How often do the wheel alignment of car?

Many car owners may encounter a question when maintaining their vehicles: how often should a four-wheel alignment be done? Some people think that if the car is driving well, there's no need for a wheel alignment, while others believe that regular alignments are necessary to ensure safety. So, what is the purpose of a four-wheel alignment, and how often should it be done? Today, let's discuss this topic and hopefully provide some help.

What is wheel alignment?

In simple terms, wheel alignment is the adjustment of the angles of the four wheels to ensure they maintain the correct geometric position while driving. This adjustment ensures that the vehicle travels in a straight line, prevents uneven tire wear, and enhances driving stability and safety.

If there's an issue with the wheel alignment, common symptoms include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, and a crooked steering wheel. Ignoring these issues can not only shorten the life of the tires but also degrade the vehicle's handling and increase the risk of accidents.

When should you get a wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment is not a project that needs to be done frequently. Generally, you should consider getting a wheel alignment when the following situations occur:

1. Vehicle pulling: If you find that the car is involuntarily pulling to the left or right while driving on a flat road, it may be due to inaccurate wheel alignment.

2. Steering wheel not straight: If the steering wheel is straight but the car cannot maintain a straight line, this situation also requires checking the wheel alignment.

3. Uneven tire wear: If you notice uneven tire wear, such as one side being more worn than the other, it may indicate a problem with the wheel angles.

4. After a collision or accident: If the vehicle has hit a curb or been in a collision, the wheel angles may have changed, and it's time to check the wheel alignment.

5. After replacing chassis components: If you have replaced components of the steering or suspension systems, it's best to get a wheel alignment to ensure the wheel angles are correct.

How often should you get a wheel alignment?

If there are no obvious issues with the car, it is recommended to check the wheel alignment every 1-2 years or after driving 20,000 kilometers. This is a reasonable interval that can effectively prevent uneven tire wear and vehicle pulling issues.

Of course, if you often drive on bumpy roads or frequently hit curbs, you may need to check the wheel alignment more frequently. Additionally, if the vehicle shows clear symptoms such as pulling or a crooked steering wheel, it is recommended to get it checked immediately rather than waiting for the next maintenance.

What are the benefits of wheel alignment?

1. **Extends Tire Life**: Wheel alignment can prevent uneven tire wear, extending the life of the tires and reducing the frequency of tire replacements.

2. **Improves Driving Safety**: Correct tire angles allow the vehicle to travel more stably, reducing the likelihood of pulling to one side, which enhances driving safety.

3. **Saves Fuel**: When tire angles are correct, the vehicle experiences less rolling resistance, which can effectively reduce fuel consumption.

4. **Enhances Handling**: Wheel alignment can make the vehicle's steering more responsive and precise, improving the driving experience.

Wheel alignment is not a project that needs to be done frequently, but it has a very important impact on the safety of the vehicle and the life of the tires. Generally, it is appropriate to check it every 1-2 years or after driving 20,000 kilometers. Of course, if you notice that the vehicle is pulling to one side or the steering wheel is not straight, it is recommended to get a wheel alignment check as soon as possible. This can protect the tires and improve driving safety.