Is It Time for a Tire Alignment? Here’s How to Tell
Your car might not speak your language, but it definitely knows how to drop hints—especially when it comes to tire alignment. At L&L Autolink, we see alignment issues all the time, and trust us, catching them early can save you from bigger problems down the road. So, how do you know it’s the right time to schedule a tire alignment? Let’s walk through the telltale signs.
Your Steering Wheel Looks Off-Center
Driving straight, but your steering wheel’s leaning left or right? That’s more than just a visual annoyance—it’s often a sign that your wheels aren’t aligned properly. When your alignment is off, it can affect your handling and lead to uneven tire wear, which shortens your tires’ lifespan and compromises safety.
Uneven Tire Wear Is a Big Red Flag
Tires tell the truth. If the inner or outer edges are wearing out faster than the rest of the tread—or if one tire looks significantly different from the others—it’s time to take action. Misaligned wheels cause certain parts of the tire to press harder against the pavement, creating irregular wear patterns. Alignment might not be the most glamorous maintenance service, but it’ll absolutely save you money in the long run.
You Hit a Curb or Pothole
Bumped a curb in a tight turn? Slammed into a pothole on your commute? These impacts may seem minor, but they can throw your suspension system out of line in seconds. If you’ve had a recent run-in with any road hazard, it’s smart to schedule an alignment check—even if things still “feel fine.” A quick adjustment now can prevent bigger suspension issues later.
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Your Car Pulls to One Side
If your car seems to drift left or right without your steering input, it’s not the wind—it could be a misalignment. Even if the pull is subtle, it forces you to constantly correct your steering, which isn’t just annoying—it’s unsafe. At L&L Autolink, we recommend getting this looked at as soon as possible to keep your drive smooth and stable.
You’ve Had Steering or Suspension Repairs
Your alignment should always be checked after replacing parts like tie rods, control arms, or struts. These components directly affect how your wheels sit and move, and even the smallest shift can throw off your alignment angles. A post-repair alignment ensures everything is calibrated and functioning correctly.
It’s Just Been a While
Sometimes, there’s no obvious issue—just time doing its thing. Most automakers suggest checking your alignment once a year or around every 12,000 miles. Even normal wear and tear can cause the angles of your wheels to shift slightly. Making alignment checks a regular part of your car care routine is one of the easiest ways to keep your vehicle performing at its best.
Also Read: Importance of a Test Drive Before Buying a Pre-Owned Vehicle
Get It Aligned at L&L Autolink
Our team uses advanced equipment to bring your wheels back to factory specs with precision and care. Whether you’ve noticed the signs above or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.
Ready to realign your ride? Schedule your tire alignment service with L&L Autolink today—your tires (and your wallet) will thank you.