Wheel Alignment in Oxfordshire

Wheel alignment is a crucial maintenance procedure we take care of here at Just Right Autos. Alignment ensures your vehicle’s wheels are correctly lined up, according to manufacturer specifications.

Why Wheel Alignment is Important

Tyres Last Longer

When your wheels are correctly aligned, tyres last longer because alignment ensures even contact with the road. Misaligned tyres will wear unevenly, and parts of the tyre tread will experience more pressure and friction than others, leading to faster wear in specific areas—uneven wear results in bald spots or premature tread damage, which shortens the tyre’s lifespan.

Fuel Efficiency Improves

Correctly aligned tyres help save fuel by reducing friction between the tyres and the road. When wheels are not aligned, the vehicle might pull to one side or need more power to drive straight.

This extra effort causes more rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption to keep the same speed.

With good alignment, all four tyres move in the same direction, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. This smoother ride means the engine works less hard, which helps save fuel and lower emissions.

Better Vehicle Handling and Performance

When your vehicle’s tyres are correctly aligned, it handles better and performs well, which keeps you safer on the road.

Proper alignment positions the wheels to improve handling, stability, and control so the tyres point the same way, allowing the vehicle to respond accurately to your steering. Better stability helps with cornering, reduces the risk of swerving, and makes driving easier, especially at high speeds or on rough roads.

Alignment also ensures that weight and pressure are evenly spread across all four tyres, boosting traction and braking efficiency. With balanced traction, the car grips the road better during acceleration, braking, or turning, leading to a smoother and more responsive driving experience.

Signs Wheel Alignment is Needed

Vehicle Pulling

The vehicle pulls to one side while driving on a straight road.

Uneven Tyre Wear

Excessive wear on the inner or outer edges of tyres.

Steering Wheel Off-Centre

A steering wheel is not centred when driving straight.

Handling Issues

Difficulty steering or looseness in the steering wheel.

Wheel Alignment Adjustments

When we align the wheels at Just Right Autos, we adjust their angles in relation to each other and the vehicle’s frame. The three main angles we adjust during wheel alignment are:

Camber

Camber refers to the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Proper camber ensures even tyre wear and optimal contact with the road.

Toe

Toe refers to the angle of the wheels in relation to each other when viewed from above. Incorrect toe alignment can cause excessive tyre wear and affect steering stability.

Caster

Caster is the angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle. It affects steering stability and returnability.

Wheel Alignment Process

Initial Inspection

Our mechanic inspects the tyres, suspension components, and steering system for signs of wear or damage.

Alignment Measurement

Using specialised equipment, we measure the current alignment angles of the wheels.

Final Inspection

After adjustments, the mechanic rechecks the alignment angles meet the manufacturer’s specifications.

Suspension damage - taking a wheel off to have a look

When to Check Wheel Alignment

After hitting a curb, pothole, or any other impact, the wheel alignment should be checked, as any of these incidents can affect wheel alignment.

Wheel alignment can be requested when tyres are changed; good practice for maximising the life of your new tyres.

Wheel alignment is a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance that contributes to the overall safety, performance, and longevity of tyres and other components.

It’s recommended that wheel alignment be performed by qualified mechanics using proper equipment to ensure accurate adjustments and an optimal driving experience.