Four Wheel Alignment

What is the Purpose of a Four-Wheel Alignment Service?

The purpose of a four-wheel alignment service, also known as all wheel alignment service, is to have all four wheels and the steering system aligned so the vehicle can go in straight light when the steering wheel is straight. With properly aligned wheels, your vehicle will get the best in fuel efficiency, handling, braking performance, and overall handling of the vehicle. A four-wheel alignment service is the most common type of alignment service as it is required for vehicles that are AWD(all-wheel-drive), 4WD (four-wheel-drive), rear-wheel-drive, front-wheel-drive, and other types of vehicle. One of the exceptions to this are vehicles that have a rigid rear axle, such as pickup trucks, that usually require a two-wheel alignment service.

Signs of Misaligned Wheels

The two most common signs of misaligned wheels include pulling the vehicle to one side and uneven tread wear on the tires. Other signs include tires making a squeaking noise or the steering wheel being crooked when driving straight. The only reliable way to determine if the wheels are misaligned is getting them inspected by a certified technician using computerized technology.

Service Interval for Alignment Service

Several factors determine the ideal service interval for wheel alignment. Typically, wheel alignment service is performed when it is required, however, wheel alignment inspection service should be done regularly. At Tate Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Frederick we have specialized tools that are used to determine if the wheels are misaligned. If you are getting new tires installed, we recommend a wheel alignment service as new tires tend to wear faster and any misalignment of the wheels might lead to faster uneven tread wear.