Wheel alignment is something that only some drivers think about, but it plays an essential role in your driving. Correct alignment allows you to drive easily and safely. If your wheels aren’t aligned, you risk damage to your car. When driving in Silver Spring, MD, we’d like you to know what alignment is and how it can help you.
Driving in Silver Spring, MD: What Is Wheel Alignment, and Why Is It Important?
What Is Alignment?
When your wheels are aligned, your wheels and axles all move in the same direction at the correct angle. When your wheels are correctly aligned, your steering wheel is centered. If your alignment is out, your wheels will pull to the left and right. When your car is new, the alignment is perfect. This situation can, unfortunately, change as time passes.
If you hit a pothole, accidentally bump a curb, or drive too fast over a speed bump, this can throw your alignment out. A blow to your wheels or suspension doesn’t have to be forceful, as even a slight bump can be sufficient to affect alignment.
How Do You Align Wheels?
We align your wheels using a special alignment machine. Devices are connected to the machine and all your wheels, and your car is lifted into the air. The alignment machine is computer controlled, which enables it to make exact measurements and adjustments. Your vehicle has a specific set of Volkswagen requirements that determine the alignment angles.
The goal of alignment is to ensure that all your wheels are perpendicular to the road and parallel. When they are set correctly, your steering wheel will be centered.
Why Is Alignment Important?
Correct alignment provides a slew of benefits for your car and helps to prevent additional wear or damage to the axles, suspension, and other components. These are some benefits you’ll receive when we align your wheels:
Increased Mileage
If your alignment is correct, your engine needs less power to move the wheels. As a consequence, your engine will use less fuel. You’ll notice this benefit when you have to make less frequent trips to the gas station.
Smoother Driving
If your wheels aren’t aligned, they can pull to the right or left. You constantly have to adjust your steering, which is distracting. Correct alignment also ensures that your wheels travel easier over the surface.
Extend Your Tire Life
Poor alignment affects your tires, as it increases wear on them. Correct alignment allows you more time before you need to consider tire replacement.
Call our service department today at DARCARS Volkswagen to get an alignment for your wheels in Silver Spring, MD. Our expert technicians will have your wheels correctly aligned in no time.
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