Fast Tire Wear: Why A Wheel Alignment Is Necessary

Do you consistently have to get new tires placed on your vehicle because they always wear out fast? Having to invest in new tires more than usual is a sign that your wheels are not aligned the right way. Discover below the things you should know about driving with improperly aligned wheels on a vehicle.

How Does a Bad Wheel Alignment Lead to Fast Tire Wear?

Improper wheel alignment on a vehicle can lead to some of the tires undergoing more weight and stress than others. The weight on your tires can make them lose a large amount of tread. If you notice that right before you replace the tires they begin making loud sounds when making turns, it is likely due to tread loss. Once tread loss occurs, the tires can also develop slick areas that are called bald spots. Driving with bald spots may cause you to lose control over your vehicle, or cause an unexpected tire blowout.

Another effect of a bad wheel alignment is the inability to drive a vehicle in a straight line. If you have to firmly hold the steering wheel to drive without the vehicle automatically moving into another lane, it is likely an alignment problem. You can end up in a bad collision if you don't get the wheels aligned and simply change the tires.

What Goes On During the Wheel Alignment Process?

The process for aligning (adjusting the suspension axles) your wheels will begin with the mechanic elevating your vehicle. Elevating the vehicle allows the mechanic to inspect all of the wheels by spinning them. Wheels that spin slower than they should or stop spinning too soon may be due to an alignment problem. The mechanic may have to align the set of back and front wheels, depending on what is observed during the inspection. However, sometimes it is necessary for only one set of wheels to be aligned.

The mechanic will also examine the steering wheel position during the wheel alignment process. The steering wheel is important because it is directly related to the suspension axles and how well your vehicle is able to remain straight when you are driving. Basically, the mechanic will have to make sure the steering wheel is situated straight up in the axle.  Take your vehicle to a mechanic so you won't risk getting into an accident by driving with wheels that are not properly aligned!

Contact a service like D Wells Automotive Service to learn more.


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