Thistle Automotive Ltd
11222 87 Ave Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 2S4 780-998-0588

Simple Answers from Thistle Automotive Ltd: Alignment

Last Updated: Mar 22, 2017

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

Thistle Automotive Ltd Answer:
When Fort Saskatchewan drivers' wheels are properly aligned they all point in the same direction. When they are out of alignment, most AB 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 Fort Saskatchewan driving can cause Fort Saskatchewan 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 AB or the conditions you drive in (off-road driving, harsh Fort Saskatchewan winter conditions, poor pavement, etc.), an alignment inspection every year at Thistle Automotive Ltd may be called for.

Suspension and steering components wear over time as well, which can lead to and alignment issues for Fort Saskatchewan 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 Thistle Automotive Ltd 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 Fort Saskatchewan 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 Thistle Automotive Ltd service advisor about getting an alignment check.

Thistle Automotive Ltd
11222 87 Ave
Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 2S4
780-998-0588
www.thistleauto.ca