We’ll Set Your Wheels Straight
What We Do During a Wheel Alignment Service
While most drivers know that a wheel alignment is an essential automotive maintenance service, many don’t fully understand what an alignment service includes.
Thankfully, the ASE-certified technicians at Silver Lake Auto & Tire Center in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, are here to help.
Here’s everything that happens when we perform a car alignment.
What a Wheel Alignment Service Involves
A vehicle alignment is a comprehensive process that includes many steps. The main goal is to properly align your car’s suspension so that all four wheels are driving in the same direction on the road.
Our technicians will raise your vehicle on a rack during the alignment. We will then attach clamp-like devices to each of the wheels. This equipment is linked to a computer to help us make accurate measurements. We’ll also take this opportunity to closely inspect your suspension system to ensure no components are damaged or broken.
A wheel alignment requires us to square your car’s axles (the rod that rotates the wheel) and wheels so that they are all moving in the same direction. Our technicians will adjust to different suspension angles – called camber, caster, thrust, and toe – that influences wheel movement and positioning. We will also make sure your steering wheel is centered.
What Type of Alignment Should I Get?
We specialize in a few different types of wheel alignments. The kind of alignment you’ll need will depend on your vehicle’s unique suspension. For instance, a four-wheel alignment is required by all-wheel drive cars or front-wheel drive vehicles with adjustable or independent rear suspensions. If your car isn’t all-wheel or four-wheel drive, you’ll need a front-end alignment.
How Do I Know If I Need a Vehicle Alignment?
There are a few red flags to watch out for that indicate your car needs an alignment. These include:
- Uneven tire wear
- Car pulling to one side
- A vibrating steering wheel
If you notice any of these issues, contact the auto repair experts at Silver Lake Auto & Tire Center in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, by calling (262) 567-0284 today. We’ll see you soon!