How to Tell If Your German Car Needs Alignment

Proper Maintenance

Drivers of German cars know how important regular maintenance is. It is especially important to align your car as part of your maintenance schedule. While detecting a misaligned suspension in a German car is a long process, it is still important to your maintenance schedule. Both two and four-wheel alignment will improve your car’s surface contact and ensure even wear of tire tread.

Types Of Wheel Alignment

Whether you have a BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, Benz, Audi, or Volkswagen, your Suspension is designed with each wheel interacting independently of the others. Three geometric settings on your German car control how the wheel stays in contact with the surface. This contact can also be part of how your tire wear is impacted. The toe is the direction in which the wheels point in relation to the chassis and each other. Most German cars are happier with slightly out-of-alignment toes because they give you a wider wheel, creating stability in how your car moves on the road. Camber is how much the tire leans in or out as compared to perpendicular to the road. The idea is to pre-align for lean created in turns and give a better road contact patch. Many BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz Audi, and Volkswagens are aligned with a slight negative camber to maintain road contact. Castor is the angle of the tire, and the wheel is positive from front to back. Usually, you don’t have to adjust this alignment unless you’ve hit a pothole or curb hard. When you notice your German car begins to pull to the left or right or the tires are beginning to wear in a new location or pattern, it’s time to consider aligning your car.

What Can Rick’s Auto Do For You

With proper maintenance, your BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volkswagen will be in service for a long time. Your wheels should be aligned anytime you notice your car pulling to one side or another or if you notice tire wear along any surface of your tires. Contact us at our Marcus Hook, PA, location, where we accept all appointments and walk-ins. Be sure to check our online specials for money-saving coupons before you come by. If you have any questions, come by and see us; we’re happy to assist you.