When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, there are many important tasks to keep in mind. From regular oil changes to tire rotations, it’s essential to stay on top of your car’s needs to ensure it runs smoothly and safely. One often-overlooked aspect of vehicle maintenance is wheel alignment. But should you get an alignment with new tires? In this article, we’ll explore the importance of wheel alignment, how it affects your vehicle’s performance, and whether or not it’s necessary when you get new tires.
What is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment refers to the process of adjusting the angle of your vehicle’s wheels to ensure they’re properly aligned with the road. This involves adjusting the camber, toe, and caster of each wheel to ensure they’re in the correct position. Proper wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and safety.
Why is Wheel Alignment Important?
Improved Handling: Proper wheel alignment ensures your vehicle’s tires are in the correct position, which improves handling and reduces the risk of skidding or losing control on the road. When your wheels are properly aligned, your vehicle will corner more smoothly and respond better to steering input.
Increased Tire Life: Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, which can lead to premature tire replacement. When your wheels are properly aligned, your tires will wear more evenly, extending their lifespan and saving you money in the long run.
Better Fuel Efficiency: Proper wheel alignment can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance. When your wheels are properly aligned, your vehicle will require less energy to move, which can lead to better gas mileage.
Reduced Brake Wear: Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle’s brakes to wear unevenly, which can lead to premature brake replacement. Proper wheel alignment ensures your brakes wear evenly, reducing the need for frequent replacements. (See Also: How to Read a Tire Date Code? Decode Your Tires)
When Should You Get an Alignment?
New Tires: When you get new tires, it’s a good idea to get an alignment to ensure your new tires are properly seated and aligned. This will help prevent uneven wear and extend the life of your new tires.
After an Accident: If you’ve been involved in an accident, it’s essential to get your vehicle’s wheels aligned to ensure they’re properly adjusted. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tire wear, reduced handling, and decreased fuel efficiency.
Mileage: Most vehicle manufacturers recommend getting an alignment check every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. If you’ve exceeded this mileage, it’s a good idea to get an alignment to ensure your wheels are properly adjusted.
What Happens if You Don’t Get an Alignment?
Uneven Tire Wear: If you don’t get an alignment, your tires will wear unevenly, which can lead to premature replacement. This can be costly and inconvenient, especially if you’re driving a long distance.
Reduced Handling: Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle to handle poorly, making it more difficult to steer and control. This can be especially dangerous on wet or slippery roads.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency (See Also: Does Higher Tire Pressure Increase Mpg? – The Truth Revealed)
Increased Brake Wear: Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle’s brakes to wear unevenly, which can lead to premature brake replacement. This can be costly and inconvenient, especially if you’re driving a long distance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wheel alignment is an essential aspect of vehicle maintenance that can improve your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. When you get new tires, it’s a good idea to get an alignment to ensure your new tires are properly seated and aligned. If you’ve exceeded your vehicle’s recommended mileage or have been involved in an accident, it’s essential to get an alignment to ensure your wheels are properly adjusted. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I get an alignment?
You should get an alignment every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. If you notice any signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or reduced handling, you should get an alignment as soon as possible.
Q: Can I get an alignment at home?
No, it’s not recommended to get an alignment at home. Wheel alignment requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure your vehicle’s wheels are properly adjusted. It’s best to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or tire shop for an alignment.
Q: Will an alignment affect my vehicle’s suspension?
No, an alignment will not affect your vehicle’s suspension. An alignment only adjusts the angle of your vehicle’s wheels to ensure they’re properly aligned with the road. If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s suspension, you should consult with a trusted mechanic or tire shop. (See Also: How to Put on a Back Bike Tire? – Easy Step-by-Step Guide)
Q: Can I get an alignment with worn-out tires?
No, it’s not recommended to get an alignment with worn-out tires. Worn-out tires can cause uneven tire wear, reduced handling, and decreased fuel efficiency. It’s best to replace your tires before getting an alignment to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely.
Q: How much does an alignment cost?
The cost of an alignment varies depending on your vehicle’s make and model, as well as the type of alignment you need. On average, an alignment can cost between $50 and $200. It’s best to consult with a trusted mechanic or tire shop for a more accurate estimate.