What Is Wheel Alignment & Why Is It Important?

Ever felt your car drifting to one side even when you're driving straight? This happens when your car’s wheels are not aligned properly. Proper wheel alignment isn't just about smoother rides; it's about staying safe, saving fuel, and avoiding costly repairs. 

Moreover, proper wheel alignment also improves driving stability, prolongs tire lifespan, and boosts your car's overall performance.

Let’s understand what wheel alignment really means, why it matters, and how it keeps your car running at its best.

Primary Angles In Wheel Alignment

1. Camber: Camber is the vertical angle of the tire. If the top portion of the tire inclines outward, it is called a positive camber. If it inclines inward, it is called a negative camber. A slight negative camber is usually recommended to maintain uniform tire wear.

2. Caster: Whenever a car is viewed from the side, the caster measures the forward and backward tilt of the steering axis. It influences steering and stability. If you maintain a proper caster alignment, your car stays on the track and will benefit from improved steering control.

3. Toe: Toe alignment is all about the tires' angle when viewed from above. Proper toe alignment makes sure tires stay parallel and eventually contributes to a practical driving experience.

Importance Of Wheel Alignment

1. Prolonged Tire Lifespan

If wheels are misaligned, they will lead to premature and inconsistent tire wear. Proper wheel alignment ensures uniform tire contact with the road. Consequently, it improves tread performance and tire lifespan. Moreover, it decreases the frequency of tire replacement and thus benefits a car owner with long-term savings on tire maintenance expenses.

Misaligned wheels can result in uneven tire wear and increase the odds of accidents, leading to insurance claims. A car insurance company evaluates the state of the car during claims. Ignoring wheel alignment checks can impact claim approval.

2. Improved Fuel Efficiency

Proper wheel alignment significantly boosts fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels mean that a car's engine will have to work harder to drift the vehicle forward. As a result, this phenomenon leads to increased fuel consumption. On the other hand, if the wheels are correctly aligned, it cuts back on the rolling resistance. Hence, cars will be able to run more efficiently and cause less pollution.

3. Enhanced Vehicle Handling And Safety

Misalignment leads to several issues, such as the car getting pulled to one side and the vibration of the wheels. Proper alignment of wheels solves these issues and contributes to a comfortable riding experience, improved handling, and enhanced steering control. Also, adequate wheel alignment promises stable vehicle control and thus decreases the odds of mishandling a car on the road.

Signs Your Vehicle Needs Wheel Alignment

1. Vehicle Pulling To One Side

If your heels are misaligned, you will notice that your car pulls to one side while driving. If the misalignment is substantial, it is an easily noticeable sign. If you need to continuously adjust your car's steering to maintain stability on the road, then your wheels are realigned.

2. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

One or more tires may have worn down faster than others. If you notice this sign, it means your car's wheels need proper alignment. Misaligned wheels can impose irregular pressure on tires, causing them to wear down more rapidly.

3. Off-Center Steering Wheel

Your car's steering wheel must be perfectly straight whenever you drive. If it stays off-center even though you are riding straight, it can be a sign of wheel misalignment.

4. Steering Wheel Vibrations

Another prominent sign of wheel misalignment is a vibrating steering wheel. If you notice a vibration in your steering wheel, make sure you drive the car only after fixing the wheel alignment.

5. Causes Of Misalignment

Correctly aligned tires lead to better handling and stability. Some common causes of wheel misalignment are discussed here:

6. Road Conditions

Wheel wear and tear happen due to rough road conditions. Curbs and potholes are common causes of wheel misalignment.

7. Wear And Tear Of Suspension Components

Uneven tire wear is a common cause of wheel misalignment. It reduces the tires' lifespan and demands premature replacement. The suspension components in cars, such as struts, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rods, and control arms, wear out over time, contributing to misaligned wheels.

Cost Of Wheel Alignment In India

1. Price Range

The costs may vary depending on the process complexity and the type of alignment, i.e., 2-wheel or 4-wheel alignment. Usually, a 2-wheel alignment costs INR 500 to 800, while a 4-wheel alignment costs INR 1000 to 1500.

2. Factors Influencing Cost

The cost of wheel alignment is higher in larger cars like SUVs. It can also go up if your car needs extensive repairs or adjustments in suspension components. Moreover, the price is higher in urban areas.

Wheel alignment helps one to drive the vehicle straight but it also considers several other key aspects. Essentially, it focuses on improving the life of car tires, fuel efficiency, steering control, and even tire wear. Regularly maintaining the correct alignment of wheels contributes to a safe and smooth riding experience. Fixing the misalignment in the wheel in a timely manner will help avoid hassles in the future.