Hi-Tech Repairs: Auto Servicing From The FrontlinesHi-Tech Repairs: Auto Servicing From The Frontlines


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Hi-Tech Repairs: Auto Servicing From The Frontlines

This is Joe and I am so excited that I have landed an auto mechanic apprenticeship. I've never wanted to do anything else. I grew up watching dad tinkering with his car on weekends and the desire to be around grease and oil has been in my veins ever since. Even though I've only been training for a year, I've learnt that car servicing and repairs are different from when I used to watch my dad. These days it is very hi-tech and involves researching online manuals when a less common car comes in. It has really made me aware that mechanics need to be well-qualified and dedicated to their job as carelessness can put you in serious danger. I want everyone to understand the complexities of auto servicing these days and this journal is the result. I wish the very best for you and your car. Take care.

Wheel Alignment: Here's What You Should Know

Taking your car for servicing regularly saves you not only from unforeseen roadside breakdowns but also from financial turmoil in the long run. Wheel alignment is one of the services that plays an important role in keeping you safe. Wheel alignment is an auto maintenance process involving the adjustment of the tyre angles to make them compatible with your manufacturer's specifications.

Signs Your Car Needs Wheel Alignment

The primary cause of wheel misalignment is bad roads. When your tyres are misaligned, the wheel assembly and suspension shift to the left or right. There's no indicator on your dash, but if you suspect that you have a wheel misalignment, here are some symptoms to check for:

Vehicle Pulls to One Side

Take your car out to a smooth road and pay attention to your steering wheel response. If you are struggling to keep the car straight, get the wheels checked out. 

Vibrating Steering Wheel

If you notice the steering wheel vibrating after hitting a bump or pothole, there is a likelihood that your wheel alignment could be off. However, it's worth noting that a vibrating steering wheel could be a symptom of other problems with your suspension components or brake rotors. Either way, see a mechanic immediately after you notice this. 

Uneven Tyre Wear

Due to the disagreement in wheel rotation, misaligned tyres will result in the uneven wearing of your tyres.

Squealing Tyres

Pay attention to your vehicle while driving, as displaced wheels will often give a squeaking or creaking sound. Sure, there could be other reasons for this, but bad wheel alignment is also a potential cause.

Benefits of Wheel Alignment

Often overlooked, wheel alignment plays a vital role in your car's performance. Here's why it's important:

Increases Fuel Efficiency

Misaligned tyres operate at reduced efficiency, increasing the engine's workload and resulting in more fuel consumption. Properly aligned wheels would help reduce your annual fuel bill immensely.

Smoothens Your Driving Experience

A bad alignment causes a left or right shift when driving, resulting in a jarring driving experience. As a result, you have to overcompensate while driving, which is tiring and dangerous. Getting wheel alignment smoothens your ride, giving you a better driving experience.

Improves Vehicle Safety

Misaligned wheels undermine the control and handling of your vehicle. A vibrating steering wheel and right or left drifts are a great danger while driving, and getting your wheels aligned will make you a whole lot safer.

Makes Tyres Last Longer

One of the most common symptoms of misaligned tyres is uneven tyre wear. In contrast, properly aligned wheels work in harmony and will take you more miles. The sooner you get your tyres aligned, the sooner you'll save on the cost of buying new tyres. 

To get the most out of your car and make it last longer, ensure that you get your tyres aligned and balanced regularly. Take your car to a car servicing business to get your car checked out today.