When considering a wheel alignment, the majority of drivers only considers the increased tread wear an alignment provides. Few persons realize the extent an alignment affects the safety of your vehicle. When all four tires are in alignment, it means that all four tires are squarely on the road for maximum contact and traction. Understanding what an alignment entails can assist you in understanding its importance to your safety. The alignment is divided into three major categories; camber, caster, and toe. If your vehicle needs an alignment, bring it in to Fifth Gear Automotive auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX for quality service you can rely on.
Common signs of improper wheel alignment include uneven tread wear on tires, steering pulling to one side, vibration at higher speeds, or an off center steering wheel. A periodic inspection and wheel alignment will reduce tire wear, increase gas mileage, and improve the handling of your vehicle.
If uneven tire wear is occurring on your vehicle tires, contact Fifth Gear Automotive for a suspension inspection and wheel alignment in our auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX.
Camber
When viewed from the front of the automobile, camber comprises the tilt of the wheels from the vertical. A positive camber results when the tire and wheel tilts outward away from the vehicle. When the tire and wheel tilt inward, towards the fender well, the camber is negative. Camber affects the directional control and can cause premature wear on the tires. An excess of negative camber will cause excessive wear on the inside of the tire; whereas an excess of positive camber causes excess wear on the outside of the tire. Both will cause premature wear on the suspension components.
In addition, unequal camber will cause the vehicle to pull to the side with the greatest positive camber. Furthermore, improper camber reduces the tire’s contact surface with the road, creating the hazard of skidding and loss of control due to the reduced area of traction. Monitor your tires for uneven wear, and if you detect the steering pulling to either side bring it in to Fifth Gear Automotive auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX for professional alignment.
Caster
Caster doesn’t affect tire wear but does affect the directional control of steering. Automobile manufacturers set the caster angle to provide a balance in high speed stability, steering effort and front end cornering. An excess of positive caster can require a greater effort to steer, while an excess of negative caster can cause the car to drift when driving straight forward.
Some vehicles have cross-caster, which causes it to drift slightly to the right while rolling. It’s a safety feature in the event a driver loses steering control, allowing the vehicle to drift toward the side of the road rather than into oncoming traffic. The best means to determine if your vehicle is set properly is with a wheel alignment in our auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX.
Toe
Toe is the angle of the tires when viewed from above, and whether they lean in or out when improperly aligned. Correct toe provides even tire wear and extends the tire service life. Improper toe wears the tires on the inner or outer edges. When the toe is properly set all four wheels roll parallel to each other, and you have straight line stability, corner entry and normal tire wear.
When to Schedule Alignment
An inspection should be provided when new tires are installed, and wheel alignment administered if required. Other times when an alignment will be required is after the replacement of steering or suspension components. In addition, if the vehicle has encountered severe impacts from road hazards or collisions, or impact with a curb, have your vehicle’s wheel alignment checked in our auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX. Our mechanics in Lewisville, TX can provide the service for you.
The manufacturer sets the guidelines for proper alignment. Setting these specifications outside of the manufacturer’s guidelines can result in dangerous conditions and premature wear of tires and suspension components. A safe driving experience relies on preventive care and maintenance of the vehicle, including wheel alignment. Properly maintained tires and alignment, improve the steering, braking, and traction of the vehicle. Fifth Gear Automotive offers professionally certified mechanics in Lewisville, TX for all your automotive needs in our auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX.
You can rely on Fifth Gear Automotive for reliable automotive repair, maintenance, and installation. Our certified mechanics take pride in providing the best automotive services available. Contact Fifth Gear Automotive auto repair shops in Lewisville, TX today to schedule wheel alignment or automotive repair service.
