Wheels, suspension, and tyres are all an integral part of a vehicle – and keeping them in the best condition possible is vital for road safety.
This guide looks at what work needs to be carried out, and how much a wheel alignment should cost.
What is wheel alignment?
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension – not the wheel itself – so that tyres wear evenly, improve the vehicle’s handling, and maximise fuel efficiency.
A wheel alignment will change the angles of the tyres, which affect how they make contact with the road.
Having an inward or outward tilt of the tyre when viewed from the front of the vehicle – known as incorrect camber – will damage a tyre.
Also, the angle at which the tyres turn when viewed from above can show an incorrect toe alignment. This also damages the tyres and can cause steering issues.
Regular wheel alignment is essential for maintaining optimal driving performance and safety for all road users.
It is something all car owners should be aware of when carrying out maintenance on their vehicle.
How to do a wheel alignment
A wheel alignment should be carried out by an experience mechanic and at a trusted local garage.
However, the process is quite simple – but requires specialised equipment to do the work safely and correctly.
A mechanic performs a wheel alignment to precisely adjust the angles of the wheels according to the manufacturer's specifications found in the owner’s manual.
After inspecting the tyre(s) for wear patterns, the mechanic will then check the suspension system for any issues caused by the misalignment.
Different parts of the system will show more extreme signs of wear and tear – and potentially serious damage.
Following this, the mechanic will then attach wheel alignment sensors to each wheel. These can measure the angles of the tyres relative to the frame of the vehicle – and in line with the rest of the suspension system.
The vehicle will be parked on an alignment rack, and the sensors communicate with a computer that processes the data.
A mechanic will then be able to work out where the problem is, and where the alignment needs to be changed.
After the data has been processed, the mechanic will adjust the rods that correct toe angle, ensuring the tyres are parallel or in the position outlined in the manual.
The next step is for the mechanic to alters the camber and caster of the suspension system by using control arms, bolts, or struts to ensure the tyres tilt at the correct angles.
Finally, the alignment will be tested on the rack – and if it is correct, the owner will be issued with a document with what work has been carried out.
How long does a wheel alignment take?
A front wheel alignment should take up to an hour at a reputable garage. This will take slightly longer if all four wheels are being realigned.
If you see a mechanic offering to carry out the work in a shorter time frame, be wary of the quality of work they are doing.
This is a delicate process that needs to be done correctly – both for the safety of the driver and for all other road users.
How often should your car have a wheel alignment?
It is advisable that a car should have a wheel alignment every one to two years.
However, the frequency can vary based on several factors, including driving habits, road conditions, quality of the suspension system, and how regular the maintenance is on the vehicle. Damage from potholes or a collision can also impact wheel alignment.
For drivers who are having new tyres, it is advisable to have a wheel alignment carried out at the same time.
Here are some of the signs for wheel misalignment:
- The vehicle pulls to one side
- Uneven or rapid tyre wear
- Steering wheel is off-centre when the tyres are pointing straight
- Steering feels loose or the car vibrates irregularly
If you are experiencing any of these issues, take your vehicle to a garage as soon as possible.
Wheel alignment near me
If you are looking for the best place to have a wheel alignment carried out on your vehicle, check out the RAC’s approved garage network.
We have hundreds of garages across the UK that can carry out the work, and get you back on the roads as soon as possible.
At the RAC, we’ve been looking after motorists since 1897. So, you know when a garage is RAC Approved, it’s recommended by experienced professionals.
RAC offers front wheel alignment, and front and rear wheel alignment to customers.
Wheel alignment cost
When it comes to the fee you’ll pay for a wheel alignment, drivers in the UK can expect to pay around £80 to have their front and rear tyres realigned.
However, this can vary on multiple factors, such as make, model, age, and style of vehicle – as well as how well maintained the engine and components are.
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