Wheel alignments are one of those things you don’t get around to taking care of until you notice something’s off. But actually, it can be a simple, but important part of taking care of your vehicle and has quite a bit to do with its overall performance.
Symptoms of misalignment:
Pulling one way or the other
Uneven tire wear
Vibration, especially in the steering wheel
Causes of misalignment:
Hitting something hard like a curb
An accident/wreck
Bad driving habits
Road conditions - a poorly maintained road with potholes, etc.
New tires
So is it really that big of a deal? Actually, yes. Poor alignment can affect your tires’ wear, performance and the overall life of your tires. It can also affect your vehicle handling and maneuverability. And believe it or not, it can also play a role in your fuel efficiency.
How often should I get an alignment?
Every vehicle has different requirements so you’ll want to check your manual for specifications. However, you should always get an alignment after getting new tires. Also, if you’re experiencing pulling or vibration as we mentioned above, it’s a good idea to get it checked out by a professional. At Sam’s, we recommend getting an alignment at least once a year.
What if I have a 4x4 vehicle or lifted vehicle?
Alignment ALWAYS needs to be done by a professional. However, lifted and 4x4 vehicles add an extra level of expertise that not every shop is accustomed to. At Sam's, these vehicles are our specialty!
Bottom line: Proper alignment is worth it. It extends the life of your tires, saves you money and ultimately makes for safer driving.
Bring your vehicle by and we’ll help determine if an alignment is necessary. Although we specialize in alignment for 4x4 and lifted vehicles, we service any and all vehicles.
Call us today to get scheduled. 918-446-5535