Expert Wheel Alignment in Sugar Land, Katy, & Spring, TX
When was the last time you checked the alignment of your wheels? Proper wheel alignment is more than just a smooth drive; it’s about safety, fuel efficiency, and the longevity of your tires.
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It doesn’t take a big — or even visible — difference for your car to be out of alignment. When misalignment occurs, it often involves an off-measurement of the caster, camber, or toe.
Caster is the angle of the steering axis viewed from the side; camber is the inward/outward tilt of the tire viewed from the front; toe is the inward/outward tilt of the tire viewed from above. Something only needs to be off by a couple of degrees to make a big difference in the way your vehicle handles.
Roads aren’t always perfect; we run over potholes, accidentally hit curbs, and take on whatever the road throws our way. Sudden impacts such as these can lead to alignment problems. However, your vehicle can go out of alignment over time due to wear and tear, leading to the cracking or loosening of parts.
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There are several telltale signs your vehicle needs a wheel alignment. Some symptoms to watch out for include:
Uneven wear on your tires: Check your tires for wear patterns regularly. If you notice uneven tire wear, make an appointment to have your car’s wheels aligned.
Sharp pulling in one direction: Another sign you need a wheel alignment is if your vehicle is pulling sharply to one side when you drive. However, this could also be caused by underinflated tires. Either way, it’s a good idea to have an expert inspect your wheels.
Vibrating: If you notice your steering wheel is vibrating while you’re on the road, it could mean your car needs its wheels aligned. The vibration may be caused by your tires pulling in opposite directions.
A crooked steering wheel: Is your steering wheel crooked? Pay close attention and check to see if you’re driving with an off-centered steering wheel. This could be another sign you require a wheel alignment.
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Wheel alignments are essential because:
By efficiently rotating your tires, it will help to maintain even tread. This results in a smoother ride.
Imbalanced tires can lead to numerous safety hazards, including steering wheel vibration. Be safe and secure while out and about by getting your wheels professionally aligned.
Not only does a wheel alignment extend the life of your tires, but it will also extend the life of your car by protecting its suspension.
To enjoy all of the benefits of a wheel alignment, schedule an appointment at First Tire & Automotive now.
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Wheel Alignment Specialists
Why Wheel Alignment Matters
Your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems work in harmony to keep your ride smooth and your tires wearing evenly. If your wheels are misaligned, even just a little, it can throw off that balance. This can lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even reduced gas mileage.
Tire Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment
It’s essential to differentiate between tire balancing and wheel alignment. While both are crucial for a smooth ride, they serve different purposes. Tire balancing corrects weight imbalances in your tire-wheel sets. On the other hand, wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your vehicle’s wheels to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Steering Adjustment: Feel the Difference
Have you ever felt your car pulling to one side or the steering wheel vibrating? This could be a sign of alignment issues. At First Tire & Automotive, our experts ensure your steering adjustment is spot on, so you’re always in control.
Steering Angle Sensor Calibration: A Crucial Step
Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), one of which relies on the steering angle sensor. This sensor detects the direction in which you’re turning the steering wheel. Proper calibration of this sensor is pivotal, especially after a wheel alignment service.
The steering angle sensor provides data to various vehicle systems like the anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control system. If it’s out of calibration, these systems may not function optimally. After an alignment, if the steering angle sensor isn’t calibrated correctly, it might think the vehicle is drifting or sliding, which could activate these systems unnecessarily or inappropriately.
After getting a wheel alignment, it’s recommended to have the steering angle sensor calibrated to ensure that all parts of your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems are working in perfect harmony. This ensures that you not only have a smooth and safe ride but also that your vehicle’s advanced safety features function as intended.
Why Choose First Tire & Automotive?
Apart from our expertise in wheel alignment and tire wear and safety, we stand behind our work. Every wheel alignment service with us comes with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty. That’s our commitment to quality and your peace of mind.
Whether you’ve noticed signs of misalignment or just want a routine check, our teams in Katy, Spring, and Sugar Land is here to help. Drive in for professional service that puts you and your vehicle first. Stay safe, drive smoothly, and always count on First Tire & Automotive for your wheel alignment needs.