What You Need to Know About Wheel Alignment and When It’s Time To Get it Done
The wheel was a marvel discovery that truly changed the course of human history. Without it, it would have been not easy to build incredible structures, transport over long distances, increase efficiency in farming and agriculture, build cities, enhance human mobility and migration, and on and on. The concept of the wheel goes back thousands of years, and today we get into our cars and don’t take much notice of this invention that spearheaded the survival and modernization of man. Your vehicle’s driveability depends on the integrity of the engine, frame, and tires. So let’s talk about tires, stability, and wheel alignment.
From the Wheel to the Development of Modern Tires
As mentioned above, the wheel was a force to be reckoned with. Once ancient people discovered the practical uses and needs of this amazing invention, their lives became easier. They were able to perform more tasks and get more done. As they were able to work more, they were able to build and hunt more, thereby growing communities. In 150 BC, wheels with an iron frame were developed, then the water wheel (the power of hydraulics followed!), the wheelbarrow (making building things much less labor-intensive), the rotating wheel, and so on.
Then Came the Pneumatic Tire to Soften the Ride
As the automobile emerged, the tire soon followed. A veterinary surgeon named John Boyd—who wanted a smoother ride on his bicycle—invented a pneumatic (air-filled) tire. Carl Benz would soon try this concept on the wheels of his car and thus altered the history of transportation. The first pneumatic tires were difficult to replace and repair due to the fact that they were fastened to the rim. Michelin came up with the idea of a removable tire, and Goodyear would go on to develop the tubeless auto tire and the use of vulcanized rubber which was — for a time — the favored material.
Then came the tread tire, followed by the radial tire. This became the standard for most vehicles in America around the 1940s. The radial tire included steel belts for reinforcement and therefore increased traction, tread life, and mileage. However, the radial tire wasn’t perfect. It required some alterations done to suspension systems. So development continued on the concept of improving tread patterns and using other compounded blended materials. The materials needed to support that kind of air pressure, weight, and wear and tear need to be precise and resistant. Today natural and synthetic elastomers, carbon black and silica, metal and textile reinforcements, nylon, polyester, and more make up the modern car tire.
Signs that Indicate You Need a Wheel Alignment
A wheel alignment may sound like trivial maintenance. Still, it’s really at the center of ensuring the longevity of your tires, keeping you safe, and enhancing your vehicle’s performance and safety. Proper alignment ensures your tires meet the road at the right angle, wheels point straight, and other tires are centered. Your vehicle speaks to you in sounds and small gestures, and sometimes—if you listen closely— you may be able to hear the signs that your vehicle requires a four-wheel or front-wheel alignment.
You notice your car is pulling or drifting.
This is a sign that you can feel while driving. If you find yourself driving down the road and feel your car drifting or pulling towards one direction or another, you are likely due for a wheel alignment.
The steering wheel is acting funny and off-center.
Do you feel the steering wheel is slowly turning in one direction? If your front-end alignment is off, it can cause some pull on your steering wheel as well.
An awfully shaky or loose steering wheel.
The steering wheel will vibrate if the wheels get knocked out of alignment. On the other hand, if you feel the steering wheel is acting a little rebellious, this may also indicate that the wheels have fallen out of alignment.
It’s not often easy to eyeball whether your alignment is off. Experienced technicians might be able to tell by looking at tire wear, but it is precise work, and that precision goes a long way when you are driving. Imagine driving on a narrow road with a bad alignment. It can be a dangerous endeavor! If you’re buying a used car, consider getting an alignment check. This can tell a story and give you relevant information before you make the purchase.
Get a Wheel Alignment by Professional and Experienced Technicians
Here at Sergio Lewis Body Shop, we not only have the most experienced and trained professionals, but we also have the most sophisticated equipment available to ensure absolute precision. Our techs know cars in and out and are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your car suspension and alignment.
Is your car drifting to one side? Call us today and find out how we can improve your ride with a professional wheel alignment.
