Charlie Clark Chevrolet Buick GMC Offers Affordable Wheel Alignment Near Lubbock, TX

Many drivers don't know the importance of maintaining their vehicle's wheel alignment. Proper wheel alignment means your car will run more smoothly, and the tires will last longer. Even with developments in modern vehicles, alignment services are still required. If you need wheel alignment service near Lubbock, TX, look no further than Charlie Clark Chevrolet Buick GMC.

How Does a Wheel Alignment Work?

Wheel alignment service is a process that looks for three key angles, all related to the wheel's orientation and how it links to the vehicle's suspension. This process ensures that your vehicle's wheels are set to the manufacturer's specifications, providing you with a smooth and safe driving experience.

1. Camber

The wheels' own vertical angle is known as camber. It is the tilt that is seen from the front of the car, either inward or outward. The term "negative camber" refers to an inward tilt in which the tops of your tires are closer together than the bottoms. "Positive camber" refers to an outward tilt that occurs when the tops of your tires are farther apart than the bottoms. Either way, you require a service to correct your poor wheel alignment.

2. The toe

With the exception of viewing the angle from the top of the car rather than the front, the toe and camber are the same. This tilt, either inward or outward, increases the load on your suspension and reduces the efficiency of your vehicle's driving. The term "toe-in alignment" refers to an inward inclination where the front tires point toward the vehicle's center. When the front of your tire deviate from the center, this is known as a "toe-out alignment". Whatever the case, you will have to change.

3. Caster

The caster differs from the camber and toe because it doesn't consider the wheel's angle. Instead, it describes the steering axis's angle as viewed from the vehicle's side. A negative caster occurs when the steering axis tilts backward, which can lead to less stability at higher speeds and may make the steering feel lighter. When it leans back from the center, it is called a "positive caster."

What Happens When My Wheels Are Misaligned?

You may notice poor handling, reduced road traction, and increased tire wear. Misalignment can also affect fuel efficiency and cause your vehicle to pull to one side. Otherwise, your vehicle will consume more gasoline to compensate for the misalignment, and your tires will wear faster.

While wheel misalignment may not directly cause safety issues in most cases, it can lead to increased risk over time by affecting vehicle handling and tire wear. We recommend having your wheels aligned once a year or after any incident or accident on the road.

As previously stated, it is improbable that you would suffer an event caused by improperly aligned wheels, but it is not impossible, and it is certainly not worth the risk.

Align Your Wheels Today at Charlie Clark Chevrolet Buick GMC

If you believe your Chevy's wheels are out of alignment, do not hesitate to book a service appointment with our courteous team of professionals. Call Charlie Clark Chevrolet Buick GMC to schedule an appointment if you live near Lubbock, TX. Our service and parts department is available six days a week. We are looking forward to seeing you.