Wheel Alignment Services for a Smooth Ride
When it comes to car maintenance, people tend to think of oil changes and engine tune-ups, but in reality your wheels are just as important. Wheel alignment is essential to ensuring your car drives smoothly and safely. If your wheels are misaligned, even by just a small margin, that can lead to uneven tire wear, poor fuel efficiency, and unsafe driving conditions.
At SJM Autowerks, we get how important it is to you to keep your car in peak condition, and keeping your wheels aligned is an important part of that. We provide wheel alignments for:
- Volkswagen
- BMW
- Volvo
- Mercedes
- Audi
- Mini
- Jaguar
- Porsche
- Land Rover
What is a wheel alignment?
When your car was designed, the manufacturer had very specific angles that the wheels were meant to be set at, but over time, the wheels can lose those angles. An alignment adjusts the angles of your car's wheels so that they are pointing in the right direction. This also helps ensure they are making proper contact with the road, leading to a safer drive. Even slight deviations in these angles can lead to unpredictable handling and premature tire wear, so it's important to not neglect this essential piece of your car's care. After all, the tires are your car's contact with the road, making them one of the most important pieces to take care of.
Signs That Your Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment
- Uneven or rapid tire wear:If you see one side of your tires' treads wearing out faster than another, it is likely due to misalignment.
- Pulling to one side:Does your car pull to the left or right when you're driving on a straightaway? This is often the first sign of alignment issues.
- Off-center steering wheel:If your steering wheel isn't centered when you're driving straight, or if it just feels crooked or 'off' from what you're used to, your car may need an alignment.
- Steering wheel vibrations: Misaligned wheels can make your steering wheel vibrate, especially at higher speeds. This is caused by the tires pulling away from each other, so they're fighting for power instead of working together.
- Noisy steering: While this one can have a few causes, if you hear squealing or grinding while turning the steering wheel, it may be due to a wheel alignment issue, as it can put stress on your suspension and other steering components.
- Drifting:When you're holding the wheel straight, does it still feel like the car is drifting? If so, you likely have an alignment issue. While it may seem like a mild annoyance at first, this can get dangerous at high speeds.
Why Are Wheel Alignments Important?
Proper wheel alignments are crucial for a number of reasons, aside from just better handling and performance. It also improves your car's safety, as misaligned wheels can make your car harder to control, especially in bad weather. You'll also enjoy a smoother ride when your wheels are aligned, with your car driving straight and smooth with minimal vibrations.
When your car's wheels are aligned, you'll also enjoy increased tire longevity and better fuel efficiency, as your tires are working together as they should instead of fighting each other. Aligned wheels also put less strain on your suspension system, so you're less likely to need costly repairs to parts like your shocks and struts.
Wheel Alignment FAQs
How often should I get a wheel alignment?
You should usually get an alignment every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. You should also get an alignment after replacing your tires, getting suspension work, or after hitting a curb or pothole. And of course, if you notice any signs of misalignment, bring your car in for a check.
Can I drive with misaligned wheels?
You can technically drive on misaligned wheels, but we don't recommend it. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, reduce your fuel efficiency, and put a greater strain on your suspension. Most importantly, it can put your safety at risk as your car is harder to control when your wheels aren't properly aligned.
How much does a wheel alignment cost?
Unfortunately there is rarely a flat fee for a wheel alignment; rather, the cost will depend on a few factors like the type of vehicle and how badly it's out of alignment. At SJM Autowerks, we are proud to offer competitive pricing and transparent estimates so you can feel comfortable committing to the care your car needs.
When you're ready to enjoy the smooth ride you deserve, bring your car to SJM Autowerks. Our skilled service technicians can return your wheels to their proper alignment so that your tires will last longer and your drive will be safer. Call or stop by today to make an appointment and feel the difference a great wheel alignment can make.