Simple Answers from Hugh's Riverside Automotive: Alignment

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Question:
How do I know when I need a wheel alignment?

Hugh's Riverside Automotive Answer:
When Jacksonville drivers' wheels are properly aligned they all point in the same direction. When they are out of alignment, most FL drivers notice a couple of things. First the vehicle pulls to one side when driving. It could be slight or pretty severe. If your wheels have been out of alignment for a while, you'll also start to see uneven tire wear – the shoulder on either the outside or inside of the tire is worn down more than the other.

A whole bunch of steering and suspension components are joined together. Everyday Jacksonville driving can cause Jacksonville drivers' wheels to go out of alignment over time just from the joints loosening up. That's why most recommend an alignment check every couple of years. Depending on where you live in FL or the conditions you drive in (off-road driving, harsh Jacksonville winter conditions, poor pavement, etc.), an alignment inspection every year at Hugh's Riverside Automotive may be called for.

Suspension and steering components wear over time as well, which can lead to and alignment issues for Jacksonville drivers. Of course, a big bump, like hitting a curb or pothole, can knock a wheel out of alignment or damage a steering or suspension part.

Your friendly and knowledgeable Hugh's Riverside Automotive service advisor will check your tires for uneven wear. The type of wear provides clues for what might be wrong. Undercar parts are inspected for wear and damage. The alignment machine will provide a reading of how each wheel is aligned. The reading is compared with the alignment settings recommended by the manufacturer, and then the technician makes the necessary adjustments and repairs to bring your wheels back into alignment.

Now putting off a wheel alignment in Jacksonville can get dangerous because of tire wear: a bad alignment can chew through a tire pretty quickly. If you see uneven tire wear, if your steering wheel is off center or your vehicle pulls to one side, ask your friendly and knowledgeable Hugh's Riverside Automotive service advisor about getting an alignment check.

Hugh's Riverside Automotive
620 Chelsea Street
Jacksonville, FL 32204
904.354.7425