There are many aspects of vehicle maintenance, and wheel alignments are just one of them. But why are they so important, especially for service vehicles? In the last ten years, the average age for U.S. vehicle fleets has increased by 17%, according to V12 Data. With cars getting older, wheel alignments are needed. Here are a few reasons why it is so important to not overlook that part of maintenance.

What Is a Wheel Alignment?

A wheel alignment adjusts the angle of suspension and will make sure that the steering wheel is centered. At the end of the alignment, all four wheels sit flat and parallel with the steering wheel. This ensures that your car doesn't drift to one side when you're not holding the steering wheel.

Save Gas

Vehicles with good wheel alignment get better gas mileage than vehicles that don't. Wheels out of alignment work harder and not optimally, which makes it harder to keep your vehicle going in a straight line. This negatively impacts fuel efficiency. By scheduling periodic wheel alignments, you are able to get better fuel mileage which contributes to less fuel cost.

Save Tires

When your vehicle is out of alignment, your tires will wear unevenly, causing them to need to be replaced more frequently than when your vehicle is aligned. Tires worn incorrectly will also put more stress on the steering and suspension of your car, which may cause expensive repairs as parts start to wear out. Periodic wheel alignments can ensure the natural wear and tear on your tires is even.

Save Discomfort

Having a properly aligned vehicle will save on wear and tear on your own body as you go down the road. If the car is pulling and harder to control, you'll have a rougher ride than when the tires are aligned. Smooth rides come from a well-serviced vehicle. This means the wheels are aligned and the steering wheel is centered. By having a smoother ride, you're able to enjoy trips more than when you're in a jarring vehicle.

If you need wheel alignment for your vehicle, we're here to help. Give The Auto Clinic Repair and Towing Inc. a call or come by to talk about your car and what maintenance may be needed to ensure a long and mechanically sound life.