Proper maintenance of your vehicle's tires is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and control while driving. Neglecting tire care can lead to various problems, most notably misaligned wheels, which can be dangerous if not addressed immediately. That's why we have made a short list of four ways you can tell when your wheels need alignment.
1. Faster Brake Wear
Misaligned wheels can also cause your brake pads and rotors to wear out unevenly, leading to more frequent pad changes. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your brake pads and rotors touch evenly, making braking more effective and preventing premature wear and tear.
2. Vehicle Vibrations At High Speeds
One of the most common signs of misaligned wheels is a vibrating sensation when you drive at high speeds. This happens because the wheels are not balanced properly, which leads to uneven rotation patterns. The vibration can be felt through the steering wheel and could cause you to lose control of the vehicle if it's severe enough.
3. Drifting to One Side
If you notice that your vehicle tends to drift to one side, even when you are holding the steering wheel straight, your wheels are misaligned. This is a dangerous situation that requires immediate attention as it can lead to accidents. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your wheels are balanced, contacting the ground with as much surface area as possible.
4. Off-Centered Steering Wheel
Another sign of misaligned wheels is an off-center steering wheel. When your wheels are not aligned properly, other parts and systems of your vehicle will also be misaligned, leading to an off-center steering wheel. This can make steering more difficult and affect your ability to control the vehicle. Getting your wheels aligned can fix this problem and make driving much safer and easier.
5. Increased Fuel Consumption
Because of the extra friction misaligned wheels create, fuel consumption goes up. The engine is working harder; therefore, the use of fuel is increasing. Even if it is a small amount, why don't you just save up the money instead?
6. Faster Brake Wear
Misaligned wheels can also cause your brake pads and rotors to wear out unevenly, leading to more frequent pad changes. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your brake pads and rotors touch evenly, making braking more effective and preventing premature wear and tear.
If you want a professional approach to a simple job like tire alignment, make sure to stop by Just Automotive. Our mechanics are skilled and patient with their work so they can produce the best result possible.