When it comes to wheel alignments, your vehicle often gives clear warning signs before small issues become big problems. At Hawk Chevrolet of Joliet, we believe in helping our customers recognize these signals. Continue reading to learn some telltale signs that indicate it's time for a wheel alignment service.
What Is a Wheel Alignment?
Before diving into the warning signs your car needs an alignment, let's understand what a wheel alignment actually is.
A wheel alignment isn't about adjusting the wheels or tires themselves. Instead, it's about adjusting the angles of your wheels so they make proper contact with the road. This helps your vehicle drive straight, reduces tire wear, and improves gas mileage. Regular alignments can save you time, money, and help ensure safety on the road.
Common Signs Your Car Needs a Wheel Alignment
Rapid or Uneven Tire Wear
Take a look at your tires and check if they are wearing evenly. If you notice that the inside or outside edges of your tires are wearing faster than the rest, this is a classic sign your car needs a wheel alignment. Proper alignment helps distribute wear evenly across all tires, extending their lifespan.
Your Car Pulls to One Side of the Road
One of the most noticeable signs you need a wheel alignment is when your car pulls or drifts to one side of the road while driving. If you find yourself constantly steering in the opposite direction to return to the center of the road, it's time to schedule an alignment service.
Off-Center Steering Wheel
When driving straight, your steering wheel should be centered. If it's tilted to one side while driving on a level road, this is a clear sign of needing a wheel alignment. This misalignment affects your vehicle's handling and could lead to unsafe driving conditions.
Squealing Tires
Do your tires make noise when turning corners? Squealing tires might point to an alignment problem causing them to drag instead of roll smoothly during turns or other maneuvers.
Steering Wheel Vibration
If your steering wheel vibrates in your hands while driving, especially at higher speeds, your wheels might be out of alignment. This vibration occurs because your tires aren't working together properly.
Loose Steering Wheel
If your steering wheel feels loose or has excessive play, this could indicate alignment issues. When your wheels are properly aligned, your steering should feel responsive and precise. Loose steering not only suggests you need a wheel alignment but could also point to worn steering components that need attention.
When To Get a Wheel Alignment
Knowing when to ask about a wheel alignment is important for the health of your vehicle. Here are some situations when you should consider scheduling an alignment check:
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If you notice any of the signs mentioned above
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After hitting a major pothole or curb
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Following an accident, even a minor one
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When installing new tires or rotating tires
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During regular maintenance, approximately every 6,000-8,000 miles
Why Regular Wheel Alignments Matter
Proper wheel alignment isn't just about comfort— it's about safety and saving money. Poorly aligned wheels can:
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Decrease fuel efficiency
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Cause premature and expensive tire replacement or auto part repairs
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Create unsafe driving conditions
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Lead to suspension and steering problems
Trust Hawk Chevrolet of Joliet for Your Service Needs
At Hawk Chevrolet of Joliet, we make car maintenance easy with exceptional service. Our technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your vehicle gets the precise alignment it needs.
Don't wait until you see signs you need a wheel alignment. Being proactive about alignment service helps ensure many great years of driving with your vehicle. When you notice even subtle changes in how your car handles, it's worth having our team take a look.
Schedule your service appointment at our Service Center. At Hawk Chevrolet of Joliet, we're committed to keeping your vehicle on the straight and narrow!