What Causes Car Alignment Problems?

Experienced drivers understand why it’s important to maintain the correct wheel alignment on their vehicles. They know that they will experience better traction and grip on the road in most situations, while also helping the tread on their tires to wear evenly at a normal rate.  It also means that all four tires are moving at the same speed and pointed in the same direction as the steering wheel.   

So what causes car alignment problems?  Some of the most common causes include:

1. Hitting Curbs and Potholes: Impact with curbs or potholes can jolt the suspension system and cause alignment issues.
2. Wear and Tear: Over time, parts of the suspension and steering systems can wear out, leading to misalignment.
3. Accidents: Collisions, even minor ones, can affect the alignment of a vehicle.
4. Poor Maintenance: Failing to maintain the vehicle properly, such as not changing worn-out components, can lead to alignment issues.
5. Modifications: Installing aftermarket components or making modifications to the suspension can sometimes result in improper alignment if not done properly.
6. Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear can both cause and be a symptom of alignment problems. Worn-out tires can replace the way a car sits and drives.
7. Driving styles: Aggressive driving, such as taking turns too quickly or driving over speed bumps too fast, can affect alignment.
8. Poor Road Conditions: Frequently driving on rough or uneven roads can lead to alignment problems over time.

A word to the wise:  Have the wheel alignment inspected about 6 to 12 months—more often if you have been driving constantly on bumpy roads if the tire tread is wearing unevenly, if the rubber is looking worn, or if you are struggling with the steering and control of your vehicle. 

Wondering about what causes car alignment problems?  Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about wheel alignment and to request an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.

What Causes Car Alignment Problems?

Experienced drivers understand why it’s important to maintain the proper wheel alignment on their vehicles. They know that they will experience better traction and grip on the road in most situations, while also helping the tread on their tires to wear evenly at a normal rate. It means that your tires are rolling down the road together at the same speed and direction.  

So what causes car alignment problems? The situations listed below are common situations for many drivers; any of them can cause your car to lose its wheel alignment:

1. Poor road conditions. Driving over rough terrain, roads filled with potholes and ruts, running over a curb, going too fast over a speed bump, or hitting other obstacles in the road.
2. Worn-out suspension parts. As shocks become worn and loose, your car is no longer stable but may bounce excessively when you hit bumps in the road.
3. Vehicle modifications. After-market modifications to vehicles, such as lifting the height or adjusting the suspension, make a wheel alignment service compulsory.
4. New Tires.  Installing new tires may require a different alignment than your old tires.
5. Auto Accident.  Whether a minor fender-bender or a major crash, the wheel alignment can be thrown off.

Here is why it’s so important to maintain the correct wheel alignment:  

• Your tires will last longer, wearing more evenly all around, 
• Improve fuel efficiency to help save money at the pump, 
• Damage to shocks and car axles is unlikely, and 
• Your trip will be more relaxed and smooth. 

A word to the wise:  Have the wheel alignment inspected about 6 to 12 months—more often if you have been driving consistently on bumpy roads if the tire tread is wearing unevenly, if the rubber is looking worn, or if you’re struggling with the steering and control of your vehicle. 

Still worried about what causes car alignment problems?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive for more information about wheel alignment and to request an appointment. Our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.