Wheel alignment is a mechanical adjustment of your car's suspension—the system that connects the vehicle to its wheels. It’s not about adjusting the tires or wheels themselves. The goal is to set the angles of the wheels to the manufacturer's specifications, ensuring they make optimal contact with the road. This corrects issues like uneven tire wear (e.g., the inside or outside of a tire wearing down faster) and prevents the car from pulling to one side.
Signs you need an alignment are straightforward. If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, the vehicle drifts left or right without input, or you notice unusual tire wear patterns, it's time for a check. A professional alignment typically involves adjusting three main angles:
| Alignment Angle | What It Means | Common Symptom if Incorrect | Typical Adjustment Cost (USD) |
|---|
| Camber | The inward or outward tilt of the wheel viewed from the front. | Uneven wear on one side of the tire's tread. | $10 - $50 per wheel |
| Toe | The extent to which the fronts of the wheels are turned in or out relative to the rear, viewed from above. | Feathering (smooth on one side, sharp on the other) on tire treads. | $10 - $50 per wheel |
| Caster | The angle of the steering axis viewed from the side. Affects steering stability and return-to-center. | Poor straight-line stability or difficult steering. | $10 - $50 per wheel |
While a professional service is recommended, you can perform a basic check at home. Drive on a flat, straight, and empty road. Briefly release the steering wheel and see if the car drifts significantly. Also, visually inspect your tires for uneven wear. For a true alignment, you need specialized equipment to measure the angles precisely. Most shops use laser or computer-guided systems for accuracy within tenths of a degree. The cost for a full four-wheel alignment usually ranges from $75 to $200, a worthwhile investment to extend tire life and ensure safe handling.
