Wheel alignment how does it work

Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. Please turn it on so that you can experience the full capabilities of this site. Alignment assures your tires meet the road at the proper angle, your wheels are pointing straight and your tires are centered in the wheel wells. We recommend an alignment after the installation of new tires. This helps you get the most life from your new tires.

Wheel alignment checks are always advised after a significant impact or uneven tire wear is detected. Also, get a check annually, or twice yearly if you typically travel on rough roads. The wrong toe angle can go unnoticed and so can atypical tire wear. Mobile Newsletter chat subscribe. Prev NEXT. Under the Hood. Diagnosing Car Problems. Auto Body Problems. How do I know when my car needs to be realigned? A wheel alignment machine like this one is a key tool in restoring a suspension to its proper alignment.

Carrying Freight. What makes a digital car digital? What's new in synthetic oil technology? Camber is like toe but oriented on the vertical axis. However, the two are sometimes performed together. An alignment is about adjusting the suspension.

Balancing the wheels and tires, though, is purely about the weight of the wheels and tires. It is possible to perform a wheel alignment on your own, Hagerty reports, using some string, and, for extra help, toe-in plates.

Camber can also be adjusted on your own, Mobil reports, using an angle finder and a straight edge. Caster, though, involves adjusting chassis components and is best left to professional technicians. What is laser wheel alignment? What does laser wheel alignment check? How can I tell if my wheels need alignment? The most obvious symptoms of misaligned wheels are:. Why do wheels become misaligned? How much does laser wheel alignment cost? Most Popular. Top 10 best hybrid cars Best cars 22 Oct Tips and advice 4 Nov What is a DSG gearbox?