Under What Circumstances Is a Wheel Alignment Necessary?
2 Answers
Circumstances that necessitate a wheel alignment include: 1. Severe tire tread wear; 2. Wheel wobbling; 3. Vehicle pulling to one side; 4. After tire replacement; 5. Heavy steering wheel. Wheel alignment is based on the four-wheel parameters of the vehicle, adjusted to ensure optimal driving performance and reliability. The installation of the steering wheels, steering knuckles, and front axle, as well as the rear axle, has specific relative positions—this precise installation is referred to as wheel alignment. Front wheel alignment includes caster, camber, toe-out, and toe-in; rear wheel alignment involves camber and individual rear wheel toe-in.
Having driven for over twenty years, I've found that wheel alignment is needed quite often. After installing new tires or shock absorbers, an immediate alignment is a must; otherwise, the car tends to pull to one side, leading to uneven tire wear and unnecessary expenses in the long run. If the steering wheel is consistently off-center or the vehicle drifts to one side, it's a clear signal—something's wrong with the suspension, and an inspection is urgent. Don’t delay after hitting potholes or minor accidents, as misalignment can compromise handling and safety. Also, abnormal tread wear on tires is a red flag for alignment issues. I typically schedule an alignment every 10,000 kilometers or every two years as preventive maintenance, which significantly extends the car’s lifespan and even saves on fuel costs. Remember, acting promptly can spare you major repairs and driving hazards.
