A wheel alignment, also known simply as an alignment, is a standard part of vehicle maintenance that involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the car manufacturer's specifications. The primary purpose is to let the suspension and the steering systems operate at their desired angles - this reduces tire wear and ensures that your vehicle drives straight and true, without pulling to one side.

Why Wheel Alignment is Important:

  1. Reduces Tire Wear: Improper alignment is a major cause of premature tire wear. When your vehicle’s wheel alignment is not proper, tires may wear unevenly; for example, one edge could wear out faster than the other. Regular alignment helps ensure your tires wear evenly and last longer.

  2. Improves Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels can decrease your car’s fuel efficiency because they force your engine to work harder. Properly aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance and increase fuel efficiency.

  3. Improves Handling and Drive Quality: A car with poor alignment may have handling issues such as pulling to one side of the road, an off-center steering wheel, or a generally unstable or shaky ride. An alignment restores balance to your car's handling, making it safer and more enjoyable to drive.

  4. Prevents Other Mechanical Issues: Misalignment can put stress on various car components, including the suspension and steering systems. Aligning the wheels can prevent broader mechanical issues that can arise from undue stress on car parts due to alignment issues.

When to Get a Wheel Alignment:

  • After the Purchase of New Tires: This helps protect your investment by extending the life of your new tires.

  • If There Has Been a Significant Impact or There Are Visible Signs of Wear: Hitting a curb, driving over a pothole, or other types of impacts can knock your vehicle out of alignment. Also, if you notice uneven tire wear, it’s likely an alignment issue.

  • According to the Manufacturer's Recommendations: Many car manufacturers recommend having a vehicle's alignment checked at regular intervals or during major service intervals like every other oil change.

  • When You Notice Handling Differences: If the car starts pulling to one side, or if the steering wheel vibrates or doesn't return easily after a turn, these could be signs that an alignment is needed.

Typically, a wheel alignment involves adjusting the vehicle's wheels to a set of specific angles — camber, caster, and toe. These adjustments are:

  • Camber: This is the inward or outward angle of the tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Too much inward or outward tilt, known as negative or positive camber, respectively, indicates improper alignment.

  • Caster: This angle is viewed from the side of the vehicle. Caster is the angle of your wheel’s pivot point, which is attached to the suspension. Positive caster ensures stability and steering precision; negative caster can make steering effort lighter but less stable.

  • Toe: This is the extent to which your tires turn inward or outward when viewed from above. Like camber and caster, toe is measured in degrees and is critical for ensuring that the tires track parallel to each other.

Regularly scheduled wheel alignments can save you money in the long run by extending the life of your tires and potentially saving on fuel due to increased efficiency. Plus, it contributes to improved safety, better handling, and a smoother ride.

Baber Auto Repair is an independent, family-owned repair shop with ASE Certified Technicians who live in the neighborhood. We are located in Roseville, MN and we service vehicles from all over the St. Paul/Minneapolis area. Our customers come from all over – including Falcon Heights, Arden Hills, Little Canada, and Vadnais Heights. If you feel like your vehicle needs to have it’s Alignment inspected by reliable technicians, contact us today!