Do I Need an Alignment?

Ever hit a pothole and feel like your car suddenly has a mind of its own? Maybe your steering feels loose, or your car drifts to the side when you’re trying to drive straight. These are all signs that your wheel alignment might be off.

At PNW Automotive, we know that driving in the Pacific Northwest comes with its fair share of rough roads, surprise potholes, and uneven surfaces. When your alignment is off, your car doesn’t handle the way it should, and that can lead to uneven tire wear, poor fuel efficiency, and even safety concerns.

What is a Wheel Alignment?

A wheel alignment isn’t just about the wheels—it’s about adjusting your car’s suspension so that your tires make proper contact with the road. When everything is in line, your car handles smoothly, your tires wear evenly, and you don’t have to constantly correct your steering.

If your alignment is off, even slightly, it can cause your vehicle to pull, shake, or feel unstable—especially after hitting a rough patch of road.

Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment

1. Your Car Feels Like It’s Fighting You

If your car pulls to one side or feels like it’s resisting when you try to steer straight, your alignment is likely off. It might be subtle at first, but over time, it can get worse and start affecting how you drive.

2. Your Steering Feels Loose or Unresponsive

Does your steering wheel feel too easy to turn, or do you have to constantly correct it? A misaligned suspension can make your car feel unstable, especially at higher speeds.

3. Your Tires Are Wearing Unevenly

Uneven tire wear is a classic sign of poor alignment. If the tread is wearing down more on one side of the tire than the other, your wheels aren’t making proper contact with the road.

4. You Feel Vibrations, Especially After Hitting a Bump

If your car shakes or vibrates, especially after hitting a pothole or rough road, your alignment—or even a bent wheel—could be the culprit. It’s best to have it checked before it causes further damage.

How Often Should You Get an Alignment?

Most manufacturers recommend getting an alignment once a year or every 10,000 miles, but that depends on where and how you drive. You may need one sooner if:

• You frequently drive on rough roads or hit potholes
• You feel your car pulling, shaking, or handling poorly
• You’ve recently had new tires installed (alignments help them last longer)