Getting your wheels aligned is one of those essential car maintenance tasks that often flies under the radar. Yet, it plays a huge role in how smoothly your car drives, how long your tyres last, and even how safe you are on the road. Whether you’ve just bought a new car or have been driving yours for years, understanding when and why your vehicle needs a wheel alignment can make all the difference.

But how do you know when it’s time for an alignment, or if your car even needs one?

What is a Wheel Alignment?

A wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. The goal is to ensure the wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground, creating optimal contact between the tyres and the road.

When your wheels are properly aligned, your car handles better, drives straight, and avoids issues like uneven tire wear. Misalignment can cause your vehicle to pull to one side or your steering wheel to feel off-centre. Over time, this can lead to more significant issues like reduced fuel efficiency, premature tire wear, and increased stress on your suspension.

Proper alignment is also very important for your vehicle’s overall safety. It helps maintain control of the car, especially during braking and cornering, and can extend the life of your tyres, saving you money on replacements.

How Much Does a Car Wheel Alignment Cost?

The cost of a wheel alignment can vary depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle you have and where you’re getting the service done. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for a front-end alignment, while a full four-wheel alignment may cost between $100 and $200. If you’re looking for a more accurate price, reach out to us for a free estimate!

Front-end alignments typically cost less because they only involve adjusting the two front wheels, while a four-wheel alignment, necessary for many vehicles with all-wheel or four-wheel drive, requires adjusting all four wheels.

Do New Cars Need a Wheel Alignment?

While most new cars are aligned correctly before they leave the factory, it’s possible for alignment issues to develop even in brand-new vehicles. During transportation from the manufacturer to the dealership, cars may experience bumps, rough handling, or uneven surfaces that may affect the alignment. Even hitting a pothole or curb shortly after purchasing a car can knock the wheels out of alignment!

It’s a good idea to have your alignment checked as part of the vehicle’s first scheduled maintenance, or if you notice signs like the steering wheel being off-centre or the car pulling to one side.

How Often Does a Car Need a Wheel Alignment?

Generally, a wheel alignment should be done every 6 months, or approximately every 10,000 kilometres, depending on your driving habits and the type of terrain you usually drive on. Regular alignment checks are especially important if you frequently drive on rough roads, hit potholes, or notice any unusual wear on your tyres.

Are There Any Clear Signs That I Need a Wheel Alignment?

There are several telltale signs that your car may need a wheel alignment. One of the most common indicators is uneven tire wear—if you notice that the tread on one side of your tyres is wearing down faster than the other, it’s likely due to misalignment.

Another sign is if your steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight, or if your vehicle pulls to one side even though you’re trying to go straight.

If you notice any of these indicators, it’s important to address wheel alignment issues before they lead to more serious and costly repairs

How Much Time Will a Wheel Alignment Take?

A typical wheel alignment takes about 30 minutes to an hour. During this time, your wheels are carefully adjusted to ensure everything lines up perfectly according to your vehicle’s specifications. The technicians take their time to get it right, making sure your car handles smoothly, and your tyres wear evenly.

Do Front-Wheel Drive Cars Need a Four-Wheel Alignment?

Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars primarily rely on their front wheels for both propulsion and steering, so often only a front-end alignment is necessary. However, FWD vehicles tend to experience increased tire wear on the front wheels due to this reliance, making it important to have the wheel alignment checked regularly to ensure even tire wear and prolong the life of your tyres.

In some cases, a four-wheel alignment may be recommended for FWD vehicles, especially if the rear suspension has adjustable components or if there’s any damage to the rear axle or wheels. A four-wheel alignment can significantly improve overall handling, stability, and tire wear by ensuring that the rear wheels are properly aligned in relation to the front.

Do All-Wheel Drive Cars Need a Four-Wheel Alignment?

Yes, all-wheel drive (AWD) cars typically require a four-wheel alignment. Since AWD vehicles distribute power to all four wheels, it’s essential that each wheel is aligned correctly to maintain optimal performance and safety. Misaligned wheels can affect how power is transferred to the road, leading to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and increased fuel consumption.

Trust Kate Presnell Bodyworks for Your Wheel Alignment Needs

Keeping your wheels properly aligned is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, safety, and tire longevity. Whether you’re experiencing signs of misalignment or simply want to keep your car in peak condition, a regular wheel alignment can save you money and improve your driving experience.

At Kate Presnell Bodyworks, we specialise in professional wheel alignment services, ensuring your vehicle is aligned to manufacturer specifications. Whether you drive a front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or any other type of vehicle, we have the expertise to handle it all.

Contact Kate Presnell Bodyworks today to schedule your wheel alignment and experience the difference that expert care can make for your vehicle.