Why Regular Wheel Alignments Are Important for Your Vehicle
Driving should feel smooth, controlled, and predictable—but if your car starts pulling to one side, your steering wheel vibrates, or your tires wear out unevenly, it may be time for a wheel alignment. At Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA, we help local drivers stay safe and extend the life of their vehicles with professional alignment services tailored to your car’s exact specifications.
In this guide, we’ll explore why wheel alignments matter, what causes misalignment, and how routine alignment checks can save you money, improve handling, and enhance your overall driving experience.
What Is a Wheel Alignment?
A wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your wheels—known as camber, caster, and toe—so they sit precisely as the manufacturer intended. Proper alignment ensures that all four tires point in the right direction, contact the road evenly, and support safe, efficient driving.
At Moore’s Garage, we use advanced alignment technology to accurately measure and fine-tune these angles, restoring your vehicle’s alignment to factory standards.
How Misalignment Happens
Misalignment doesn’t always result from a major event—it often happens gradually. However, there are several common causes:
- Potholes and road hazards: Hitting a pothole or curb can immediately throw your wheels out of alignment.
- Worn suspension components: As shocks, struts, and bushings wear out, they can affect wheel angles.
- Accidents or frame damage: Even minor fender benders can shift alignment.
- Aggressive driving habits: Taking turns too fast or rough terrain can contribute over time.
Our team in Orangevale frequently sees alignment issues go undiagnosed until they result in costly tire wear or steering problems. That’s why we recommend making alignment checks part of your regular vehicle maintenance.
Signs You May Need a Wheel Alignment
Here are a few red flags to look out for:
- Vehicle pulls to one side while driving on a straight road
- Steering wheel isn’t centered when driving straight
- Steering feels loose or unstable
- Tires show uneven wear patterns
- You feel vibrations or shimmying in the steering wheel
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s time to stop by Moore’s Garage for a thorough alignment inspection.
Why Wheel Alignments Are So Important
1. Extend Tire Life
Misaligned wheels cause uneven tread wear, which shortens the life of your tires. Regular alignments help ensure even contact with the road, meaning your tires last longer and perform better.
2. Improve Fuel Efficiency
When your wheels aren’t aligned, your car has to work harder to move forward, increasing rolling resistance and reducing fuel economy. A proper alignment helps you go farther on each tank.
3. Enhance Vehicle Safety
Precise alignment improves steering response, braking stability, and traction. You’ll enjoy more control during sudden maneuvers, in wet weather, and when driving at higher speeds.
4. Reduce Wear on Suspension Components
Poor alignment puts stress on your suspension and steering systems. Over time, this can lead to premature wear on components like tie rods, ball joints, and control arms.
5. Better Driving Comfort
Nobody wants to fight the steering wheel or feel the car drift off course. Alignments ensure your vehicle tracks straight and feels stable on the road.
How Often Should You Get an Alignment?
At Moore’s Garage, we generally recommend a wheel alignment every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. But if you drive frequently on rough roads, notice symptoms of misalignment, or recently had suspension work done, you may need it more often.
We also suggest checking your alignment:
- After hitting a pothole or curb
- After replacing tires or suspension parts
- If your steering feels different or less responsive
What to Expect During a Wheel Alignment at Moore’s Garage
Our team in Orangevale uses computerized alignment tools to measure and adjust all necessary angles to manufacturer specifications. A typical wheel alignment includes:
- Inspecting tires, suspension, and steering components
- Measuring camber, caster, and toe angles
- Adjusting each wheel for proper alignment
- Test-driving the vehicle to confirm smooth handling
We take the time to explain our findings, show you before-and-after readings, and ensure your vehicle leaves our shop with optimal alignment.
The Moore’s Garage Difference
At Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA, we’ve built our reputation on trustworthy service and high-quality automotive care. Our technicians don’t just perform alignments—we look at the full picture, identifying underlying causes and making sure your vehicle drives exactly how it should.
We understand how important your vehicle is to your daily life, and we’re here to help you protect it with preventative services that deliver long-term value.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overlook Alignment
Wheel alignment might not seem like a big deal—until your tires wear out early, your fuel economy drops, or your car feels unsafe on the road. By staying on top of your alignment schedule, you protect your investment and enjoy better performance every time you drive.
Let Moore’s Garage in Orangevale, CA keep your wheels pointed in the right direction. We’re here to help you drive straighter, smoother, and safer—mile after mile.
