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Maintaining a smooth ride, easy steering, and even tire wear are things we often take for granted when driving. However, if you’ve noticed any steering difficulties, your car pulling to one side, or uneven tire wear, these could be signs that your vehicle’s alignment is off. Getting your vehicle checked by a trusted service provider, like McCullough NAPA Auto Care in Sandy Springs, Georgia, can help your vehicle’s suspension and steering systems maintain proper alignment.
Signs of a Bad Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment can help improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire performance. However, misaligned tires can negatively impact various areas of your car, like the steering system, braking system, suspension, and tires. Your car’s wheels may become misaligned from driving on rough roads, potholes, or worn-out components like shocks or struts. The good news is that it’s easy to tell when your wheel alignment is off.
- Uneven or accelerated tire wear, bald spots, or worn edges
- Pulling to one side when driving straight
- A crooked steering wheel while driving straight
- Steering wheel vibrations while driving
- Tires squealing when turning
How To Check Your Wheel Alignment
While alignment issues may develop gradually, making it hard to notice at first, there are simple ways to check if your vehicle has an alignment problem:
- Find a safe, flat area – An empty parking lot or a quiet, level road is ideal.
- Check your tire pressure – Underinflated tires can cause steering issues, so ensure all tires are properly inflated.
- Drive straight at a low speed – Loosen your grip on the steering wheel slightly and see if the car drifts or pulls to one side.
- Repeat the process – If the car continues to pull or drift, it’s time to schedule an alignment service.
If you suspect an issue, McCullough NAPA Auto Care is ready to assist with a professional wheel alignment.
What Happens During a Wheel Alignment Service?
When you bring your vehicle to McCullough NAPA Auto Care, our ASE-certified technicians will thoroughly inspect your tires, steering components, and suspension system. The technician will use precise measurements, such as camber, caster, and toe angles, to adjust your suspension according to manufacturer specifications.
Here’s what to expect during the alignment service:
- Initial inspection: Tires are checked for wear, and steering/suspension components are inspected for damage or misalignment.
- Alignment adjustment: The technician adjusts the suspension system based on your vehicle’s specifications to align the wheels correctly.
- Post-service review: Our team may provide recommendations for tire replacement or further repairs if necessary.
How Long Does an Alignment Service Take?
The time for an alignment service depends on your vehicle’s drivetrain and the severity of the misalignment. Depending on the complexity of the job and whether you have an appointment, a typical alignment service can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.
How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?
Ignoring alignment issues can increase tire and suspension component wear, which can result in expensive repairs. As a rule of thumb, we recommend scheduling an alignment service every two years as part of routine vehicle maintenance. However, if you notice any symptoms of bad alignment sooner, don’t wait to get it checked.
