There’s a lot that goes into to keeping your vehicle in optimal shape, and it may seem tempting to skip out on some of the regular updates it needs, but wheel alignment is not something you should avoid, especially when you’ve been in an accident and need collision repair. Proper wheel alignment keeps your car driving smoothly and ensures that your car can steer and handle accurately. It’s also necessary for maximizing your brakes’ performance. Improper alignment can cost you money, as it will cause your wheels to wear out unevenly, which can shorten the life of your tires significantly, as well as possibly add excess drag to your car’s dynamics, resulting in poor fuel efficiency.
This is why most manufacturers recommend yearly wheel alignment, or twice yearly if you regularly drive on rough roads. Other than yearly alignments, it is recommended to have your wheels aligned when:
- You purchase new tires
- You’ve been in any sort of collision, whether it necessitates collision repair or not
- You hit a curb or drive over a pothole at a high speed.
- Your suspension has been adjusted
- You feel your vehicle pulling to one side or your steering wheel is crooked when you’re driving straight
- You notice uneven or rapid tire wear
Don’t hesitate to get a wheel alignment service if you experience any of the above situations. If it’s part of your collision repair, make sure that your car repair technician includes it in the scope. This will help ensure that your car is ready and safe to be back on the road.
