Wheel Alignment : Needs of Every Car !!

6 months ago

Does your car pull to one side? Are the tyres worn excessively, or unevenly? Does the steering wheel vibrate, and do you have to constantly keep steering your car to travel straight ahead? These are the symptoms that your car is out of alignment.

WHEEL ALIGNMENT :

Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles of the wheels so that they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Proper wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining the stability, handling, and safety of your vehicle. It involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that your tires make optimal contact with the road surface. Wheels Play uses specialized 3-D equipment to measure and adjust the alignment angles of your wheels, including camber, caster, and toe. Regular wheel alignment checks and adjustments can help prolong the life of your tires, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance the overall driving experience.

The main parts that are checked and adjusted during an alignment are:

Camber

The inward or outward tilt of your tyres when you look front on. If your camber is misaligned, you may have premature tyre wear on one or some of your wheels, and your vehicle seems to "pull".

Toe

When you view your tyres from above, it is the inward (positive) or outward (negative) angle. A slight misalignment of the toe will result in a reduction in tyre life. For minimum tyre wear and power loss, the wheel of a vehicle should be pointing straight ahead.

Caster

The angle of your steering axis when viewed side-on. If wheel has too little positive caster, you'll likely find your vehicle wanders and has difficulty keeping a straight line. If it has too much positive caster, it'll result in heavy steering.

Thrust

The thrust angle is an imaginary line drawn perpendicular from the centerline of the rear axle down the centerline of the vehicle. The thrust angle determines if the wheelbase on both sides of the car is the same.

You can keep your vehicle running at peak performance when it is properly aligned. When you're due for your next wheel alignment, stop by Wheels Play for affordable service and excellent care.

Why is Wheel Alignment Important?

Proper wheel alignment is essential for several reasons:

Tyre Longevity: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear, leading to premature tyre deterioration and the need for frequent replacements. Proper alignment extends tyre lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Improved Handling and Safety: Correct wheel alignment ensures optimal tyre contact with the road, enhancing vehicle stability, handling, and cornering capabilities. It reduces the risk of skidding or losing control, especially during emergency manoeuvres.
Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels create unnecessary drag, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. With proper alignment, your car can achieve better fuel efficiency, saving you money at the pump.
Enhanced Suspension Performance: Misalignment places additional stress on suspension components, such as shocks and struts. By aligning the wheels correctly, you prevent premature wear and maintain a comfortable ride.

What Are the Causes of Misaligned Wheels?

Several factors can contribute to misaligned wheels:

Normal Wear and Tear: Over time, various components of the suspension system, including bushings and ball joints, can experience wear and become loose, affecting wheel alignment.
Potholes and Bumps: Hitting potholes, speed bumps, or other road irregularities can jolt the suspension system, knocking the wheels out of alignment.
Accidents or Collisions: Impact from accidents, even minor ones, can cause wheel misalignment. It’s crucial to have your alignment checked after any collision, regardless of the apparent damage.
Suspension Modifications: Altering the suspension system or installing aftermarket components without proper alignment adjustments can lead to wheel misalignment.

When Is the Right Time for a Wheel Alignment?

The correct settings for wheel alignment are exact, so you’ll probably notice a difference in the feel and function of your car if you need an alignment.

There are a couple of ways to tell if your car needs a wheel alignment. If you've noticed any of these indicators, you should immediately have your alignment checked by a licensed service technician. Look out for the following symptoms:

The steering wheel is crooked when you are driving straight: This may be a symptom of a change in the position of the wheels relative to the steering column.
When you drive, your car pulls to either the left or right: Does your vehicle want to drift to the left or right when you briefly let go of the wheel? Do you have to constantly steer in the opposite direction to keep the vehicle driving straight? These are classic symptoms that the wheels are out of alignment.
Squealing tires: Mild tyre squeak can be a symptom of weak springs in the suspension that cause one side of the car to sag.
Excessive/uneven tyre wear: An excellent way to check is by measuring the tread depth to see if your wheels are misaligned. If the wheels are correctly aligned, they will all be the same.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait To Get Your Car’s Wheels Aligned

If your car shows any signs that its wheels are out of alignment or if you’re unsure of how long it’s been since your last alignment, bring your vehicle to a Wheels Play : Alignment Shoppe. With a professional opinion, you can get the help you need to align your wheels and drive safely again.

This blog post was contributed by Wheels Play a leading industry expert and repair shop for Multi-Brand cars in Bihar and Delhi.

Wheel Alignment : Needs of Every Car !!