What Causes Alignment Problems
There are a few key factors that can cause your car to lose its wheel alignment. First, hitting potholes or the curb can cause a problem with your alignment. If you bump into another hard surface with your wheels, such as parking stalls made of concrete, you may also find that your wheels are out of alignment. Finally, normal wear and tear over time will also cause your wheels to lose alignment. As your car grows older, the rubber in your tires can lose its elasticity and the socket joints in your wheels can become loose, gradually causing your wheels to become more and more out of alignment.
Signs You Need an Alignment
How do you know when you need an alignment? Here are a few common indicators:
Wear: When your tires show uneven wear, this usually indicates that your wheels are out of alignment.
Drifting: If you car drifts to one side when you believe that you are driving straight, this likely means that your wheels need an alignment.
De-centering: Finally, if you are driving in a straight line but your steering wheel is de-centered, this means that your wheels are out of alignment.
Benefits & Consequences
Getting an alignment brings you important benefits, while avoiding an alignment can bring serious consequences. First, if your wheels are aligned, your tires will wear more evenly and at a slower pace. This will save you money in the long run because replacing tires can be quite expensive. In addition, getting an alignment makes your care safer because it will drive straight and handle correctly in terms of steering. Finally, your car will get better gas mileage with an alignment. Not getting an alignment carries both the consequences of lost money and decreased safety. Contact Hillmuth Certified Automotive today to schedule your appointment for service.
