To keep your car running as it should, you need to keep up with regular service tasks, such as oil changes and filter replacements. Another option that should be on that list is alignment service. In addition to improving safety, alignment maintenance will help ensure that your vehicle offers the very best performance.
Alignment 101
A car’s alignment has to do with the suspension system, which connects the vehicle to the wheels. Your tires or wheel don’t actually get adjusted during an alignment. Instead, the angles of the tires are corrected so they are properly configured when they contact the road.
There are three key areas of an alignment:
Camber
The camber is the angle of the tire when looking at it from the front of the vehicle. If it has too much inward or outward tilt – which could be caused by things like worn bearings or ball joints – it will need an adjustment.
Toe
The toe is the angle when looked at from above. Again, if the tire turns inward or outward too sharply, the alignment is out of whack.
Caster
The caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side. This is very important because it is instrumental to balancing steering.
Signs You Need an Alignment
There are some obvious signs that something is wrong with your car’s alignment. If, for example, the vehicle pulls to one side or the other, this is a red flag.
Another sign is if the steering wheel is off-center when you’re driving straight. Uneven wear on your tires could also be a strong indication.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, make an appointment with the service center at Tom Wood Honda near Muncie. Our experts will ensure your vehicle’s alignment is absolutely perfect.
