Blog

How Do You Know If Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment?

2024 Jeep Gladiator

5 Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment in Toronto, ON

A properly aligned vehicle is essential for safe handling, even tire wear, and optimal fuel efficiency. But over time, potholes, curb impacts, and everyday driving on rough Canadian roads can knock your wheels out of alignment. So how do you know when it’s time to get a wheel alignment service? Continue reading along as our team at Downtown Chrysler discusses five of the most common signs that your vehicle may need a wheel alignment service.

Read More:

The Benefits of Winter Tires

How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

1. Your Vehicle Pulls to One Side

If you notice your vehicle drifting left or right when driving on a straight road, even when the steering wheel is centered, this is a strong indicator that your alignment is off. Pulling to one side is not only annoying, it can also be dangerous, especially in poor weather conditions.

2. Vibrations While Driving

If you notice your vehicle shaking or vibrating at highway speeds, this could be due to misaligned wheels or unbalanced tires. While not always caused by alignment issues, it's worth having your suspension and steering systems inspected by one of our factory-certified technicians at Downtown Chrysler.

3. Crooked Steering Wheel

Is your steering wheel slightly off-centre even though you're driving straight? That’s another clue you may need a wheel alignment. This happens when the suspension angles are out of sync, which forces you to compensate while driving.

4. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

One of the most obvious signs of misalignment is uneven tire wear. If one side of a tire is wearing down faster than the other, or you notice scalloping or bald patches, your wheels likely aren’t meeting the road at the proper angles. This shortens tire lifespan and affects handling.

5. You Hit a Pothole or Curb

Torontonians are no strangers to potholes, especially during spring thaw. If you’ve recently been a victim of one of the city’s notorious potholes, or have bumped into a curb during the cold weather months, it’s a good idea to schedule a wheel alignment inspection.

Schedule a Wheel Alignment Service at Downtown Chrysler

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms we mentioned above, it’s in your best interest to get in touch with our service team for a wheel alignment inspection. Our state-of-the-art service is equipped with precision alignment equipment to restore your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or RAM back to factory specifications. Don’t wait until tire damage occurs, book your wheel alignment service, today!