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What happens if your tires are out of alignment?
Steering Problems: When wheels become out of line, they aren’t facing in the directions necessary for optimal handling. This means that you may be trying to steer straight, and the vehicle is veering in a completely different direction. The more misaligned the wheels get, the less reliable your steering will become.
Is it safe to drive with tires out of alignment?
Driving a vehicle with improper wheel alignment can cause uneven wear on the tires. If the problem is not corrected soon enough, a vehicle’s tires could suffer premature wear and tear, making them unsafe. Tire drag from misaligned wheels could also result in the vehicle consuming more fuel.
Can tires be misaligned?
Wheels can become misaligned quickly. For instance, if you hit a curb, drive over a pothole, or strike something in the road, such as a rock, your tires can be knocked out of alignment. A minor accident with another car can also cause misalignment.
Do I need to realign my tires?
An alignment helps ensure that all four tires are correctly angled with each other and the road. If you don’t get an alignment with new tires, you may experience a rough ride and experience uneven tire wear earlier than normal—which can shorten your tires’ lifespan.
Can I do an alignment myself?
Can you do wheel alignment at home? You can perform the job at home with the right tools, though only if you have experience working on your own car. Otherwise it’s best done by a professional mechanic.
What causes tire misalignment?
What are the causes of misaligned wheels? There are three main causes of wheel misalignment, these are: Sudden jarring or heavy impact caused by hitting something, such as a pothole, bumping a curb, or a road accident. Worn parts caused by wear and tear.
How long does tire alignment take?
Under normal circumstances, a wheel alignment will take an average of one hour, whether it’s a two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicle. If there’s too much wear and tear or damage on the suspension system, steering bushing, track rod, or other parts, it’ll take a longer time as some components have to be replaced.
When should I get wheel alignment?
Typically, it is recommended to get your wheels aligned every 2 to 3 years. However, to ensure the optimal safety of your car, yourself and others around you, it is best to opt for a wheel alignment every time you go to change your oil of the vehicle.