The Importance of Wheel Alignment

By Thomas R. Buff

Shake and shimmy, weave and drift. Sounds like fun if you are at an amusement park. But these terms are also common to what it feels like if your vehicle has steering or suspension problems that are affecting your cars wheel alignment. Not fun and certainly not safe. The meaning of the term “wheel alignment” can be misleading. Rather than referring only to your vehicle’s wheels, wheel alignment, which is sometimes called tracking, is also related to the suspension and its components. Wheel alignment is all about angles and steering geometry. When the angles are incorrect from worn parts or other causes the angles will change and in turn cause drivability and tire wear problems.

What are the symptoms of misalignment or improper tracking?

• Tires that wear unevenly or on one side.

• A crooked or uncenterd steering wheel

• A vibration from the steering wheel or front end.

• The steering wheel does not return easily after a turn

• The vehicle wanders or drifts to either side.

• A shake or shimmy after hitting a bump.

If your vehicle is doing any or all of the above, it can be from a variety of causes. The main causes of these symptoms are:

Worn parts caused by wear and tear. Steering and suspension parts such as tie rods, ball joints, struts or shocks just to name a few, will cause the front and/or rear alignment geometry to be incorrect. This can create a dangerous and unsafe condition.

Hitting a pothole. This is a very common reason for alignment problems. If parts become bent or shifted due to a sudden impact, the steering geometry will be out of whack. Potholes and curbs are known for bending and twisting suspension, tire and steering components.

Changes in ride height. Any change caused by worn shocks or struts will cause the vehicle to sag. This will change the height of the vehicle. In turn the wheels will be forced to change their position thus altering the steering geometry.

Now we know the most common symptoms and causes of improper wheel alignment. So why is wheel alignment so important? First of all and most important is the safety factors. Proper wheel alignment creates improved steering and handling. Improper steering angles will create a variety of symptoms mentioned earlier that will have your car weaving all over the road. All four wheels must be aligned properly, if not it will cause unsafe driving conditions.

Misaligned wheels will also cause a greater resistance on the road. This will decrease your fuel economy. Studies have shown that a four-wheel alignment can increase your fuel mileage by 20 percent. Irregular tire wear can also lead to accidents caused by blowouts that can cause accidents.

Prevention is the key. If your car is displaying any of the symptoms described, you may need a four-wheel alignment performed by a certified technician. The cost for an alignment is far less than a set of tires. But more importantly, a proper wheel alignment will keep your car on the road safely where it belongs. Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to all! Stay safe and Happy Motoring!