Introduction
When was the last time you had your wheel alignment checked? For many drivers, the answer is “never”—until something goes wrong. Wheel alignment is one of the most overlooked aspects of car maintenance, but it plays a vital role in your vehicle’s safety, handling, and running costs.
Driving around Gippsland, with its mix of highways, country roads, and potholes, means your alignment can easily get knocked out. Here’s why keeping your wheels aligned is not just about comfort—it’s about saving serious money.
What is a Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of your car’s wheels so they’re set to the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment ensures your tyres meet the road correctly, improving handling and tyre life.
It’s different from wheel balancing (which deals with tyre weight distribution). Alignment is about angle, direction, and precision.
Signs Your Wheels Are Out of Alignment
- Your car pulls to the left or right even on a straight road.
- Steering feels loose or unstable.
- Tyres show uneven wear (one side balder than the other).
- Your steering wheel sits crooked when driving straight.
If you notice any of these, it’s time to book an alignment.
Why Wheel Alignments Save You Money
- Tyre Life Extension
Poor alignment causes uneven wear. For example, the inner edge of your tyres may wear out while the rest looks fine. This forces you to replace tyres thousands of kilometres earlier than necessary. - Fuel Efficiency
Misaligned wheels increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and burn more fuel. A properly aligned car saves you money at the pump. - Reduced Repair Costs
Bad alignment puts stress on your suspension and steering, leading to costly repairs if ignored.
Gippsland Roads and Alignment Issues
Country roads, gravel tracks, and even city potholes in Warragul and Drouin can knock your wheels out of alignment after just one hit. If you regularly drive in rural areas or tow caravans, you may need alignments more often than city drivers.
How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?
Every 10,000 km, or at least once a year. You should also book one after:
- Installing new tyres
- Hitting a pothole or curb
- Suspension or steering repairs
FAQs About Wheel Alignment
Q: Is wheel balancing the same as alignment?
A: No. Balancing adjusts weight distribution, alignment adjusts wheel angles. Both are important.
Q: Do 4WDs need more frequent alignments?
A: Yes. Off-road driving knocks out alignment faster.
Q: Can I tell if alignment is off without a mechanic?
A: Uneven tyre wear and pulling to one side are clear indicators.
Final Thoughts
Skipping wheel alignments might save you a few dollars now, but it will cost you much more in tyre replacements, fuel, and repairs.
👉 At Drouin Tyre & Battery Service, we provide precision wheel alignments for cars, 4WDs, and trucks, helping Gippsland drivers save money while staying safe.
