Alignments in Greer, SC

Sometimes referred to as a front-end alignment or a tire alignment, a wheel alignment adjusts three angles for each tire: Camber, caster and toe. The alignment ensures the proper amount of tread is sitting on the road and that the tires are parallel to each other. Eastside Automotive in Greer, SC, has a state-of-the-art alignment machine that allows the auto repair shop to check the tire angles and make any necessary repairs.

Wheel Alignment Types

The three primary types of alignments and each have their own purpose:

Front-End Alignment

It focuses on camber and toe. There may be times when kits, eccentrics, or shims may be needed and are additional items.

Four-Wheel Alignment

A four-wheel alignment aligns all four wheels. This alignment ensures the wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. It is commonly used on vehicles with independent rear suspension.

Thrust-Angle Alignment

A thrust-angle alignment aligns all four wheels and addresses the rear-wheel angle positioning against the centerline of the vehicle. This type of alignment is for vehicles with a solid rear axle.

Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment

While it’s better to have the wheel alignment checked every year so you can catch it before it starts to wear on the tires, sometimes things happen to knock the vehicle out of alignment. Hitting a pothole just right or bumping a curb could knock the alignment out. Even if you have the alignment checked frequently, you should also look for signs your vehicle needs an alignment, including:

Uneven Tire Wear

The type of uneven tire wear from alignment issues is different from uneven tire wear caused by incorrect air pressure. If the uneven tire wear is on one side of the tire tread or the whole tread shows scalloping, the problem is a suspension or alignment problem.

Pulling to One Side

When your vehicle pulls to one side when you let the steering wheel go on a flat road, you may have an alignment issue. Pulling is dangerous as it affects handling and control.

Off Center Steering Wheel

If you are driving straight, but the steering wheel isn’t centered, the wheels are most likely misaligned. Eastside Automotive in Greer, SC can check and adjust the alignment to get the steering wheel centered.

Steering Wheel Vibration

If you feel vibrations in the steering wheel at higher speeds and you know your vehicle’s tires are balanced, you may have an alignment problem.

Drifting on Worn or Uneven Roads

If your vehicle tends to drift on grooved or uneven roads, you may need an alignment. You’ll notice the problem more on rutted and worn roads.

In addition to keeping your vehicle driving straight, keeping it aligned has many benefits, including:

Enhanced Safety

When the wheels are misaligned, it could cause pulling and other unpredictable situations that make driving dangerous. When the vehicle is aligned, it significantly reduces the risk of getting into an accident as it allows for easier control of the vehicle.

Improved Fuel Economy

When the wheels are not aligned, the tires have more resistance and drag against the road, which decreases fuel efficiency, as it takes more energy to move the vehicle forward.

Extended Tire Life

Misaligned wheels can cause extensive tire wear – to the point you need to replace the worn tire. You can save a ton of money by ensuring your vehicle stays aligned by checking it at least once per year.

Better Handling and Comfort

When your vehicle is aligned, it is easier and more comfortable to drive since you’re not fighting the steering wheel. It also makes the vehicle handle better, which means it’s safer on the road.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Misalignment not only causes uneven tire wear but it also increases wear and tear on some suspension and steering components. Keeping the vehicle aligned means less wear and tear, which translates into “you save money in the long run.”

Contact Eastside Automotive

When you need preventative maintenance or repairs, contact Eastside Automotive at (864) 801-0202 for an appointment. We are conveniently located at 2010 River Road, Greer SC 29650.