Wheel Alignment in
Merriam, KS

What Happens During a Tire Alignment?

Wheel Alignment Components

Your tires are aligned when the caster, camber, and toe angles of your tires are correctly aligned to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Caster

The caster angle is the forward or backward tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side of your vehicle. It plays a critical role in your car's steering, stability, and cornering performance.

When properly aligned, caster angles ensure maximum tire-to-road contact, promoting uniform tire wear patterns and delivering a noticeably smoother driving experience. Neglected caster misalignment typically results in irregular tire deterioration and compromised vehicle handling dynamics.

Camber

Camber refers to the angle of the tires in relation to the vertical axis of the car when viewed from the front or rear. There are two types of camber: positive and negative.

Positive camber means the top of the wheel is tilted outward, while negative camber indicates the top of the wheel is tilted inward. Proper camber alignment ensures that your tires maintain even contact with the road surface, which helps in maximizing tread life and improving traction.

Incorrect camber can lead to uneven tire wear, affecting the life of your tires and potentially causing handling issues. By ensuring the camber is correctly aligned, you help maintain proper wheel alignment, contributing to better overall handling, a

Toe

When the toe is accurately adjusted, all four tire and wheel assemblies will align in the same forward direction. The aim is to achieve a zero toe. Depending on the manufacturer's guidelines, a slightly positive or negative toe might be acceptable. A correctly aligned toe minimizes friction between your tires and the road, resulting in a smoother and safer ride.

Wheel Alignment Benefits

Proper wheel alignment offers several advantages that enhance your driving experience and vehicle performance:

• Improved fuel efficiency, leading to increased gas mileage
• More even tire wear, extending the life of your tires
• Enhanced overall handling and steering for a safer ride
• Smoother, more comfortable driving experience
• Reduced risk of uneven tread wear, which can prevent costly tire replacement
• Helps maintain proper contact between tires and the road, ensuring better traction and stability
• Contributes to the overall health of your vehicle, supporting optimal engine performance and suspension system
• Minimizes the chances of experiencing a flat or leaking tire, keeping you from being left stranded on the road

Keeping your wheels aligned ensures a safer and more enjoyable ride.

How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?

You'll want to get a wheel alignment every 6,000 to 10,000 miles or at least once a year. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads, experience uneven tire wear, or notice your vehicle pulling to one side, you may need to schedule a wheel alignment more often.