Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting your wheels so they point straight and sit at the correct angle. When it's right, you get a smoother, vibration-free ride, better fuel economy and noticeably longer tyre life. When it's out, your tyres pay for it.
The four symptoms
- The car pulls to one side when you're driving straight.
- Your steering wheel isn't centred when the wheels are pointing straight ahead.
- Your tyres are wearing unevenly — often more on one edge than the other.
- The steering feels loose or vague.
What a correct alignment gives you back
- Improved steering control
- Better fuel efficiency
- Longer tyre life
- Less wear on suspension components
How often to have it checked
As a rule, every 10,000 km or at least once a year. Add an extra check after you've hit a pothole or kerb, and any time you have new tyres fitted — there's little point putting fresh rubber on a car that will chew it unevenly. Most alignments take 30 to 60 minutes.
