Wheel Alignment
Explore Ford Wheel Alignment and Frequently Asked Questions
Wheel Alignment in Edmonton, AB
Proper wheel alignment provides precision adjustment essential for your vehicle's handling, safety, and efficiency throughout Edmonton's challenging road conditions. This service ensures wheels are angled correctly relative to each other and the road surface, exactly as the manufacturer intended for optimal performance. Driving on roads with potholes, bumps, or minor curb impacts gradually pushes your suspension out of precise settings over time. Our service centre uses state-of-the-art alignment technology to measure and correct these angles accurately. Professional alignment restores your vehicle's steering response and stability for safer, more enjoyable driving experiences on all surfaces.
Understanding Key Alignment Angles
Wheel alignment involves precisely adjusting three key angles that determine your vehicle's handling characteristics. Camber represents the inward or outward tilt of the wheel's top, which affects cornering stability and tire wear patterns across the tread surface. Toe refers to the direction wheels point relative to the vehicle's centreline, impacting straight-line stability and steering response speed. Caster represents the angle of the steering axis, which influences steering effort and high-speed stability during highway driving. When these three angles are set to factory specifications, your vehicle handles predictably while tires make optimal contact with the road for even wear.
The Benefits of a Professional Alignment
Maintaining proper wheel alignment significantly benefits your safety and your wallet over time. Correctly aligned vehicles track straight without pulling to one side, providing more relaxing and controlled driving experiences throughout Edmonton. Professional alignment prevents premature and uneven wear on your tires, allowing you to get maximum lifespan from your investment in quality tires. Furthermore, reducing rolling resistance caused by misaligned tires leads to noticeable improvement in your vehicle's fuel economy. This saves money over time while maintaining the precise handling characteristics Ford engineers designed into your vehicle for optimal performance and safety.
Ford Wheel Alignment Replacement FAQS
What is wheel alignment?
Wheel alignment is adjusting your vehicle's suspension components to ensure the wheels are perfectly angled relative to the road and each other. This service optimizes handling, maximizes tire life, and ensures the vehicle travels straight without pulling. Proper alignment is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's designed performance and safety characteristics.
How do I know if my car needs a wheel alignment?
The most common signs that your vehicle needs an alignment include a crooked steering wheel when driving straight, pulling to the left or right, or uneven and rapid tire wear. You might also notice that the steering does not feel as responsive. A professional alignment check is recommended if you observe any of these symptoms.
Why is wheel alignment important?
Wheel alignment is essential for three reasons: it improves vehicle safety by ensuring predictable handling, extends the life of your tires by preventing uneven wear, and can enhance fuel efficiency. Correct alignment is also critical for the proper operation of modern driver-assistance systems, which rely on the vehicle tracking straight to function correctly.
How often should I get a wheel alignment?
It is a good practice to have your wheel alignment checked once a year or every 20,000 kilometres. To protect your investment, you should also have it checked anytime you install a new set of tires. An alignment check is also necessary after any significant impact with a pothole or curb, or after replacing suspension components.
Do I need an alignment after replacing tires?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you perform a wheel alignment when you replace your tires. This ensures that your new tires start with the correct suspension geometry, preventing irregular wear patterns from developing right from the start. An alignment will help you get the most life and performance out of your new tire set.
How long does a wheel alignment take?
A comprehensive four-wheel alignment service typically takes about one hour to complete with modern computerized equipment. The factory-trained technician inspects the steering and suspension components for wear or damage before making precise adjustments, ensuring the alignment is both accurate and long-lasting.
Trusted Ford Service Department in Edmonton
Your vehicle's wheels don't need aligning too frequently. But you'll soon recognize the need for professional wheel alignment when the warning signs appear. Proper wheel alignment maximizes tire life, improves fuel economy, and ensures your vehicle handles exactly as it should. At Kentwood Ford, our precision alignment service corrects any issues for ideal performance. Enjoy a smoother, more efficient ride by visiting us at 13344 97 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta, call us at (780) 476-8600, or schedule an appointment online.
