Description
An auto alignment, also known as a wheel alignment, is a maintenance procedure performed on a vehicle to adjust the angles of the wheels relative to each other and to the vehicle’s frame. The purpose of an auto-alignment is to ensure that the vehicle’s wheels are pointing straight ahead and are perpendicular to the ground, which helps to improve steering and handling, reduce tire wear, and improve fuel efficiency.
During an auto alignment, a qualified technician uses specialized equipment to measure the angles of the wheels and make adjustments as needed. The technician will typically adjust the camber, caster, and toe angles of the wheels, which can affect the vehicle’s steering and handling.
Camber refers to the angle of the wheel relative to the vertical axis, while caster refers to the angle of the steering axis relative to the vertical axis. Toe refers to the angle of the wheels relative to the centerline of the vehicle. Improper camber, caster, or toe angles can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency.
The frequency of auto alignments varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the driving conditions and habits of the driver. It is typically recommended to have an auto-alignment performed every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or whenever you notice uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or other signs of poor handling.
Overall, an auto-alignment is an important part of routine vehicle maintenance that can help to improve steering and handling, reduce tire wear, and improve fuel efficiency, making it an important investment in the long-term health and performance of your vehicle.
