We accept the following buy now, pay later services: Klarna, Affirm, and Sunbit.
We accept the following buy now, pay later services: Klarna, Affirm, and Sunbit.
As winter takes a toll on your car, it’s common to wonder, "Do I need an alignment on my car after winter?" The answer is yes—winter road conditions, including potholes, rough weather, and icy roads, can impact your vehicle’s alignment. Here’s why you should get an alignment after winter and how to spot the signs your car might need it.
Why Winter Affects Car Alignment
1. Potholes and Rough Roads:
Winter often brings
potholes and uneven road surfaces that can throw your car's wheels out of alignment. Hitting a pothole, even at low speeds, can cause your vehicle to pull to one side.
2. Snow and Ice Buildup:
The buildup of snow and ice on the roads can lead to uneven traction, putting extra strain on your
vehicle’s alignment. Even if the roads seem clear, the aftermath of winter can still cause alignment problems.
3. Cold Weather Effects:
Cold temperatures can cause your tires to contract, which might lead to uneven wear or affect the alignment of your wheels.
Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment After Winter
1. Car Pulls to One Side:
If your
car drifts left or right while driving straight, it could indicate a misalignment. Winter weather, with potholes and icy patches, is often the cause.
2. Uneven Tire Wear:
Inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear. If one side of the tire has more wear than the other, your alignment is likely off. This could lead to premature tire replacement.
3. Crooked Steering Wheel:
If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight or feels misaligned, it’s time to check your car's alignment. This is a common post-winter issue.
4. Vibration While Driving:
Feeling vibrations in the steering wheel or the car itself? Misaligned wheels can cause this. It’s best to get your alignment checked to avoid further issues.
Why Alignment Matters for Your Car
1. Prolongs Tire Life:
A proper alignment reduces uneven tire wear, helping your tires last longer and saving you money in the long run.
2. Improves Fuel Efficiency:
Misalignment causes your vehicle to work harder, decreasing
fuel efficiency. A proper alignment helps maintain optimal gas mileage.
3. Better Handling and Safety:
When your wheels are aligned, your car handles better, especially in emergency situations. Misalignment can make
steering difficult, impacting your overall safety.
4. Prevents Expensive Repairs:
A misalignment can damage your suspension and other vehicle parts. Addressing alignment issues early saves you from expensive repairs later on.
How to Prevent Alignment Issues After Winter
1. Regular Tire Inspections:
Check your tires regularly for uneven wear.
Keeping your tires properly inflated also helps prevent alignment problems.
2. Get Your Alignment Checked Annually:
A yearly alignment check, particularly after winter, ensures that your vehicle is in top condition.
3. Avoid Rough Roads When Possible:
Drive carefully during the winter to avoid potholes and icy patches. If you do hit something hard, get your alignment checked soon after.
After a harsh winter, it’s important to check whether your car needs an alignment. Common signs include your car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a crooked steering wheel. Getting an alignment helps improve tire life, fuel efficiency, safety, and prevents further damage. So, if you’ve been asking yourself, "Does my car need an alignment after winter?"—it’s better to check sooner rather than later.
Need an alignment for your vehicle? We can help
Lou's Car Care & Fleet Services has been proudly serving Baldwinsville, NY, and surrounding communities since 1976. Call us or schedule your next appointment online today!
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