It's a term you might hear any time you visit an auto repair shop, but what is wheel alignment all about and why is it necessary? In the simplest of terms, it is making sure all four of your wheels and tires are rolling exactly in the same direction. Over time, wheels can get out of alignment and even the slightest misalignment can impact the performance and handling of your vehicle.
Here are the 5 biggest benefits of proper wheel alignment:
1. Improved Fuel Efficiency
Believe it or not, the alignment of your wheels has a major impact on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Properly aligned wheels help spread the power and torque evenly as you are driving and that means less wasted energy (and fuel).
2. Longer Tire Life
One easy way to tell if you might have an alignment issue is to look at your tires. If they are wearing out unevenly or the edges are thinning out more than the middles, there's a good chance your wheels are out of alignment. Proper wheel alignment, along with regular tire rotations, will provide more even wear and extend the lifespan of your tires.
3. Less Damage to Other Components
Beyond just the tires, many other vehicle components are affected by misaligned wheels. We're talking brakes, suspension, differentials, transmission and drivetrain elements. When things aren't lined up correctly, every system has to work harder and that means more damage, as well as more potential for expensive automotive repairs.
4. Better Handling
Vehicles with properly aligned wheels simply handle better, whether you are driving straight down a freeway or driving in the twisty, hilly streets of San Francisco. You will easily feel the difference as a driver.
5. Increased Safety
In addition to better handling, you will have better safety overall when your wheels are in complete alignment. And last we checked, a safer car is a good thing.
These are just some of the important benefits of wheel alignment. If you live in San Francisco and want to have your alignment checked out, bring your car into San Francisco Automotive Solutions. We use state-of-the-art equipment to test the alignment and then our experienced automotive technicians can make any adjustments and repairs that are needed to get your wheels back in proper alignment and get you back on the road.
Call San Francisco Automotive Solutions today at (415) 957-1170 or schedule your next service appointment online.