Wheel Alignment
& Tire Balance

Wheel Alignment, Tire Service, and Wheel Balance Sarasota

Have you ever wondered why your car is making strange noises? Or why it’s not running as well as usual?

It might be because the wheels are out of alignment. It’s a condition that occurs when one or more wheels have been pushed, pulled, twisted, bent, or otherwise damaged so they no longer fit snugly against the steering knuckle and tire rim. This misalignment can cause a variety of problems for your vehicle including poor gas mileage, uneven wear on tires and brakes, vibration while driving, and more. To learn more about wheel alignments in Sarasota, FL contact Brian’s Auto Repair today! We have over 15 years of experience with this type of work and want to help you get back on the road quickly with quality results.

What is a wheel alignment and why do you need it done regularly

A wheel alignment is the process of ensuring that your wheels are straight, parallel to each other, perpendicular to the ground, and at equal distances from one another. If your tires are out of alignment, it can cause serious problems for both safety and performance. Wheel alignments are generally required every 6 months or 10,000 miles depending on what type of vehicle you have.

Benefits of having a wheel alignment include better gas mileage due to increased tire life; smoother ride with less vibration; reduced wear on brakes which means they last longer; improved steering control while driving in wet conditions because there’s no risk of hydroplaning; decreased chance that your car will get stuck on a patch of ice because it’ll track better; and steering that’s easier on your hands.

How often you need a wheel alignment done will depend on the make, model, and year of your car as well as various other factors. Some manufacturers recommend alignments every 12 months or 10,000 miles whereas others advise having them done every 2-3 months or 5,000-7,500 miles. For the best wheel alignment and tire service in Sarasota, FL contact Brian’s Auto Repair today!

Computer monitor showing car axle information with SUV in background
Mechanic inspecting tire

How to tell if your car needs a wheel alignment

Uneven tread wear on tires is one of the most common signs that you need a wheel alignment as well as the feeling of your steering wheel being off-center or “wandering.” You might also notice that your vehicle pulls to one side when you’re driving at high speeds. If the car drifts, sways, or vibrates excessively during operation, it’s likely that you need an alignment. You might also hear strange sounds like popping or screeching when you’re driving or parking your car.

What are the benefits of having a wheel alignment done

When your wheels are out of alignment, it can cause a variety of problems for you and your vehicle. These include uneven tread wear on the tires, which reduces their performance and lifespan; an uncomfortable and potentially unsafe driving experience because your vehicle will not track straight or smoothly; and a higher chance of hydroplaning when the roads are wet due to poor tracking.

Uneven tire wear can also result in beefier wheels and tires being fitted to your vehicle, meaning they’ll require more frequent replacement. You might notice that you’re visiting your mechanic or tire dealer more often than usual. If you suspect that your car needs a wheel alignment, contact Brian’s Auto Repair in Sarasota, FL today to schedule an appointment!

What happens during a wheel alignment

A wheel alignment involves multiple steps and often some equipment is necessary for the process. Your mechanic will need access to your vehicle so if you’re unable to bring it into the garage they might ask that you drop your car off. At the beginning of a wheel alignment, your mechanic will use a computerized tool to test and measure the angles in which all four wheels are pointed. They will then adjust each wheel until they’re straight and even. Once that’s done, they’ll check your tracking again to ensure that it meets manufacturer specifications before finishing up with a visual inspection of the vehicle.

Wheel alignments have been shown to improve spark plug life, reduce emissions and increase fuel economy so they’re a great investment if you want to take care of your car. Your wheels will also experience less wear and tear which can result in a need for less frequent tire rotations or replacements. Contact Brian’s Auto Repair for wheel alignments in Sarasota, FL today!

Conclusion

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of a car that needs a wheel alignment, don’t hesitate to contact Brian’s Auto Repair. We are experts in this field and can get your car driving straight and smoothly again in no time! Not only will this improve the safety and performance of your vehicle, but it’ll also save you money on tires and other repairs down the road.