After a long summer of road trips, high temperatures, and uneven pavement, your vehicle may be showing signs of misalignment. Wheel alignment is one of the most overlooked aspects of routine maintenance, yet it plays a critical role in vehicle safety, performance, and tire longevity. In this month’s blog post, we examine the importance of wheel alignment.
What is wheel misalignment?
As fall approaches and driving routines shift, now is the ideal time to ensure your wheels are properly aligned. Misalignment occurs when the angles of your vehicle’s wheels deviate from manufacturer specifications.
These angles—camber, caster, and toe—determine how the tires contact the road. Even slight deviations can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency.
Drivers may notice symptoms such as
- the vehicle pulling to one side,
- steering wheel vibration,
- or a crooked steering wheel when driving straight.
What causes wheel misalignment?
Several factors contribute to misalignment, especially during summer months. Potholes, curbs, and rough terrain can jolt suspension components out of alignment. High temperatures also accelerate wear on bushings and ball joints, which can affect wheel positioning. If your vehicle has been loaded heavily for travel or towing, the added strain may have shifted alignment angles as well.
What’s involved in a wheel alignment service?
A professional wheel alignment begins with a thorough inspection. Technicians use precision equipment to measure the current alignment angles of each wheel. These measurements are compared to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. If discrepancies are found, adjustments are made using specialized tools to bring each wheel back into proper alignment. The process may involve repositioning suspension components, tightening bolts, and recalibrating sensors in modern vehicles.
Proper alignment ensures that all four wheels are working together efficiently.
Key benefits of wheel alignment include:
- Reduced rolling resistance,
- improved steering response,
- and extended life of your tires.
It also enhances safety by maintaining consistent contact between the tires and the road surface, especially during braking and cornering.
At Shade Tree Garage, we recommend checking alignment at least once a year, or any time you notice unusual handling or tire wear. After a season of intense summer driving, a professional alignment can restore your vehicle’s performance and prevent costly repairs down the road. Schedule your alignment service today and drive into fall with confidence and control.