Correctly aligned tires will reduce tire wear, and ensure that your hybrid vehicle travels straight and true (without "pulling" to one side). Your tires should be checked during routine maintenance, but if you notice uneven tire wear or your hybrid car is pulling to one side, you should have a qualified automotive technician examine your car. You can trust the technicians at Hybrid St. Louis to thoroughly examine your hybrid vehicle's tires and correct the alignment if necessary. Call us at 314-968-2995 if you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment.

Our alignment services include:

Alignment
Wheel alignment (or simply alignment) is standard car maintenance that involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. The main purpose is to let the suspension and the steering systems operate at their desired angles - this reduces tire wear. Alignment is a complicated process and not all mechanics get it right. To have experts handle your car's alignment, visit Hybrid St. Louis.

Benefits of a Professional Wheel Alignment

Regular wheel alignments offer a range of benefits that keep your vehicle in optimal condition:

• Improved Safety: Proper alignment enhances handling, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Increased Tire Life: Evenly aligned wheels prevent premature tire wear, saving you money in the long run.
• Better Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels can increase rolling resistance, causing higher fuel consumption.
• Smoother Driving Experience: Alignment issues can cause vibrations or pulling; fixing them restores comfort on the road.

Alignment FAQs

How long does a full alignment take?

A wheel alignment usually takes about an hour for both two-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. However, if there is significant wear and tear on suspension components like bushings, track rods, or the alignment system itself, replacement parts may be needed, which could extend the service time.

What happens if you wait too long for an alignment?

Delaying a wheel alignment can negatively affect your tire performance and lifespan. Even slight misalignments, which are imperceptible to the eye but measurable in small degrees or fractions of an inch, can cause uneven and premature tire wear. Over time, this wear becomes more noticeable, impacting safety and fuel efficiency. To prevent these issues, it's recommended to have your alignment checked every 6,000 miles.

What is checked during an alignment?

During a tire alignment, three key angles are examined: camber, toe, and caster. Camber refers to the angle between the vertical axis of the tire and a line perpendicular to the road surface when viewed from the front. If the top of the tire tilts inward, creating an "X" shape between the wheels, it's known as negative camber, which can cause excessive wear on the inner edge of the tire due to increased friction.

Do I need an alignment after replacing tires?

Yes, you do! Proper wheel alignment ensures that the angles between your tires and the road surface are accurate, which helps to maximize tire life, improve handling, and ensure even tread wear. This not only boosts fuel efficiency and driving safety but also enhances your overall driving experience.

Don't let uneven tire wear diminish the longevity of your tires. Experience a fast and cost-effective tire alignment at our shop in St. Louis. Call us today at 314-968-2995 to schedule an appointment.