How do I know if I need an alignment?
The three common signs are a car that pulls to one side on a flat road, a steering wheel that sits crooked when you drive straight, and tires wearing faster on one edge.
- Pulls to one side: you keep correcting the wheel on a straight road.
- Uneven wear: the inner or outer edge is balding first.
- Crooked steering wheel: off-centre while driving straight.
Should I get an alignment with new tires?
It's worth considering, especially if your old tires wore unevenly. A misaligned car can shorten the life of a new set. Read more on why tires wear unevenly.
When else should I get one?
After a hard pothole or curb hit, after suspension or steering parts are replaced, or whenever one of the signs above appears. Your owner's manual may also list a check interval.
Can I get an alignment at The Tire Lab?
Call to confirm availability for your vehicle before you come in. Where it's available, a typical alignment takes about an hour, longer if a seized adjuster or worn part has to be dealt with first.
Whoever does the alignment, ask for the before-and-after readings so you see exactly what changed.
What does an alignment actually adjust?
- Toe
- Whether the wheels point straight ahead. The biggest cause of fast, feathered wear.
- Camber
- The inward or outward tilt of the wheel. Wears one edge of the tread.
- Caster
- The steering axis angle. Affects straight-line stability and how the wheel returns to centre.
Alignment or balancing?
If the car pulls or the steering wheel sits crooked, it's alignment. If the steering wheel shakes at highway speed, it's usually balance. Not sure? Describe it when you call. Tire balancing is done at the shop.
