Is It Time for a Wheel Alignment?

Wheel misalignment: the problem many drivers only become aware of long after it set in. The problem manages to fly under our radars because it’s not something we can readily see, but rest assured that even the slightest misalignment can cause long-term damage if not addressed. So the question is this: when should you get your wheels aligned?

General guidelines from mechanics as well as car and tire manufacturers settle in between 5,000 and 6,000 miles, but the reality is that driven conditions where you are can change this significantly. While it’s a good idea to wait no longer than 6,000 miles to have your tires aligned, poorly maintained roads may necessitate the need for having your tires aligned sooner rather than later. If left unchecked, poorly aligned tires can affect your steering and result in more wear (and less grip) on the tires themselves. So the 5,000 to 6,000 recommendation is solid, paying attention to certain signs can help save you money in the long run.

Your vehicle was assembled with the tire’s specific, set alignment for a reason: to achieve optimal performance. When the tires are out of line, it can become difficult to drive straight, with veering and pulling becoming common problems. Tire squealing is another sign to look for: if the wear is uneven on one or more tires, the excess pressure may be shifted onto them, causing the squeal. The best thing you can do is keep an eye on the tread of your tires themselves. Though they will wear gradually over time, rapid wear on one or more tires could be indicative they are misaligned. If you’re having trouble gauging this yourself, take your vehicle into a trusted mechanic and get their opinion.

There’s more to keeping your car in working order than maintaining tire alignment! Let Car Care Connection show you the best ways to care for your vehicle. Visit us at 6503 Gateway Avenue in Gulf Gate, or call us at 941-924-6199.