What is the purpose of wheel alignment?
2 Answers
Wheel alignment ensures that the vehicle maintains stable straight-line driving without deviation, guaranteeing driving safety; it keeps the tires at the optimal angle with the vehicle body, preventing uneven tire wear; and it reduces wear between the tires and steering components during driving, extending tire lifespan. Below is relevant information: Wheel alignment refers to adjusting the relative positions and angles between the vehicle's four wheels, steering mechanism, and front and rear axles as specified by the manufacturer. If a car is driven for a long time on poor road conditions or if the tires or chassis are impacted, these relative positions can become misaligned, affecting the vehicle's performance and necessitating a wheel alignment.
Four-wheel alignment mainly ensures the wheel angles are precisely adjusted, keeping the car driving straight with proper steering. For instance, when I drive, if I notice the steering wheel is off-center or uneven tire wear, it's time for an alignment. By adjusting small components in the suspension system, it ensures all wheels rotate uniformly, preventing drifting or wobbling—critical for high-speed safety. Incorrect angles can lead to skidding in wet conditions and premature tire wear, costing extra money. I recommend checking it once after buying a new car, then every two years or 10,000 km, especially after replacing suspension parts. Overall, it maintains stability, extends tire life, and makes daily commutes smoother and safer.