Unfortunately, wheel alignments are one of those maintenance tasks most car owners delay without considering the consequences. Some consumers may be looking for a reliable mechanic, while others may fear the car alignment cost.
Instead of putting it off, bring your vehicle to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville! We offer quality tire service and general auto repair at competitive prices.
Factors Affecting A Car Alignment Cost
Generally, the national average for a wheel alignment runs between $50 – $168. The precise car alignment cost depends on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Of course, the auto repair shop’s labor rates are also a factor.
For example, some cars have a solid rear wheel axle that doesn’t require aligning. Other vehicles need all tires aligned. Luxury cars, too, tend to be more expensive. Often, engineering designs on these cars can make alignments more difficult and time-consuming.
Road Conditions Affecting Tire Alignment
Unfortunately, many road surfaces aren’t entirely smooth. Potholes, rocks, gravel, or other road debris create uneven surfaces. As your car drives over bumps, the wheels jolt upward. The job of your suspension is to absorb this jolt of energy, giving you a smoother ride. However, absorbing energy takes its toll on these parts, and they begin to wear.
As joints, bushings, and other suspension parts wear, they can’t hold the tire in the correct position. At first, the change may be slight, but as time passes, your wheels become more angled. Of course, as tires change angles, they no longer grip the road properly and wear unevenly.
Most auto repair shops recommend a wheel alignment every 6,000 miles. However, driving over any uneven surface may require one sooner than this time frame. During an alignment, your technician will adjust the suspension to reposition the tires.
Some Signs You Need A Tire Alignment
Wheels angled incorrectly to the road will exhibit certain symptoms, letting you know you should have your alignment checked:
- Reduced Fuel Economy
As your tires tilt, the engine must work harder to battle increased rolling resistance. Your vehicle’s fuel efficiency may decrease by as much as 10%.
- Premature Tire Wear
When tires lean to one side, they don’t make proper contact with the road. With uneven weight distribution, certain parts of the tire bear excessive weight and friction. This causes premature wear and shortens the tire’s lifespan.
- Difficulty Steering
Even one incorrectly angled tire can cause your car to pull to one side. Additionally, you may need to offset your steering wheel to drive straight. Your steering wheel may even vibrate and shake.
- Squealing Tires
Misaligned tires can’t roll as the manufacturer intended. Thus, tires will squeal as the rubber scrubs off while trying to find traction during hard braking, cornering, or accelerating. You might even hear this sound during gentler turning if your tires are severely misaligned.
- Bumpy Ride
As tires become misaligned, they begin to wear unevenly. This uneven wear results in a bumpy tire surface, causing vibrations.
Other Necessary Tire Maintenance Tasks
Tires are responsible for helping your car move, stop, and steer. Yet, some car owners expect their tires to function properly without any maintenance. However, ignoring your tires can allow tire problems to develop.
Moreover, keeping your tires in good condition is a safety issue. Poorly performing wheels are responsible for many collisions. In 2023, 646 people died in tire-related accidents.
To ensure your tires grip the road correctly, perform these maintenance tasks once a month:
- Test air pressure
- Inspect the tread wear
- Check for tire damage
In addition, you’ll need 2 other important tire maintenance tasks performed at 5,000 to 7,000 miles:
Tire Maintenance FAQs
Tire blowouts are a serious occurrence and can lead to fatalities. Low tire pressure, damaged tires, or old tires are some common causes of blowouts. When you have a problem, bring your car to the tire experts, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Below, we answer a few questions about wheel alignments
How Long Does A Tire Alignment Take?
Similarly to the car alignment cost, your car’s make, model, and year will also affect the time commitment. Generally, a simple, straightforward tire alignment takes between 30-60 minutes.
However, your technician may uncover worn suspension parts when performing the alignment. Replacing these old parts can add several hours to the job.
Can I Drive A Car With Misaligned Tires?
Ultimately, driving with misaligned tires is always a bad idea. In addition to reduced fuel efficiency and uneven tread wear, incorrectly angled wheels will negatively affect your suspension.
Furthermore, it’s simply not safe to drive your vehicle, especially at high speeds. Misalignment affects your vehicle’s handling and braking performance, thereby increasing your risk of an accident.
How Does Xpress Lube Compare To Another Alignment Shop?
Undoubtedly, you’ll find lots of options, like Discount Tire or Jiffy Lube, when searching for a wheel alignment shop. However, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has earned its reputation as a quality auto care center. For over 25 years, we’ve been a trusted choice due to our commitment to you:
- High customer satisfaction rate
- Competitive prices
- Transparency in pricing
- Quality parts
- Clear communication
- Quick turnaround time
- Skilled technicians
- Modern facility with the latest diagnostic tools
- Convenient location
We’re an independently owned full-service auto repair shop with experience in foreign, domestic, gas, and diesel vehicles. Call us today at 336-904-6319 to make an appointment for your wheel alignment. Your safety depends on the condition of your tires.
