Wheel alignment is the process of ensuring the wheels of your vehicle are perpendicular to the road and that they stay parallel to one another – all of this while maintaining sustained pressure to guard against friction. You should get a wheel alignment every time your vehicle is serviced. At the time of wheel alignment, your technician can assess the condition of your tires and suggest new ones if necessary.
Here are the five top benefits of wheel alignment.
1. Fuel Efficiency
When your car’s wheels are misaligned, the tires will drag, which results in lower gas mileage by up to 10 percent. Bottom line is, if your wheels aren’t aligned correctly, you’re spending more than you have to on fuel. Remember: regular wheel alignment can greatly increase fuel efficiency over time.
2. Smoother Ride
Is your vehicle pulling to one side or the other? This is a sign that your wheels are out of place. You will notice vibrations, or a jarring or bumpy ride. With a proper wheel alignment, you get a smooth ride that offers a much better driving experience overall.
3. Improved Steering
Do you find yourself having to hold the steering wheel at an angle to steer straight or to keep the car from going side to side? Again, your wheels could be out of alignment. This makes it harder to steer, resulting in more of a risk of getting in a car accident. With proper wheel alignment, you can steer with better control, putting safety at the forefront.
4. Fewer Auto Repairs
If you hit a pothole or a divot in the road, you can be causing more damage to your vehicle and suspension system if you have a poor alignment. Even the slightest bump or jolt can lead to costly problems. It’s wise to spend a little bit now on maintenance rather than a lot later because you neglected this critical task.
5. Longer-Lasting Tires
When placed on misaligned wheels, your tires will wear prematurely and become uneven. Your tires are one of the most important safety features on a vehicle – you need good quality tires to keep you safe on the road. Regularly check for uneven wear on the tread. Be on the lookout for:
- Tires start to look “feathered” (smooth or worn on one side with a sharp texture on the other).
- Edges of your tire tread are looking more worn than in the middle.
- One side of the tread blocks look like they are wearing more than the other, a symptom of the vibrations that come with misalignment.
It’s vital to have your tires aligned and balanced regularly – usually every 6,000 miles. This will lead to a longer lifespan for your tires and keep you safe while driving.
Contact I&I Tires
If you need new tires, contact us in Smyrna at 404-920-0278 or Atlanta at 678-284-2006 for a mobile appointment.