You should get your car’s wheels aligned at some very specific times, like when you get new tires or as recommended in your car’s owner’s manual. But you can need a wheel alignment at any time, and Miller Auto Care wants you to know what it looks and feels like when your car’s wheels need aligning.
The Steering Wheel Is Loose or Not Lining Up
If you’re noticing that your steering wheel seems a lot looser than usual, the problem might be in your wheel alignment. There could be other problems, but those usually have additional symptoms. Also, pay attention to whether your steering wheel seems to line up correctly. Turn the wheel so that your wheels are pointed straight ahead. Your steering wheel should be even, with your car’s logo straight across. If the wheel looks wonky, your alignment is off.
There’s Uneven Tread Wear
Take a look at your tire treads on a regular basis. If you’re starting to see uneven tire wear, there could be a few reasons for that. Your wheel balance could be off or you may have skipped a few tire rotations, but it’s more likely that your wheels are out of alignment. Keeping your car’s wheels aligned helps to ensure that your tires wear evenly, therefore extending their life.
You Feel Vibrations as You’re Driving
As you’re driving, you might feel a bump or two because of the road. But if you’re feeling rhythmic vibrations, that’s a sign that your wheels aren’t aligned properly. They’re causing the tires to hit the pavement unevenly, causing those telltale vibrations. As you increase your speed, you’ll probably notice that the vibrations increase, too.
The Car Is Pulling to One Side
Any time that you’re fighting your car, that’s not good. In the case of alignment issues, you might find that as you’re driving along the car is pulling to one side or the other. That’s a classic case of alignment problems, because the wheels on that side of the car are facing a direction that’s causing the car to pull that way.
If you’re ready for a wheel alignment or just want yours checked, give us a call at Miller Auto Care in Medford, OR. We’ll inspect your wheel alignment and rule out other issues and then let you know what services your car most needs. Then we’ll get you back on the road safely and quickly.