Wheel Alignment Service

Table of Contents

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension, the system that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the car manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment ensures optimal tire wear, vehicle handling, and safety. The three main aspects of wheel alignment are:

  1. Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front. Incorrect camber can cause uneven tire wear and affect handling.
  2. Toe: The extent to which the wheels turn inward or outward when viewed from above. Proper toe alignment ensures that the tires roll straight and parallel.
  3. Caster: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. It affects the vehicle’s stability and steering effort.

Importance of Proper Alignment

  • Tire Wear: Misalignment can cause tires to wear unevenly and more quickly.
  • Handling and Safety: Proper alignment ensures the vehicle handles correctly, providing better control and reducing the risk of accidents.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels can cause the vehicle to drag, reducing fuel efficiency.

Signs of Misalignment

  • Uneven or rapid tire wear.
  • The vehicle pulling to one side.
  • Steering wheel off-center when driving straight.
  • Vibrations in the steering wheel.

Regular Maintenance

It’s recommended to check your vehicle’s alignment every 6,000 miles or as specified by the manufacturer, especially if you frequently drive on rough roads or notice any signs of misalignment.

If you’re looking for wheel alignment service near you in the Webster Groves ares of St. Louis, MO, give is a call at 314-849-2900. We want our customers to get the maximum benefit from their vehicles and from their tires. If a vehicle is showing signs of alignment problems, we will notify our customers and suggest corrective action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Waiting too long for a vehicle alignment can lead to significant problems for both your vehicle and your safety. Primarily, this can result in uneven tire wear, negatively impacting the lifespan of your tires. When your car is improperly aligned, its wheels aren't pointing in the right direction which can cause a decrease in gas mileage, as your car must work harder to move forward. Also, you may experience handling problems such as pulling to one side or a steering wheel that vibrates or is not centered when driving straight. Ultimately, waiting too long for an alignment could cause serious damage to your vehicle's suspension system. Safety hazards may also arise from improper alignment, due to poor vehicle control.

Signs that indicate your tires are out of alignment include uneven tire wear, steering wheel vibration, car pulling to one side, steering wheel off center, and an unusual squealing noise when you turn corners. 

How long does it take for a wheel alignment?

A full alignment for a car usually takes around 60 minutes to two hours. This period can vary based on specific vehicle requirements and the type of alignment performed. For instance, a four-wheel alignment often takes longer than a front-end or thrust angle alignment. Overall, it is recommended to plan for approximately two hours to ensure enough time for a comprehensive job.