How to Spot and Repair Vehicle Alignment Issues

Keeping Your Vehicle Safe: The Importance of Wheel Alignment

In Alberta, approximately 385 car accidents occur every day, and vehicle-related issues are often a contributing factor. One crucial maintenance step that directly impacts your safety is ensuring proper wheel alignment. Misalignment can compromise handling, increase wear on tires, and even contribute to accidents. Proper alignment helps maintain control, extends tire life, and enhances the overall safety and performance of your vehicle.

Signs of Vehicle Alignment Issues

If your vehicle is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to get your alignment checked:

• Steering Noises: Unusual sounds when turning the steering wheel could indicate misalignment.
• Tire Squealing: A loud, noticeable squealing noise when driving, especially when turning.
• Pulling to One Side: If your car pulls to the left or right when driving straight, alignment may be the issue.
• Crooked Steering Wheel: A crooked steering wheel when driving straight is often a sign of improper alignment.
• Uneven Tire Wear: If your tires are wearing down unevenly, it could be due to misalignment.

Identifying alignment issues early on can save you money and prevent further damage to your vehicle. Here’s how to stay ahead of the problem:

Steps to Ensure Proper Alignment

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Under- or over-inflated tires can cause issues that mimic alignment problems.
2. Follow Manufacturer’s Specifications: Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct alignment specifications.
3. Inspect Toe Settings and Camber: Misalignment often results in toe settings or camber that are out of spec. Checking these ensures your wheels are in the optimal position.
4. Perform Wheel Play Test: Jack up the car and check for any movement in the wheels. Loose components may indicate a misalignment.

How to Fix Wheel Alignment Issues

While DIY fixes might seem tempting, it’s best to leave alignment adjustments to professionals. However, if you’re determined to try it yourself, here’s a basic overview of the process:

• Locate the Tie Rod Ends: The tie rods connect the wheels to the steering system, and adjusting them can change the angle of the wheels.
• Loosen Lock Nuts: Before adjusting, loosen the lock nuts securing the tie rods.
• Make Adjustments: Adjust the tie rod sleeves or inner rods according to your car’s system. After adjustments, re-tighten the lock nuts and check the toe position.
• Test Drive: Always take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the alignment feels correct.

Trust AutoSolve for Professional Alignment Services

Although fixing your wheel alignment can be attempted at home, it’s often more effective and safer to leave it to the experts. AutoSolve’s experienced mechanics are equipped with the tools and knowledge to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you need a simple alignment check or a more complex adjustment, we ensure that your vehicle is aligned to factory specifications for optimal performance.

Contact AutoSolve today to schedule your wheel alignment service and ensure a safer, smoother ride every time you hit the road!