Aside from safety, correct wheel alignment ensures your car’s optimal performance. A misaligned set of wheels is likely to reduce tire life, damage your suspension, and reduce fuel economy. Before calling an auto repair technician, here’s how to know when you have poor alignment of your wheels.

When Does My Car Need Wheel Alignment?

1. Uneven Tread Wear

It doesn’t take much for wheel alignment to go off-kilter. Sometimes, a bump at the curb or trip over a pothole is enough to kick it out of alignment. Look at your tires and compare the tread wear pattern on each. Uneven patterns, such as feathering or excessive wear on one side, is usually an indication that your wheels are misaligned.

2. Pulling to One Side

While driving, pay attention to sudden or slight pulling to one side. If you're sure that your tires are correctly inflated before hitting the road, drifting to another direction can mean you’re out of alignment. If you ignore the problem, you will need to constantly veer the steering wheel in the right direction, consuming more fuel in the process. 

3. Off-Center Steering Wheel

Look closely at your steering wheel. Does it appear crooked, even if you’re driving on a straight line? If the emblem at the steering wheel’s center is off by just a few degrees, your tires need to be inspected. 

4. Vibrations

Look out for strange sensations like vibrations coming from your steering wheel. While it can be attributed to an issue with tire balancing, vibrations are also a sign that the tires are misaligned. This issue happens when the tires are starting to pull in different directions. 

If you’re experiencing the telltale signs of wheel misalignment, have your vehicle checked at Fantastik Auto Repair in Honolulu, HI. With expert workmanship and an experienced team, this auto repair shop has what you need to get your car back in working order. Their team specializes in computer diagnostics and troubleshooting to address a variety of common repair problems. Call (808) 842-3777 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about their services.