Wheel Alignments: What You Need to Know

Proper wheel alignment is crucial for your vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. At North Edmonton Kia, we want to ensure you understand what wheel alignments are, why they are important, and how to recognize when your vehicle needs one. Here’s everything you need to know about wheel alignments.

What is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels to ensure they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. This adjustment helps the vehicle drive straight and true, improving overall handling and comfort. The three primary angles involved in alignment are:

• Camber: The angle of the wheels when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Positive camber means the top of the tire is tilted outward, while negative camber means it’s tilted inward. Proper camber ensures even tire wear and good handling.
• Toe: The angle of the wheels when viewed from above. Toe-in means the front of the tires is closer together than the rear, while toe-out means the opposite. Correct toe alignment helps prevent tire wear and ensures straight driving.
• Castor: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. Positive castor helps with steering stability and returnability, while negative castor can lead to unstable handling.

Signs That Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment

Several symptoms can indicate that your vehicle’s alignment is off. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to have your alignment checked:

• Uneven Tire Wear: Tires that are wearing unevenly, especially on one edge, may indicate alignment issues.
• Steering Wheel Off-Center: If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, your alignment might be off.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your vehicle drifts or pulls to one side while driving, an alignment check is needed.
• Steering Wheel Vibration: Unusual vibrations in the steering wheel can signal alignment problems.

Why Proper Wheel Alignment is Important

Maintaining proper wheel alignment offers several benefits:

• Improved Handling: Proper alignment ensures that your vehicle handles correctly and responds to steering inputs accurately.
• Increased Tire Life: Correct alignment reduces uneven tire wear, extending the life of your tires and saving you money in the long run.
• Better Fuel Efficiency: Proper alignment helps your vehicle run more efficiently, potentially improving fuel economy.
• Enhanced Safety: Properly aligned wheels ensure that your vehicle tracks straight and handles predictably, reducing the risk of accidents.

How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?

It’s generally recommended to have your wheel alignment checked at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. However, certain driving conditions or events may necessitate more frequent checks:

• After Hitting a Pothole or Curb: If you’ve recently hit a large pothole or curb, it’s wise to check your alignment.
• When Replacing Tires: It’s a good practice to align your wheels when installing new tires to ensure optimal performance.
• When Noticed Handling Issues: If you experience any handling problems or unusual tire wear, have your alignment checked sooner.

Schedule Your Wheel Alignment at North Edmonton Kia

At North Edmonton Kia, we recommend getting a wheel alignment check at least once a year, or sooner if you notice any of the signs mentioned above. Our expert technicians use the latest alignment equipment to ensure your vehicle’s wheels are adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. We’re located at 13634 St Albert Trail NW, Edmonton, AB T5L 4P3. Whether you’re in Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, or the surrounding areas, we’re here to provide you with reliable and professional wheel alignment services.