If you’ve ever noticed your car drifting to one side or felt an unusual vibration in your steering wheel, it might be time for a brake, tire, or steering wheel alignment inspection. Steering wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and tire longevity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the signs that indicate it’s time for an alignment, what the alignment process entails, and when to come to us for a reliable alignment service in Centerville or Farmington, Utah.
Signs It’s Time for a Steering Wheel Alignment, Steering System, or Brake System Inspection
Identifying the need for a steering wheel alignment can save you from more severe problems. Here are some telltale signs that your vehicle needs an alignment:
Uneven Tire Wear
One of the most noticeable indicators is uneven tire wear. If your tires wear out more on one side than the other, it’s a strong sign that your wheels are misaligned; this can also be due to a lack of tire rotation. Once the tire wear has occurred, it can’t be reversed.
Vehicle Pulls to One Side
Your car should maintain a straight path when driving straight. If your vehicle pulls to one side or you constantly need to adjust the steering to keep it straight, it’s likely time for an alignment.
Vibrating Steering Wheel
A vibrating steering wheel can indicate tire wear, loose bearings, or warped brake rotors, especially at higher speeds. The alignment may cause tire wear, which causes this vibration. In rare cases, the alignment could be bad and cause the tires not to meet the road surface evenly.
Crooked Steering Wheel
If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, it’s another sign that your alignment is off. Your steering wheel should always be centered when your wheels are pointing straight ahead.
Squealing Tires
When driving or turning, a squealing sound from your tires can indicate that your alignment is out of whack. Properly aligned wheels should roll smoothly without any noise.
What is a Steering Wheel Alignment?
Steering wheel alignment, also known as wheel alignment, is the process of adjusting the angles of your wheels so that they are set to the car manufacturer’s specifications. These adjustments ensure that your wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other.
Types of Alignment Angles
- Camber: The wheel’s angle when viewed from the front of the car. Too much tilt, either inward or outward, indicates misalignment.
- Toe: The extent to which the tires turn inward or outward when viewed from above. Proper toe alignment ensures that the tires roll in parallel.
- Caster: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the car. Proper caster alignment helps with the vehicle’s balance and stability.
Steps of a Steering Wheel Alignment
Understanding the alignment process can help you appreciate its importance and complexity. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens during a steering wheel alignment:
Inspection
A professional mechanic thoroughly inspects the vehicle’s suspension and steering systems. They look for the wear pattern on your tires and worn-out parts, such as ball joints, tie rods, and bushings, that might affect the alignment.
Measurement
The vehicle is mounted on an alignment rack, where a computer measures the current alignment settings. This step identifies the camber, toe, and caster angles and compares them to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Adjustment
The mechanic adjusts the wheel angles using specialized tools to match the manufacturer’s specifications. This process involves fine-tuning the suspension components and steering linkage.
Verification
After the adjustments, the mechanic re-measures the alignment to ensure all angles are within the recommended range. This verification step guarantees that the alignment has been correctly performed.
Test Drive
A final test drive ensures the vehicle handles correctly and the steering wheel is centered. The mechanic checks for any remaining issues and makes further adjustments if necessary.
See Us For a Steering Wheel Alignment in Centerville or Farmington, Utah
To ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance, you need a reliable auto repair shop with trusted mechanics. Extreme Auto Group is your go-to destination for all your alignment needs in Centerville and Farmington, Utah.
Extreme Auto Group: Your Alignment Specialists
Extreme Auto Group offers top-notch steering wheel alignment services, ensuring your vehicle handles smoothly and safely. Their team of skilled mechanics uses advanced alignment equipment to provide precise adjustments.
Other Services Offered by Extreme Auto Group
- Check Engine light Diagnosis and repair: To ensure your engine is running at peak performance, maximizing fuel mileage and minimizing pollution.
- Auto Electrical Repair: Ensure your vehicle’s electrical systems are functioning correctly.
- Axle Repair: Maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s drivetrain.
- Diesel Repair: Specialized services for diesel engines.
- High-Mileage Oil Change: Keep your high-mileage vehicle running smoothly.
- Tire Repair: Fix punctures and extend the life of your tires.
- Transmission Leak Repair and Rebuild: Address transmission issues to prevent major failures.
- Oil Change: Fast and efficient oil change services to keep your engine in top condition.
Why Choose Extreme Auto Group?
- Our Car Knights in Shining Armor Promise: To provide clear car advice on time, every time!
- Experienced Mechanics: Their team has extensive experience in auto repair and alignment.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: They use the latest tools and technology for accurate alignments.
- Customer-Centric Service: Extreme Auto Group is committed to exceptional customer service and ensuring your satisfaction.
Schedule A Steering System Inspection or Wheel Alignment Today
A properly aligned steering wheel is crucial for safe and efficient driving. Suppose you notice signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or a vibrating steering wheel. In that case, it’s time to check your alignment. Extreme Auto Group in Centerville and Farmington, Utah, offers expert steering wheel alignment and other auto repair services. Trust their skilled mechanics to keep your vehicle in optimal condition and ensure a smooth, safe ride.
