Choosing a Wheel Alignment Shop with an Angle That’s Beneficial to You

Wheel alignment is important to vehicle performance and driver and passenger safety. Therefore, it's important to address suspected suspension issues promptly. While many auto repair shops are honest and reputable, some operate from a hidden angle. That is, they're more interested in profit than people, and they're not always representing your best financial interests. When your car, truck, or SUV needs a wheel alignment, who will you choose? For a shop that puts people first and operates using positive core values, select Auto Stop Elite in the Great Falls area of Vienna, Virginia. You'll find us conveniently located at 1202 Downey Drive between Hwys. 7 and 28. Give us a call at 571-282-3380 or use our online scheduling feature to make an appointment today.

Understanding Wheel Alignment

You think you might need a wheel alignment, but you're unsure about a few things. We're here to help. Let's start by answering a few frequently asked questions.

1. What Is Wheel Alignment?

Also sometimes called suspension alignment, wheel alignment is the relationship between the wheels, axles, and vehicle. Correct alignment helps your car perform well. It also helps ensure that you have good handling and sufficient control over the auto by keeping your tires in contact with the road. There are several different types of wheel alignment (front end, all-wheel, and thrust). The one you need depends on your particular vehicle (front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, etc.) and what kinds of issues are detected. Major suspension angles include caster (slope between upper and lower ball joints relative to one another), camber (amount of left/right tilt), thrust (relationship of front wheels to rear axle), and toe (difference in distance between front and back of front tires).

How Is Wheel Alignment Done?

One of our ASE Master certified technicians will connect your vehicle to an alignment machine using a clamp at each wheel. Highly accurate computerized measurements detail where adjustment is needed. A careful pushing and pulling method is used to bring your auto back to the manufacturer's recommended tolerances. This will square the wheels and axles to orient the moving parts properly. Most often, a two-wheel-drive car will need only a front-end alignment, but it could require a thrust-angle alignment to adjust the rear wheels in relation to the center of the car. All four wheels must be aligned if the auto is an all-wheel-drive vehicle or front-wheel drive with an adjustable rear suspension.

Are There Signs That My Car Needs Wheel Alignment?

Yes. If you notice uneven tire wear, your car pulls to one side as you're driving straight ahead, the tires constantly squeal, or your steering wheel won't return to center, have us check the alignment for you.

Your Local Wheel Alignment Specialist

Improper wheel alignment becomes expensive. It stresses other vehicle components, necessitating more costly repairs, and it causes even wear (bald spots) that require tire replacement sooner than you had planned. Worse, your car may handle poorly, compromising safety. Get attention for your auto, but make sure the services are reputable. Auto Stop Elite will be glad to help! We're a phone call away at 571-282-3380.