Auto maintenance is more than just changing the car oil and checking the brakes. If your car’s alignment is off, driving without getting it corrected can increase your risk of blowouts and accidents. Below are several signs to alert you when it’s time to have your alignment corrected by your auto repair and service shop.

How to Tell When Your Car’s Alignment Is Off

1. Pulling to One Side

Your wheel alignment, when correct, will keep your car driving straight. If your wheels are misaligned, they’ll start to pull to one side or the other. The next time you’re driving down a straight, flat road, check to see where the car goes when you aren’t steering (only do this when it’s safe, and keep your hands hovered right above the steering wheel). If it consistently pulls to one side, your auto repair shop should check the alignment.

2. Crooked Steering Wheel

Your steering wheel should be centered when driving. If you have to turn it a little to keep your car driving straight, your alignment is off. Your steering wheel may also not return to the centered position after a turn, staying crooked unless you pull it straight.

3. Fast & Uneven Tire Wear

Being out of alignment will cause rapid and uneven wear on your tires. Check the tread on them and look for spots that have less tread than elsewhere on the tire. One tire may even be more worn than others. If you notice that you’re going through tires faster than usual, your alignment may be the cause.

4. Vibration or Shaking When Driving

When a car is out of alignment, the wheels will be pulling in opposite directions. The result will be vibrating feedback in your steering wheel, which may be more noticeable when braking. You may also experience shaking or vibrating throughout your car while driving it.

When you need an auto repair shop to realign your wheels, contact F.A.T.S. Service, a leading auto repair shop in Anchorage, AK. Since 1984, they’ve offered reliable work performed by rigorously-trained, ASE®-certified technicians. Their comprehensive services include alignments, brake inspections, and oil changes. They also offer high-quality parts from brands you can trust. See what this auto parts and service shop can do for you online, and call (907) 561-5721 to schedule your inspection today.