Why A Wheel Alignment Is So Important

Significance
Rotating your tires is important due to tire wear. Tires work differently, depending on their location on your vehicle. Rotating them on a regular basis will even the wear, prolonging their lifespan. A criss-cross pattern is used when moving the tires to their new position allowing the tires to wear evenly.

Time Frame
Every vehicle is different, but most manufacturers recommend that you rotate your tires every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Check with your owner’s manual for information specific to your vehicle.

Considerations
Rotating tires is a simple procedure that can be done at your local Tire Pros.

Effects
Right-side tires have more exposure to curbs and other road hazards; moving them to the other side of the vehicle prevents excessive outside wear. Front tires will show more wear if you are driving a front-drive vehicle. It is important to visually inspect your tires on a regular basis. Obvious signs of wear need immediate attention.

Benefits
Rotating your tires on a timely basis will help keep maintenance cost down on your vehicle. Evenly wearing through your tires will prolong their life and lessen the frequency of having to invest in a new set. Tires that are maintained well will keep you safer while driving.

Be sure to visit your local Tire Pros and save $70 on a set of four Michelin passenger or light truck tires. The promotion runs from July 8 – August 9, 1010.

1. The first number (205 in this example) is a three-digit number, which refers to the overall width of the tire, in millimeters.
2. The second number (55) refers to the aspect ratio, which is the relationship between the tire’s height and its width. In this example, the sidewall’s height is about 55% of the tire’s width.
3. The letter following the aspect ratio is usually an “R,” standing for “radial.”
4. The next number indicates the diameter of the wheel rim on which the tire will fit (16 inches, in this example).
5. The final number and letter represent the load index and speed rating. The load index is an assigned number ranging from 0 to 279, corresponding with the load-carrying capacity of the tire; that is, how much weight it is certified to carry at maximum inflation pressure. The rating can be matched against a load index chart to determine corresponding maximum weights.
6. The speed rating tells you the top speed at which the tire can operate. Speed ratings were developed to control the safe performance of tires at standardized speeds. A letter from A to Z symbolizes a tire’s certified speed rating. To maintain the speed capability of a vehicle, use replacement tires with ratings equal to or greater than those of the original tires.

It is important to note that markings do not always appear exactly as they do in this example, as tires can be certified under a variety of designations.

Emergency situations can happen at any time. That’s why it’s important for you and your family to know what to do when these situations arise. Knowing how to handle your automobile during these times can put your mind at ease and help keep your family safe on the road.

Tire Blowouts
A tire blowout, which is characterized by the loud noise of your tire bursting and the sudden loss of air, can happen without warning. Taking the right actions can help you safely maintain control of your vehicle and maneuver your car to a safe stop. Here are some tips to help you make the right decisions:

Do slightly accelerate. This will keep the vehicle momentum constant and will compensate for the pulling of the vehicle towards the flat tire.

Do keep the steering wheel held straight and firm.

Do put on your hazard lights. Once the vehicle is under control, slow down and when safe, move to the side of the road out of traffic.

Don’t panic.

Don’t step on the brake.

Don’t abruptly release your foot from the accelerator.

Don’t jerk or overcorrect the steering.

When Your Brakes Fail
No one wants to think about their brakes failing while driving. It can be a scary situation. Having the knowledge to handle this type of emergency and keep your family safe in the process is priceless.

What to do:

• Take your foot off the gas pedal.
• Quickly pump your brakes to try to use any residual pressure in the brakes.
• Shift into a lower gear, release the clutch pedal (for manual transmissions) and apply the emergency brake.
• If your automobile has an automatic transmission, simply apply the emergency brake.
• Try to ease the car to the side of the road safely or look for something to rub against. A fence, guardrail or bushes would work. If possible, select something that will give way when you hit against it to reduce damage to you and the car.

Click here to find a Tire Pros near you.

Tire Pros participation in the National Tire Safety Week awareness program highlights the importance of proper air pressure, tire alignment, rotation and tread wear. Our expert tire technicians are here to advise and educate customers about tire safety practices related to the many brands and categories of tires we offer our customers.

Stop by your Local Tire Pros during National Tire Safety Week and stay informed. To locate a Tire Pros by you, click here.

It takes only a small misalignment to create problems with your vehicle, which is why proper wheel alignment is very important. Simply put, all of components that make your vehicle go straight are called alignment. Misalignment can be caused by many factors including merely driving your vehicle. Potholes can be common culprits. A sizable pothole can bump your suspension out of the precisely calculated set of measurements that dictate proper wheel alignment.

Why is wheel alignment important?

Improper wheel alignment can effect driving performance as well as cost you money. Total alignment sets all four wheels positioned straight ahead and parallel. The following are benefits of wheel alignment:

o Improves gas mileage – In the recent economy and a year of outrageous gas prices, everyone is looking to better their gas mileage to save money. By having your vehicle aligned properly, it decreases any resistance while rolling which increases your gas mileage. It is also important to make sure that your tires are properly inflated as this will help gas mileage as well.

o Reduces tire wear – Premature tire wear can be costly. One of the signs of wheel misalignment is excessive or uneven tire wear. If your vehicle is not aligned properly, your tires can show wear more quickly due to their not rolling straight and being dragged in the wrong direction. You will have to replace them more often, costing you more. Proper alignment can save you money in the long run.

o Improves the handling of your vehicle – Other signs of improper alignment pertain to the handling of our vehicle. These signs can be if your steering wheel pulls to the left or right, if it is not centered when driving straight ahead or if it vibrates or shimmies. Steering wheel vibration can also indicate tire wear or if they have not been inflated properly. While driving, your vehicle can also have a feeling of looseness or wandering. All of these signs can be corrected with total alignment which can absorb any road shock and provide a smoother ride.

o Improves safety – Proper wheel alignment can help you drive more safely by improving steering and tracking problems. The improved handling and control of your vehicle can help you prevent or avoid accidents.

Why is four-wheel alignment recommended?

Simply put, your front wheels “steer” or drive the vehicle while the rear wheels “direct” the vehicle. Four-wheel alignment solves handling problems by referencing all four wheels to a common centerline.

Yearly maintenance is recommended.

Regular vehicle maintenance is recommended for optimal operation of your vehicle and its safety. It is important that you follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations listed in your owner’s manual, however as a general rule your wheel alignment and tire check up should be scheduled every 10,000 miles or at least once per year.

Often a suspension system inspection can be included as a part of this regular maintenance. This inspection can allow your Tire Pros ASE Certified Technician to spot potential problems or worn parts now before they become costly problems later.

Protect your tire investment and visit your local Tire Pros for an alignment check. You’ll be glad you did.