Wheel Alignment at GS Carcare
If your tyres seem to be wearing down faster than expected, it could be due to several factors — and while your first thought might be that your car needs tracking, that’s only part of the picture.
Tracking typically only sets the front wheels straight, but if the rear wheels remain out of alignment, your vehicle could still suffer from a crooked steering wheel, pulling to one side, and uneven tyre wear.
Modern vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, but no matter how advanced your engine or on-board computers are, your car simply won’t perform properly if all four wheels aren’t pointing in the same direction. That’s why it makes sense to have your wheel alignment checked and corrected as part of regular maintenance.
What Causes Wheel Misalignment?
There are several possible causes of wheel misalignment, including:
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Worn or damaged suspension components
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Incorrect adjustments
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Everyday driving wear
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Hitting potholes or kerbs
Over time, joints and bushings in the suspension system gradually wear out, meaning your vehicle can no longer hold its alignment properly. This process is slow and gradual, so serious misalignment can develop over 12 to 18 months without you even noticing — until it starts affecting your handling or tyre wear.
How to Spot Wheel Misalignment
Here are some common warning signs your wheel alignment may need adjusting:
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Your car pulls to the left or right on a straight, even road.
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It pulls in either direction while braking.
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Your steering wheel isn’t straight when driving in a straight line.
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You notice uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of your tyres.
If you can’t see obvious wear, carefully run your hand over the tyre surface to feel for uneven areas — but take care, as cords or sharp edges may be exposed on severely worn tyres.
When Should You Get Wheel Alignment Checked?
You should have your wheel alignment checked whenever you notice any of the above symptoms. Even if your car feels fine, it’s wise to include an alignment check annually or every 12,000–15,000 miles, ideally alongside your routine service.
At GS Carcare, our technicians always inspect tyre wear during your service and will advise you if we spot any signs of misalignment.
Benefits of Correct Wheel Alignment
Keeping your wheels correctly aligned offers several key benefits:
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Improved safety – your vehicle remains stable and predictable, even under sudden braking or swerving.
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Reduced tyre wear – extending tyre life and preventing costly premature replacements.
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Better fuel efficiency – aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance, helping you save on fuel.
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Enhanced performance – smoother handling, improved grip, and a more comfortable drive.
Proper wheel alignment not only keeps you safer on the road — it also saves you money by improving tyre longevity and fuel economy.
So, by ensuring your wheels are perfectly aligned, you’ll enjoy a smoother, safer, and more efficient drive — and who doesn’t want that?
