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Many automotive service centers offer their customers the ability to have their alignment checked at no cost. The problem is, many people simply do not know when the right time is to take advantage of this free service. If you are not quite sure how to tell when it is time to have your wheel alignment checked out, continue reading. Here, you'll learn about three times when you should take your vehicle in to check the wheel alignment. 

You Recently Got New Tires

If you recently put new tires on your vehicle, it is a good idea to have your alignment checked. This is a good idea for both your vehicle and for your new tires. If your vehicle's alignment is off, your tire tread will wear unevenly. This could result in you needing to replace your brand new tires much faster than usual. This type of irregular wear pattern can also result in any warranty on your new tires being voided since the damage to your tires was a result of poor vehicle maintenance rather than a tire defect or road hazard.

Your Vehicle Is Pulling To One Side

When your wheel alignment is off, you will notice that your vehicle starts to naturally pull to one side. At first, this pulling will be relatively minor, however, it will become increasingly worse as time goes on if your alignment is not corrected. 

In some cases, you will notice that your steering wheel is not centered when your tires are facing straight forward. Unfortunately, a minor issue with your alignment may not be quite as easy to spot since many people unconsciously make corrections when driving. To test the alignment of your steering wheel, simply remove your hands from the steering wheel briefly while driving straight ahead. If the vehicle starts to veer to one side, there is a good chance you need alignment. For your safety and the safety of other drivers, this test should only be completed if you are the only car on the road at the time.

Your Steering Wheel Feels Like It Is Shaking

If you feel shaking or vibration in your steering wheel while driving, this can be the result of a bad alignment. This symptom can also be the result of other issues within your wheel assembly. Consequently, if you are experiencing this particular issue, you will want to ensure your vehicle is taken into the service center of your choosing as soon as possible. Contact an auto service for more information regarding a wheel alignment.