7 February 2017
 Categories: , Blog

The wheels are critical components in the vehicle, so you should perform regular maintenance for ideal functionality and general performance. One of the most critical standard practices with regard to wheel upkeep is wheel alignment. Basically, this is the process through which the angles of the wheels are adjusted. This alteration is designed to restore the position of the wheels to the original angles set by the car manufacturer. In general, you should perform regular wheel alignment according to the schedule recommended in the owner's manual. However, the vehicle can also fall out of alignment due to poor driving conditions. Here are the primary signs that indicate that your wheels might be misaligned.

Unusual Vehicle Drifting

When wheels are misaligned, the vehicle will not be able to travel straight with ease. Often, the automobile will tend to drift to one side, and you will feel the pull either to the right or left. Often, you will find that it is crucial for you apply some considerable pressure on the steering wheel to keep moving straight. If you are uncertain whether you are experiencing this problem, you can perform a quick test. Basically, when you are on a clear straightway road, you should release the wheel. Ensure your hands are just hovering above the wheel to avoid losing control. The vehicle should continue moving straight without your intervention. If not, you probably need an alignment.

Uneven Tread Wear

You should inspect the treads of your tyres periodically. This is because uneven wear of the treads is the most apparent symptom of wheel misalignment. In simple terms, when the wheels are out of proper alignment, one side of the tyre will have to support more weight than the other. For example, in camber misalignment, the wheel will not be perpendicular to the road surface when you look from the rear or front. It will tilt inwards or outwards, such that the inner or outer tyre surfaces will get worn faster. Therefore, keep an eye for the inconsistence on the tyre treads.

Steering Wheel Misalignment

When you are driving your vehicle straight ahead, the steering wheel should always line up straight. Simply, the manufacturer's logo should be perfectly horizontal. If this is no longer lining up, you probably have wheel alignment problems. In addition, look out for poor turn recovery and shaking of the steering wheel.

You should note that diagnosing wheel misalignment can be difficult because other auto malfunctions may cause the outlined problems. Therefore, consult an auto technician for proper assessment and restoration.