An alignment sets the angles of the wheels relative to the car and to each other. Toe is whether the tires point straight ahead or slightly in or out. Camber is the inward or outward tilt at the top. Caster is the tilt of the steering axis, which affects straight-line stability and how the wheel returns to centre after a turn.
Spring potholes and the odd curb are the usual reasons an alignment drifts. One hard hit can knock the toe out far enough to wear the inside edge of a new tire much faster than normal.
Before we adjust anything, we check the steering and suspension. Worn tie rod ends or ball joints let the wheel move around, and the alignment won't hold until they're fixed. We show you the before and after readings.
Why it matters
Tires last longer
Bad toe is the most common cause of fast, uneven wear on the inner or outer edge. An alignment protects what you spent on tires.
The car drives straight
A car that pulls makes you hold steady pressure on the wheel to stay in your lane. On a long drive up the 400, that gets old fast.
Driver aids read the steering
Stability control and lane-keeping systems use the steering angle. If the wheel sits off-centre, those systems may not behave as they should.
Signs it's time
- Car pulls or drifts on a flat road
- Steering wheel off-centre when driving straight
- Inner or outer tire edges wearing faster
- Tread that feels sharp one way and smooth the other
- You hit a pothole or curb hard
- Steering feels loose or the car wanders
What's included
- Tire condition and pressure check
- Steering and suspension parts checked for wear
- Before readings of toe, camber and caster
- Adjustment to the manufacturer's specs where the car allows
- Steering wheel centred
- Steering angle sensor reset on cars that need it
- Before and after readings for your records
How often
Once a year, or after a hard hit
Also have it checked when you install new tires or replace steering or suspension parts. Spring, after pothole season, is a good time.
