Do you remember what it felt like the first time you were left with your own car? I remember just feeling so happy and free, and so I decided to try to help my own teenagers get a car of their own. However, after we found the right cars to buy, it was immediately clear that they needed to learn how to take care of their vehicles. In addition to talking with them about regular maintenance, I also started focusing with my kids to figure out a routine maintenance schedule that would help. They were great to work with, and now I can honestly say that their cars are beautiful inside and out.
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There are only a few events that typically require an immediate alignment service. These include hitting
While driving down the road, you may have noticed that your car tends to pull one way or the other, espec
There are only a few events that typically require an immediate alignment service. These include hitting potholes, running over curbs, and various other minor accidents that can impact your wheel geometry. Although you should always have your wheels aligned following any of these events, they aren't the only times you need to perform this essential job on your car.
No matter how carefully you drive, your wheel geometry will inevitably fall out of manufacturer specifications. This effect occurs due to normal wear and tear on suspension and steering components. As these parts age, the amount of play can increase, causing your wheel alignment to drift away from its ideal state.
Can You Minimize Alignment Drift?
While you can't avoid disrupting performing alignments altogether, you can help your car stay in proper alignment for longer. Even better, the practices that help keep your alignment in good shape will also extend the lifespan of your expensive steering and suspension components. Following these practices will help minimize your maintenance costs on the whole, in addition to helping your vehicle stay aligned.
Most importantly, avoid any sudden impacts. You should try to minimize the number of potholes you hit, even if they seem relatively shallow. Potholes, bumps, and even rough roads place additional wear on your car's suspension components. The faster these parts wear out, the more they'll impact your car's alignment.
It's also critical to check the condition of your tires regularly. While worn tires typically won't worsen your alignment, they can alert you to existing problems. Unusual wear patterns on your treads can indicate that your vehicle is already out of alignment, giving you a chance to repair the issue before it gets worse.
Should You Perform Alignments on a Regular Schedule?
Although alignments are critical maintenance jobs, the best time to perform one can be a matter of some debate. In general, you may need an alignment if you notice your vehicle pulling in one direction or you spot strange tire wear patterns. Even if you haven't recently hit any potholes or had other problems, your alignment may still be to blame.
Following a set schedule can also have advantages. For example, many people choose to perform an alignment when replacing their tires or brakes. By making wheel alignments a routine part of your vehicle's maintenance plan, you'll ensure your alignment can never fall too far out of place. This approach guarantees that your car's handling will always remain safe and predictable.
Keep these tips in mind when looking for local alignment services.
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