A wheel alignment adjusts your vehicle's suspension angles to align tires perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Hitting potholes, curbs, or rough road surfaces knocks suspension angles out of specification, leading to rapid tire scrubbing, steering wheel misalignment, and vehicle drifting.
At Williams Auto Service, we use digital wheel alignment technology to measure and adjust suspension angles back to factory specifications.
Key Wheel Alignment Angles Explained
1. Camber
The inward or outward tilt of the tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle. Excessive negative or positive camber causes inner or outer tire edge wear.
2. Caster
The forward or rearward tilt of the steering axis when viewed from the side. Proper caster ensures straight-line directional stability and self-centering steering wheel return.
3. Toe
The direction the tires point relative to the centerline of the vehicle when viewed from above (toe-in vs. toe-out). Incorrect toe alignment is the leading cause of rapid tread scrubbing and wear.
Clear Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
- Vehicle pulls or drifts to the left or right on straight roads.
- The steering wheel remains off-center when driving straight.
- Rapid or uneven tire wear along shoulder edges.
- Squealing tires when turning normal corners.
Wheel Alignments for Richmond & Surrounding Municipalities
Road conditions across Richmond, Henrico, Hanover, Chesterfield, Chester, and Williamsburg, VA impact suspension components over time. Periodic wheel alignment adjustments extend tire life and preserve overall handling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a wheel alignment check?
We recommend checking wheel alignment annually, every 12,000 miles, or whenever you purchase a new set of tires or replace suspension components.
What is the difference between wheel balancing and wheel alignment?
Wheel balancing corrects weight imbalances in tire/wheel assemblies to prevent high-speed vibrations. Wheel alignment adjusts suspension angles to ensure tires roll true to the road surface.
Book Your Precision Wheel Alignment Today
Protect your tire investment. Contact Williams Auto Service at (804) 230-3051 or visit us at 401 Cowardin Ave, Richmond, VA 23224.
Call (804) 230-3051
