ALT-2 Front End Alignment
Wheel alignment is made up of three different measurements. First, the "toe," which would make your tires sit duck footed or pigeon toed on your vehicle. Second, is the "camber," which would make your tires appear to be leaning inwards or outwards on the axle. Third, is the "caster," which affects the return of the steering wheel after making a turn. Additionally, when alignment services are performed the steering wheel should be set straight.That being said, the abnormalities in your alignment probably wont be visible with the naked eye. The measurements involved are fractions of an inch, but even that small amount will affect the performance of your vehicle. Warning signs your alignment may be out are:1. Pulling to the left or right when you let go of the steering wheel on a straight and level road. This is not a surefire way to diagnose misalignment for several reasons and should not be seen as conclusive evidence. No road is perfectly level, most are sloped to the shoulder to prevent water gathering on the roads, and not all alignment problems cause pull.2. Tire wear. Given proper care your tires should wear smooth across. Most passenger tires start out with 10/32" tread and should be retired at 4/32". You can buy a gauge at any auto store for a few bucks. If the tires wear more on the inside, outside, or certain tires more than others it possible you have an alignment problem. Tire wear can also be caused by poor inflation, being out of balance, out of round, or not properly rotated, so this test is most effective on tires that have otherwise been properly maintained. Also, "feathering" of the tires could mean your alignment is out. This is when the tread wears choppy and make cause noise in the cab or a ride disturbance if it becomes severe.3. Go to a shop! The best way to tell if your alignment is out is to have a tech check it out for you. Some repair shops offer this service for free hoping you will buy. Tire shops often offer service packages when you buy tires. The bottom line here is, they can tell far more on their computer in the shop than you will ever know by looking at the car.Vibrating while driving at high speeds, vibrating while braking, center wear on tires, patch wear on tires, hopping after hitting bumps, are all NOT signs that your car is misaligned. These are caused by tires, brakes, suspension, or wheel bearings."So how did my car become misaligned?" you may ask. DRIVING! Vehicle manufacturers recommend you at least check your alignment every 6-12,000 miles. Vibrations from driving, hitting bumps or potholes (or curbs if you're talented like me), and vehicle load all loosen the suspension components that govern you alignment. When suspension parts are replaced you may also be required to align your vehicle.All that a basic alignment includes is measuring the degree of alignment and loosening and tightening bolts to point everything back in the right direction. Occasionally, additional parts and labor are needed, but your mechanic should be able to explain to you why each additional part is needed. Thank the manufacturer for the additional expense, some models can't be adjusted without new "special" bolts and such that the makers want you to buy from them. And, if you drive a BMW or similarly nice foreign made car you may need to go to the dealer for your alignment. Some foreign models require the car be weighted down with a full tank of gas to realign them.Every shop prices and warranties alignments differently so shop around. But, know whatever expense you incur at the shop you save money by maintaining proper alignment:1. Better fuel efficiency.2. Maximum tire life.3. Maintains your warranties on tires, parts, etc. in case you ever need them.Good luck on your alignment adventure!
