Wheel alignment is part of standard vehicle maintenance that consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the car maker’s specification. The purpose of these adjustments is maximum tyre life and vehicle-travel that is straight and true when driving along a straight and level road.

Wheel Alignment is often confused with Wheel Balancing. The two really have nothing to do with each other except for the fact that they affect ride and handling. If a wheel is out of balance, it will cause a vibration at highway speeds that can be felt in the steering wheel and/or the seat. If the alignment is out, it can cause excessive tyre wear and steering or tracking problems.

Improper alignment is a major cause of premature tyre wear. Over the years, a properly aligned vehicle can add thousands of miles to tyre life.

Have your car checked if you notice:

• Excessive or uneven tyre wear.
• Steering wheel pulls to the left or right.
• Feeling of looseness or wandering.
• Steering wheel is not centered when car is moving straight ahead.

How often should I have my car aligned?

Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation noted in your owner’s manual. But, as a general rule, have your vehicle’s tyres checked every 10,000 miles or at least once a year.