You got your European car for the handling and for the thrill of the experience. So, when something happens to hamper that experience, Jackson Auto Repair understands how frustrating that can be. Your wheels being out of alignment seem like a small thing, but that has a big impact on how it feels to drive your European car.
Wheel Alignment Is Crucial
Most car owners don’t think about wheel alignments all that often. There are other concerns when you own a car, including making sure that the engine is running well and that you’re not neglecting oil changes or the right gasoline to keep your European car purring. But wheel alignments are absolutely crucial, because being out of alignment can affect your car’s steering, suspension, and basically the overall handling.
Do You Need an Alignment Now?
So, if it’s been a while since you thought about wheel alignments at all, do you need one right now? Your car’s owner’s manual has a section that will break down how often you should schedule specific services, including wheel alignments. But if you’re experiencing any unusual handling issues, like the car pulling to one side as you’re driving or vibrations when you’re driving, it’s important to get the alignment checked.
When Should You Get Alignments?
Beyond when there’s an issue or when your car’s owner’s manual suggests an alignment, there are other times when you should get your car’s wheels aligned. If you’re replacing or repairing your suspension, the alignment is likely also off. Any time that you get new tires, you should also have the alignment checked. Also, if you end up in a wreck, even a small one, make sure it didn’t affect your car’s alignment.
What Causes Wheels to Go Out of Alignment?
It’s also important to understand what causes your car’s wheels to get out of alignment. Turns out, there’s a lot that affects alignment, and some of it you really can’t do much about. Accidents can do it, but so can driving your car on a regular basis. Every little bump that you encounter can affect alignment. But there are bigger causes, too, like hitting speed bumps or potholes too fast. Control what you can and you can help your wheels to stay in better alignment.
If it’s time to check the alignment in your European car, give us a call at Jackson Auto Repair in Jackson, TN. We’ve got the tools and the experience to inspect your car’s alignment and let you know what needs to happen next.