When to Get an Alignment
Generally it’s important to get an alignment after any suspension component is replaced. A good maintenance shop will quote you the price of mounting and balancing the tires, required for even wear, with an alignment. A vehicle will typically hold alignment unless there is a worn component within your suspension that causes it to gradually go out. The most usual case, are worn tires, that slowly pull and push your wheels out of alignment.
Having a properly aligned car can save gas and provide a smoother ride. A car that is out of alignment will pull to one side and cause your tires to wear faster, shortening their safety life span. Not only would handling suffer, but it also creates a bumpy ride as your tires fight each other, pulling in different directions on the road.
You should only get a wheel alignment if the rest of your cars suspension is up to snuff. Meaning all your shocks and struts should be in good working condition. If the car still bounces after hitting a bump or the car wants to pull to one side, you need to replace those components first. If any of the suspension components are weak or not doing their job, then your new wheel alignment won’t last long.
Your car may be in need of an alignment if you experience any of the following:
- Car wants to ‘pull’ to one side.
- Uneven wear on your tires, front or back.
- Difficult steering, especially at slow speeds.
- Bouncing or wheel hop.
The symptoms above could point to the need for a wheel alignment. Keep in mind wheels that are not properly aligned can also damage other suspension components. Control arms, shafts, rods, bushings, joints, and knuckles all make up your suspension system and work in harmony. If one component is failing or weak then it can quickly cause the others problems and to wear faster.
If changing any of your suspension components it’s a good idea to have your wheel alignment checked. Most shops can test and recommend you an alignment if necessary.
Christopher Davidson is an author for the popular automotive blog The-Grayline.com, where opinion and auto enthusiasm meet. For more car maintenance tips and how-to’s please visit The-Grayline.com.
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