Wheel Alignment and Steering 101
Your vehicle’s steering system is more than just your steering wheel. It’s essential to know the basics of your steering system and wheel alignment, so your vehicle drives smoothly. Our technicians at West Kearny Mesa Automotive & Transmission in San Diego, California to get your car’s steering system in great working condition. Below, learn about your vehicle’s steering system and wheel alignment.
Two important parts of a steering system
Your vehicle’s steering system consists of two major components that are linked together: the steering wheel and your vehicle’s front wheels. The steering system ensures your car’s wheels are positioned at appropriate angles while driving. Most modern cars, small trucks, and SUVs have a rack-and-pinion steering system.
Rack and Pinion steering
Rack and pinion steering is a steering mechanism that uses two gear wheels called the rack and Pinion to convert the circular motion of your car’s steering wheel into the linear motion that allows the wheels left or right. Although the rack and Pinion is often reliable, it can face wear or damage.
Wheel alignment
Steering in the right direction also depends on correct wheel alignment. Your car’s wheels were pre-set at specific angles to keep them running straight when they were manufactured. Precise wheel alignment is needed for your vehicle to travel smoothly. Aligned wheels contribute to optimum gas mileage since your car can drive with ease.
Causes of wheel misalignment
Your vehicle may get aligned from hitting a pothole, driving on an unmaintained road, or even by hitting a bump on the curb. Improper wheel alignment causes uneven tire wear which makes it harder for you to steer your car. If you notice that your steering wheel is off center while you’re driving straight, your car pulls to the right or the left, or your tires are squealing, you should go to your local auto repair shop to get a wheel alignment.
Don’t be led astray with wheel misalignment
Proper alignment is essential so you can have full control of your steering wheel while keeping everyone safe. Our technicians at West Kearny Mesa Automotive & Transmission in San Diego, California will inspect and fix your vehicle's wheel alignment to ensure that your car is easy to steer and control. Schedule a service appointment online today to keep your wheel alignment in peak condition.
