Americans drive approximately 13,000 miles per year. However, rough roads and potholes can take a toll on tires, moving them out of alignment. Moreover, incorrectly positioned wheels affect fuel efficiency and safety. When you need a tire alignment near you, visit Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
The Necessity Of A Tire Alignment Near Me
Often, maintaining tires is not on most car owners’ priority lists. Yet, approximately 35% of yearly car accidents occur due to worn tires. Of course, normal driving will wear tires. However, failing to perform a wheel alignment will degrade your tires even more quickly.
Generally, automakers design the suspension to hold the wheels parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. However, hitting potholes and curbs causes tires to move out of their original placement. For example, when your tire reacts to a bump in the road, springs compress and release energy. During each cycle, the spring loses some durability and life.
Once the tires move from their original factory position, they’ll drag instead of rolling across the road surface. Then, your engine will need to work harder to move the car, reducing efficiency. Plus, with tires improperly positioned, you’ll experience increased tire wear.
Signs You Need A Tire Alignment
Typically, most experts recommend a wheel alignment every 2 years or 30,000 miles. You can check your owner’s manual for specifics on the proper time frame for your car. However, certain conditions necessitate performing this maintenance more often:
- Driving on rough roads
- Off roading
- Hitting a pothole or curb
- A fender bender accident
If you neglect your alignment, you may notice some issues with your automobile:
- Veering to one side while driving straight
- Uneven tire wear
- Your steering wheel is off center
- Tires squeal when turning
- The vehicle vibrates
- Reduced fuel efficiency
Although these problems may seem insignificant, they can lead to increased repairs and safety issues. For example, uneven tire wear leads to decreased lifespan and the risk of a blowout. Additionally, misaligned wheels will affect your steering, creating challenging situations in adverse weather conditions or emergencies.
Other Recommended Tire Services: Balancing And Rotation
Two other important tire servicing tasks are necessary for maintaining tires: balancing and rotating. Generally, many experts recommend balancing and rotating tires every 5,000-7,000 miles. Together with alignment, these tire services will extend the life of your wheels.
- Tire Balance
Uneven weight distribution across the circumference of the tire will cause irregular rotations. Usually, unbalanced tires can occur from simple everyday driving. Ignoring it can cause uneven wear, difficulty with handling, and suspension issues.
- Tire Rotation
Tires wear differently depending on their position on the vehicle. For example, front tires wear more on the edges due to turning, while back tires wear in the middle. By rotating tires, you maximize the tread life.
FAQs About Xpress Lube And Tire Services
When you suspect a problem with your vehicle’s tires, don’t wait to bring it to an auto repair shop. Moreover, when searching for reliable tire alignment near me, trust Xpress Lube. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about tires and our business. If you have others, call us at 336-904-6319, and one of our friendly staff members will help you.
Do I Need A 2- Or 4-Wheel Alignment?
Some modern vehicles have solid, fixed rear axles. These include heavy-duty trucks and certain SUVs. This axle type provides better traction and stability when hauling heavy loads and off-roading. You’ll only need a front wheel alignment if you have one of these vehicle types.
However, most modern cars have independent suspensions. These systems allow each tire to move separately from the others, isolating the remaining wheels from any impacts. If you have a vehicle with independent suspension, you need to realign all the tires to benefit from the service.
How Much Does A Wheel Alignment Cost?
Generally, expect to pay between $50 and $168 for a tire alignment. Of course, the cost depends on the make and model of your automobile. For example, vehicles with fixed, solid rear axles will only need a front wheel alignment and thus cost less.
Also, expect to pay more if you own a luxury car. Often, these have engineering designs that make the alignment more time-consuming. Additionally, the auto repair shop may need specialized equipment to angle the tires properly.
Will I Need To Replace Any Suspension Parts?
Generally, suspension problems and tire alignment issues exhibit the same symptoms. Thus, correctly diagnosing the issue requires a qualified mechanic. When you’re experiencing a problem, discuss the situation with your technician.
What Services Do You Provide?
Today’s modern automobiles have complicated systems. Finding a competent technician to correctly diagnose your car problem can be challenging. However, one locally owned business has provided quality services for over 25 years. Xpress Lube has 4 ASE-certified mechanics as well as technically trained support staff to fix your vehicle properly and quickly.
We offer comprehensive automobile services that address all your vehicle’s needs:
- Balancing and tire rotation
- Tire repair and replacement
- Brake repair and replacement
- Air conditioning repair
- Fuel system repair
- Exhaust system repairs
- Electrical diagnostics
- Oil change
- Cooling systems
- State safety and emissions inspections
- Suspensions
- Car washing and detailing
- And more!
For tire alignment near me and much more, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Why not make an appointment right now? Call us at 336-904-6319 or use our online form.
