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Vehicle alignment refers to the proper positioning of a vehicle’s wheels according to manufacturer specifications. When the wheels are not aligned correctly, it can lead to various issues affecting tire wear, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance. If you’re driving your vehicle during those cold Wisconsin winters, or anytime! You want to be sure your car is ready for anything.

 

 

Here are some common signs that your vehicle may need an alignment:

• Uneven Tire Wear:
  • Feathering: Tires exhibit a feathered pattern where one side of the tread is smooth, and the other is rough. This is often a clear indicator of misalignment, as the tires are not rolling straight.
  • Camber Wear: Excessive wear on the inside or outside edges of the tires can result from camber misalignment. Camber refers to the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle.
  • Toe Wear: Uneven wear across the width of the tire, resembling a saw-tooth pattern, can be a sign of toe misalignment. Toe alignment relates to the angle at which the tires point inward or outward when viewed from above.
• Pulling or Drifting:
  • If your vehicle tends to pull to one side or drifts away from the center of the road, it may indicate a problem with alignment. A properly aligned vehicle should drive straight and respond predictably to steering input.
• Off-Center Steering Wheel:
  • A steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight is a clear sign of alignment issues. This misalignment can result from problems with the toe setting.
• Vibrations or Steering Wheel Crookedness:
  • Experiencing vibrations in the steering wheel or feeling it off-center even when driving straight can indicate misalignment. This may result in a less comfortable driving experience and can contribute to premature tire wear.
• Uneven Brake Wear:
  • Misaligned wheels can cause uneven pressure on the brake components, leading to uneven brake pad wear. If you notice one side of the brake system wearing faster than the other, it may be a sign of alignment issues.
• Reduced Fuel Efficiency:
  • Poor alignment can increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. If you notice a sudden decrease in gas mileage, it's worth checking the alignment of your vehicle.
• Handling Issues:
  • Difficulty maintaining control, especially when turning or maneuvering, can be a result of misalignment. Proper alignment contributes to stable and predictable handling.
• Suspension System Damage:
  • Prolonged misalignment can lead to increased stress on the suspension components, potentially causing damage over time. Timely alignment adjustments can help prevent unnecessary wear on these parts.

 

Regularly checking for these signs and addressing alignment issues promptly is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance. If you observe any of these signs, call your local Schierl Tire & Service and let us know! We will carefully inspect your vehicle and let you know any issues we find and how they might affect your safety on the road. If you need your vehicle’s alignment fixed, of course we can do that too!