Tyre alignment, also known as wheel alignment, can help your tyres perform properly and help them last longer. It can also improve handling and keep your vehicle from pulling in one direction or vibrating strangely on the road. Alignment refers to an adjustment of a vehicle’s suspension – the system that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It is not an adjustment of the tyres or wheels themselves. The key to proper alignment is adjusting the angles of the tyres which affects how they make contact with the road.
There are a couple of ways to tell if your car needs a tyre alignment. If you’ve noticed one or more of these indicators, you should have your alignment checked by a licensed service technician immediately.
- Uneven tread wear
- Vehicle pulling to the left or right
- Your steering wheel is off centre when driving straight
- Steering wheel vibration
Re-balancing is essential for proper tyre care for the same reason as wheel alignment: prevention of premature tread. Having tyres aligned and balanced every 5,000 to 6,000 miles can help maximize their lifespan and overall performance.
