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November 14, 2024
It happens to the best of us: you're driving along, minding your own business, and suddenly—bam!—you hit a pothole. Besides the immediate jolt, that unexpected bump might have thrown your wheels out of alignment.
If you’re wondering whether hitting a pothole means you need an alignment, here’s what to know and signs it’s time to have your alignment checked by a pro.
A wheel alignment ensures that your tires are angled correctly with the road and each other. When your wheels are properly aligned, your car drives smoothly, your tires wear evenly, and you save money on fuel! However, hitting a pothole can knock your wheels out of alignment, making driving less safe and putting extra stress on your tires.
Ignoring misalignment can lead to bigger issues, like uneven tire wear and poor handling, both of which could compromise your safety on the road. That’s why it’s worth checking your alignment after an impact with a pothole.
Not sure if that pothole did any real damage? Here are a few warning signs that your wheels may need an alignment:
These signs can sneak up on you, so it’s wise to stay alert and act quickly if you notice any of them!
Driving with misaligned wheels might not seem urgent, but it impacts more than just your car's handling. Misalignment can wear down your tires faster, reduce fuel efficiency, and even strain your suspension system. Over time, this leads to costly repairs and replacements that could have been avoided with a simple alignment check.
For something as minor as hitting a pothole, the ripple effect on your vehicle’s health is significant. Ensuring your wheels are aligned can save you money and stress down the road.
While potholes are a common culprit, they’re not the only reason to get an alignment check. Even everyday driving over time can shift your alignment slightly. As a general rule, consider getting your alignment checked once a year or every 10,000 miles. However, if you hit a particularly hard bump or pothole, it’s a good idea to have your alignment inspected sooner rather than later.
Routine alignment checks are a simple way to extend the life of your tires and keep your car running safely and efficiently.
Don’t let a small pothole lead to big problems! If you’ve recently hit a pothole or noticed signs of misalignment, schedule a quick alignment check to ensure your car’s safety and performance.
At Ice Cold Air, we’re here to help keep your vehicle on the road with smooth handling and peace of mind. Give our team a call or come visit us at one of our many locations!
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