The holidays are around the corner and for many of us that means road trips to visit family and friends. Before packing up and heading out, there are a few safety items you need to check on your vehicle. While a brake check, tire pressure check, and oil changes are normal items on the “To Do” List, something that is often overlooked is a wheel alignment.

A wheel alignment is something that should be part of your standard vehicle maintenance. It consists of adjusting the angles of your wheels so they are set to the car manufacturer’s specification as well as parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned maximizes the life of your tires and ensures straight driving on the road. In addition to ensuring the vehicle drives straight, a wheel alignment not only reduces tire wear, it also ensures the tires wear properly – keeping you and your family safe.

When it comes to the care of your vehicle, it is important to find an auto repair shop with friendly, and trained technicians.  If you have recently purchased new tires, had a collision, accident, or are replacing suspension or steering parts, it’s generally a good idea to have a wheel alignment done as well. Furthermore, it is particularly important to have a wheel alignment service if your vehicle is pulling in any one direction, if you are experiencing a crooked steering wheel while driving, your tires seem to be wearing unevenly or squeal while turning, or if you can feel a vibration in your seat or steering wheel. By restoring proper alignment to your vehicle you will be ensuring even tire wear and optimal fuel efficiency. This will help keep the maintenance costs on your vehicle down over the long run. It will also make sure your vehicle is driving as well as it should be and keeping you and your family safe.

A wheel alignment should definitely be on your list of things to do before heading out for any upcoming road tip. A local, reputable auto repair shop can certainly help with your wheel alignment needs along with any other vehicle maintenance necessary.