When buying a pre-owned vehicle from a used car dealership, rather than kicking the tires and giving them a suspicious glance, look at their tread and how evenly worn they are. This can indicate how well the wheels are aligned and might give you a clue about the vehicle’s previous upkeep. Wheel alignment affects various vital aspects of driving, such as handling and passenger safety.
Maintain Vehicle Safety
Safety is the foremost reason why aligned wheels are crucial for pre-owned vehicles. Misaligned wheels can cause the car to pull to one side, making it hard to maintain control, especially during sudden maneuvers or adverse weather conditions. Poorly aligned wheels significantly increase the risk of accidents. Proper alignment ensures all four wheels point in the same direction, enhancing stability and allowing for more precise handling.
Optimize Fuel Efficiency
When wheels are misaligned they create extra rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain any given speed. With the wheels correctly aligned, the vehicle can move more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and saving money on gas.
How to Detect Misaligned Wheels
A noticeable effect of poor alignment is uneven tire wear. Misaligned wheels can cause the tires to wear unevenly or more rapidly on one edge, depending on the type of misalignment (e.g., toe-in, toe-out). Uneven wear patterns, such as inner or outer tread wear and feathering/scalloping, may indicate camber or toe alignment issues. Excessive and uneven tire wear across all tires could signal a broader alignment or suspension problem.
During a test drive, look for signs of misalignment, such as the vehicle trying to veer sideways. This will necessitate constant steering adjustment to keep it on a straight path. Also, be sure to check if the steering wheel is off-center while driving straight or if it vibrates at higher speeds.
Buy From a Reputable Used Car Dealership
Many reputable used car vendors have a standard pre-sale inspection process that includes checking key elements of the vehicle, such as the engine, brakes, suspension, wheels, and alignment. Safety checks protect the customer, preserve the dealer’s reputation, and minimize liability.
If an alignment issue is detected during an inspection, the dealer would likely correct the problem before selling the car. This commitment to quality helps build trust with customers and encourages repeat business.
Contact Own A Car in Fresno, CA, for help finding your perfect pre-owned vehicle.