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Wheel alignment is not an adjustment to the wheels themselves; it is an adjustment to the suspension of your vehicle. This functions to improve handling, steering vibration, life & performance of your tires. It involves fine-tuning the angles of the suspension system, so the wheels are pointed in the right direction. When all of your vehicle’s wheels are lined up exactly with each other, your wheels are in alignment. Misalignment can create uneven and unnecessary wear on your tires that can create a need for premature replacement or safety risks for you and your passengers. 

 

A wheel alignment should be done when tires are replaced, especially if the old tires wore prematurely or unevenly. Hitting a road hazard or the normal bumps and bounces of everyday driving can cause your vehicle’s wheels to be out of alignment. A proper wheel alignment will benefit your vehicle in many ways. Prevention is better than cure when it comes to wheel alignment, as you can save more by keeping on top of it. 

 

Increase your car’s fuel efficiency

 

When your wheels are working together exactly as they should, your vehicle will consume less fuel and energy. Misalignment can cause your wheels to start working against each other, making your engine have to push harder to get your vehicle to move. This will cause your engine to use up more gas in the process. Routine wheel alignment allows everything to work in harmony, so your engine doesn’t have to use so much fuel, increasing your gas mileage and fuel efficiency.

 

A smoother drive

 

If your wheels are out of alignment, your steering wheel will be cocked to one side when the vehicle is going straight, or your vehicle will consistently pull to one side. This will cause your shocks and struts to not work as well either, creating a bumpier ride. Proper alignment will create a safe and smooth driving experience. 

 

Avoid expensive auto repair services

 

Driving on wheels that are misaligned can cause other parts of your vehicle to be affected. Hitting potholes and speed bumps will cause your suspension system to take the impact and become damaged. If your tires aren’t evenly taking some of that impact, other components will start to break down sooner, which can leave you with expensive auto repair service that could have been avoided. Extensive damage and the need for repairs can be avoided with proper preventative maintenance and service. 

 

Extended tire life

 

Proper wheel alignment is essential for safe driving on the road and also to extend the life of your tires. Cars suffering from misalignment will experience rapid or irregular tire wear, and they will require replacement much sooner. When you align your tires, and they are working together, and they will take you a lot further. Uneven wear can seriously reduce a tire’s performance and can even put you at risk for a blowout. Don’t buy new tires before you need to, just keep up with your vehicle’s wheel alignment services. 

 

Most manufacturer recommends checking the wheel alignment every six months or 10,000 km, whichever occurs first. Ocean Area Tire can set your vehicle straight again with quality, expert wheel alignment in Berlin, MD, and Millsboro, Ocean View, DE.  Performing periodic wheel alignment will increase your tires’ lifespan, and help you avoid greater and costlier repairs. Contact Ocean Area Tire today to schedule an appointment for your next wheel alignment service.