6 Common Causes of Wheel Alignment Changes

Your vehicle's wheel alignment is one of the most important factors in how your car handles on a daily basis. In fact, alignment can affect multiple levels of vehicle performance, as we discuss in our previous blog, "Why Correct Wheel Alignment Is So Important to Your Car's Performance."

You probably know how critical correct wheel alignment is for a smooth, fuel-efficient ride, but you may not know how to preserve ideal alignment. In addition to routine wheel alignment services, you should also drive conscientiously to minimize unwanted changes to your alignment.

In this blog, we list six common circumstances that can change your vehicle alignment.

1. Accidents

A car accident can have a massive impact on your day, your health, and your vehicle's alignment. This issue is particularly common in serious collisions, but your alignment can change even in a fender bender.

You should watch for signs of misalignment, like your car pulling to one side, after an automotive accident, even if the accident simply consisted of backing into a telephone pole or bumping a parked car.

2. Curbs

One of the most significant reasons your wheel alignment may change is if you have a habit of hitting or driving over curbs. Because curb impact may only affect one or two of your wheels at a time, these wheels may go out of alignment immediately, while your other wheels may take more time to change alignment.

If you often have trouble gauging the distance between your car and the nearest curb, then consider taking some time to practice driving in an empty lot. By practicing, you can learn the natural turning radius and stopping distance of your vehicle.

3. Impact Incidents

In addition to actual accidents, any impact incident can potentially alter your wheel's alignment. For example, if a motorcyclist runs into one of your wheel wells, then the impact could change the alignment of that particular wheel.

Even minor household incidents like runaway lawn mowers or children's bicycles can contribute to rapid changes in your alignment. If your driveway is often a high traffic area, then prioritize parking in the garage to protect your vehicle.

4. Parking Stalls and Garages

While parking in a covered spot or garage can protect your vehicle from impact incidents, your alignment can also change if your wheels bump into or scrape against the side of a parking structure. Always use caution when entering and exiting covered parking.

Additionally, for your home garage, you may want to install guides along the sides or at the back of the garage to minimize the risk of scraping your car or wheels.

5. Potholes

Another aspect that affects how long your vehicle can go between alignment services is the quality of the roads you frequently drive on. For example, hitting a single pothole may not change the alignment, but hitting the same pothole on your daily commute may dramatically affect the way your car handles.

You should exercise particular caution in areas with large potholes or significant sections of uneven terrain. If your car hits these obstructions at the wrong angle, then the impact could instantly upset your wheel's alignment.

6. Speed Bumps

While speed bumps help control speeds in parking lots, they can also pose a threat to your wheel alignment. Specifically, if you have a habit of speeding, then as you drive over these bumps, the force of your tires hitting the speed bump may ruin your alignment.

As you operate your vehicle, be aware of situations and driving habits that can have a negative impact on your car's wheel alignment, like those listed above.

For expert alignment recommendations and realignment services, you can trust our experienced team of professionals at Dualtone Muffler Brake & Alignment. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.