When it comes to maintaining your car, most people think of regular oil changes, new tyres, or brake checks. But one aspect of vehicle health that often goes unnoticed is wheel alignment. Proper alignment is critical not just for your tyres, but for the overall safety, efficiency, and longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring it can lead to uneven wear, poor handling, and even higher fuel costs.
At AutoZone Manchester, we see plenty of cars that come in with avoidable issues caused by misaligned wheels. Here’s why car wheel alignment should be at the top of your car service checklist.
What Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of your vehicle’s suspension—the system that connects your car to its wheels. It ensures the wheels are set at the correct angles so they make proper contact with the road.
Alignment isn’t just about making your tyres “straight.” It involves three key measurements:
Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front.
Toe: The angle at which your tyres turn in or out when viewed from above.
Caster: The angle of the steering pivot, which affects stability and cornering.
When these measurements are out of spec, even by a small amount, your car’s handling and tyre performance can suffer.
Signs Your Wheels May Be Misaligned
Not sure if your car needs alignment? Here are some common warning signs:
Uneven tyre wear – One side of the tyre may wear down faster than the other.
Steering pulls to one side – You constantly have to correct your steering wheel to drive straight.
Vibrations in the steering wheel – Misaligned wheels can create noticeable feedback while driving.
Crooked steering wheel – If the wheel isn’t centred when driving straight, alignment may be off.
Reduced fuel efficiency – Misalignment creates extra drag, forcing your engine to work harder.
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it’s time to book a professional car service to get your alignment checked.
Why Wheel Alignment Is So Important
Extends Tyre Life
Tyres are one of the most expensive consumables on your car. Poor alignment causes uneven wear, meaning you’ll need to replace them much sooner than expected. By keeping your wheels properly aligned, you can get the full mileage out of your tyres, saving hundreds of pounds over time.
Improves Fuel Efficiency
When your wheels are misaligned, they don’t roll smoothly. This increases rolling resistance and forces your engine to burn more fuel. In Manchester, with its frequent stop-and-go traffic, even a small misalignment can cost you significantly more at the pump.
Enhances Safety
Alignment directly impacts how your car handles. If your steering pulls or feels unstable, it can make emergency manoeuvres more dangerous. Properly aligned wheels keep your car stable, predictable, and safe—especially in Manchester’s often wet and slippery driving conditions.
Reduces Stress on Suspension
Misaligned wheels don’t just wear tyres; they also put extra strain on your suspension and steering components. Over time, this can lead to premature failure of parts like ball joints, tie rods, and shocks. Fixing alignment issues early saves you from more costly repairs down the line.
Smoother Driving Experience
Driving should feel comfortable and controlled. Misalignment often causes pulling, vibrations, and noise, making every journey a hassle. With proper alignment, your car drives straight and feels smooth, making commuting or long trips far more enjoyable
What Causes Wheel Misalignment?
Misalignment can happen gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause. Some of the most common reasons include:
Potholes and rough roads: Manchester roads are no stranger to potholes, which can knock your wheels out of alignment instantly.
Hitting kerbs: Even a minor bump against a kerb while parking can alter your alignment.
Worn suspension parts: Over time, bushings and joints wear out, affecting alignment angles.
Accidents or impacts: Collisions, even minor ones, can disturb alignment settings.
Regular checks during your car service help catch misalignment before it becomes a major issue.
How Often Should You Check Wheel Alignment?
Most experts recommend having your alignment checked every 12 months or 12,000 miles—whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive on uneven roads, hit a pothole, or notice symptoms of misalignment, it’s worth having it inspected sooner.
At AutoZone Manchester, we include alignment checks as part of our routine car service packages, ensuring your vehicle stays in peak condition year-round.
Professional Wheel Alignment vs. DIY
While some car owners attempt home fixes, wheel alignment requires specialised equipment to measure angles with precision. Professional alignment machines use lasers and computerised systems to adjust your suspension with pinpoint accuracy.
At AutoZone Manchester, our technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your wheels are aligned exactly to your manufacturer’s specifications, giving you the confidence that your vehicle is road-ready.
Final Thoughts
Wheel alignment might not be as obvious as changing your oil or replacing your brakes, but it’s just as important for your vehicle’s health. From saving money on tyres and fuel to keeping your journeys safe and smooth, the benefits of alignment are too significant to ignore.
If you’ve noticed uneven tyre wear, pulling, or vibrations while driving, don’t put it off. Book your next car service at AutoZone Manchester today. Our expert team will ensure your wheels are aligned perfectly, keeping your car efficient, safe, and reliable on the road.