vehicle's rear suspension is compressed under a heavy load, the alignment angles can change and cause uneven tire wear. You should be mindful of weight distribution and load limits.
Tires And Wheel Alignment Services
Looking for a reputable auto repair service that provides tire and wheel alignment services? Look no further than Chloe's Auto Repair and Tire. The mechanics at Chloe's Auto Repair and Tire offer professional and cost-effective tire alignment and wheel alignment services. You’ll know it’s time for tire and wheel alignment if you notice the following signs:
- Your car pulls to one side
- Your steering wheel is off the center
- Steering wheel shakes while driving
- Uneven tire wear
- Abnormally quick tire wear
- Squealing tires
- Increased tire pressure
- Reduced fuel efficiency
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, reach out to Chloe's Auto Repair and Tire. We are a trusted auto repair shop specializing in wheel and tire alignment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
