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)
What We Do
Our Services
North Coast’s Premier Specialists in European, Asian, & Luxury Auto Repair
AC & Heat Repair
Don’t let extreme temperatures disrupt your comfort—trust us for expert AC and heating system repairs to keep you comfortable all year long, even in cases of system failure.
Brake Repair
Stay safe on the road and ensure optimal braking performance for your European vehicle with our professional brake repair services, trusted by drivers throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Suspension Repair
Restore a smooth, controlled ride and improve handling with our specialized suspension repair and maintenance services. Whether it’s stabilizers, shocks, or struts, our trained team ensures your suspension system keeps your vehicle safe and steady on the road.
Engine Repair
Enhance peak performance and smooth operation with our engine diagnostic and repair services, tailored for European and high-performance vehicles. Our comprehensive diagnostics and precision repairs ensure your engine runs flawlessly.
