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Get it straight: Wheel alignment tips

It's a good idea to get an alignment done whenever you purchase new car tires for your car.

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You're all too familiar with the obstacle course of bumps, potholes and curbs you encounter in day-to-day driving. Eventually those things take a toll on your car's steering system.

You'll know it's time to take your care to a service center for alignment when:

Your car pulls noticeably to one side
Navigating normal turns becomes slightly difficult
You have difficulty maintaining a straight course

Sometimes, however, the impact of poor wheel alignment on your car is gradual. You may not notice a change in your car's handling until it has become severe. For this reason, it's also important to check the treads on your front tires periodically. If your steering is out of alignment, your tires will develop uneven wear patterns.

There are several benefits to proper wheel alignment:

Wheel alignment increases fuel efficiency: In addition to reducing abnormal tire wear, maintaining wheel alignment can increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency and make your car generally easier to handle. You should have your steering aligned once a year, regardless of symptoms. Check Kudzu.com to find a qualified repair shop to align your wheels.
Align your wheels to protect your investment: It's also a good idea to get an alignment done whenever you purchase new tires for your car, if for no other reason than to be sure your wheels are in proper alignment so you'll protect your tires.

When you're deciding on a repair service, keep in mind that any wheel alignment service you choose should have:

High-tech, modern equipment and clean, organized facilities — an indication of a well-run and competent operation.
Signs and stickers indicating advanced training as well as certification and affiliation with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and the American Automobile Association.
Payment, warranty, and refund policies clearly posted in the office or reception area.

Also, be sure to tell the service writer the symptoms you've noticed so the technician will have a point of reference when performing your alignment.


Comments	\| 1-4 of 4 comments \| \| Show All
Tabascola on 05.31.2008 at 05:52 PM EDT
Wheel alignments should be done on a regular basis of at least once a year. More often if yor driving habits tend to be a bit more harsh than the average driver.In most cases vehicles all 4 wheels should be checked for worn ,loose, broken or damaged parts. Then a 4-wheel alignment check should be done.If vehicle is out of alignment an adjustment should be performed. Most repair shops that offer tires will offer wheel alignments. The better maintained your vehicle is the better service it will offer to you.

nols98 on 07.27.2007 at 11:13 AM EDT
Not that I know of. I believe you have to pay for it every time you get new tires.

moreknowledge on 07.10.2007 at 08:01 PM EDT
This was very helpful! I'm trying to learn more about car maintenance and cars in general. Thank you!!!

husker on 05.04.2007 at 05:57 PM EDT
I used to get a free front end alignment check to determine if an alignment is within spec. That was metered when driving onto the ramp. Is this still done as by the shops today?

	\| 1-4 of 4 comments \| \| Show All

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Get it straight: Wheel alignment tips

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