
Routine vehicle maintenance typically means an oil change and a tire rotation. However, less frequently, you will also need to have work done on your brakes, fluids, battery, engine, and other components. One type of maintenance your car will eventually need is a wheel alignment.
What's the easiest way to know when you are due for a wheel alignment? Continue to bring your vehicle into Hirlinger Motors for your routine oil changes roughly every 5,000 miles. Each time we change your oil and rotate your tires, we will also do a thorough inspection so we can recommend other maintenance you need now or will need soon. We advise on a wide range of maintenance, such as windshield wiper and spark plug replacement and, you guessed it, wheel alignment.
You can also watch out on your own for signs that it's time to have your wheel alignment checked. Here are some things to look for:
YOUR CAR PULLS TO ONE SIDE:Â
If, during normal highway driving, you notice that your vehicle is pulling to one side when your steering wheel is straight, you might be due for a wheel alignment. (Do note: It is difficult to test this on windy days, as wind can knock your vehicle around more easily than you think).
YOUR VEHICLE VIBRATES OR MAKES WEIRD NOISES:
These can indicate a wide range of issues. While it may not be wheel alignment, it certainly deserves a check either way.
YOUR STEERING WHEEL IS CROOKED:
If your steering wheel is not sitting straight, you may have an issue with wheel alignment.
If you suspect that you have wheel alignment issues, first check your tire pressure. If any of your tires are leaking or are low due to a change in temperature, it could be causing your car to drift. You can also inspect your tires for signs of wear. If your tires are properly inflated and in good health, bring your vehicle in for a wheel alignment check.