Tire Alignment and Tire Rotation Services

Q: How long does a full alignment take?

Wheel alignments typically take one hour for both two-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. However, excessive wear and tear on suspension components like bushings, track rods, or the system itself can require replacements, extending the service time.

Q: What happens if you wait too long for an alignment?

Tire alignment is crucial for maintaining optimal tire performance and lifespan. Even slight misalignments, undetectable to the naked eye but measurable in tenths of degrees or hundredths of inches, can lead to premature and uneven wear. As time passes, this wear becomes more pronounced, impacting both safety and fuel efficiency. To avoid these issues, regular alignment checks every 6,000 miles are recommended.

Q: What is checked during an alignment?

Three crucial aspects are assessed during a tire alignment inspection: camber, toe, and caster. Camber refers to the angle formed by the vertical axis of the tire and a line perpendicular to the road surface, as viewed from the front. When the top of the tire tilts inwards, creating an "X" shape with the wheels, it's considered negative camber. This can increase wear on the tire's inner edge through increased friction.

Q: Do I need an alignment after replacing tires?

The answer is yes! A proper wheel alignment ensures precise angles between wheels and the road, maximizing tire life, enhancing handling, and distributing wear evenly across the tread. This translates to better fuel efficiency, safer driving, and a more enjoyable ride.

KEITH'S AUTOMOTIVE CENTER > The Best Auto Repair And Maintenance Services > ALIGNMENT

Alignment and Tire Adjustments

Ensure your tires are in optimal condition with precise alignment services at Keith's Automotive Center. Properly aligned tires not only extend their lifespan but also enhance your vehicle's handling by preventing it from "pulling" to one side. Our certified tire specialists employ state-of-the-art equipment to meticulously inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear, cracking, or slow leaks.

Alignment
Wheel alignment (or simply alignment) is standard car maintenance that involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. The main purpose is to let the suspension and the steering systems operate at their desired angles - this reduces tire wear. Alignment is a complicated process and not all mechanics get it right. To have experts handle your car's alignment, visit Keith's Automotive Center.

Alignment FAQs

How long does a full alignment take?

A wheel alignment usually takes about an hour for both two-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. However, if there is significant wear and tear on suspension components like bushings, track rods, or the alignment system itself, replacement parts may be needed, which could extend the service time.

What happens if you wait too long for an alignment?

Delaying a wheel alignment can negatively affect your tire performance and lifespan. Even slight misalignments, which are imperceptible to the eye but measurable in small degrees or fractions of an inch, can cause uneven and premature tire wear. Over time, this wear becomes more noticeable, impacting safety and fuel efficiency. To prevent these issues, it's recommended to have your alignment checked every 6,000 miles.

What is checked during an alignment?

During a tire alignment, three key angles are examined: camber, toe, and caster. Camber refers to the angle between the vertical axis of the tire and a line perpendicular to the road surface when viewed from the front. If the top of the tire tilts inward, creating an "X" shape between the wheels, it's known as negative camber, which can cause excessive wear on the inner edge of the tire due to increased friction.

Do I need an alignment after replacing tires?

Yes, you do! Proper wheel alignment ensures that the angles between your tires and the road surface are accurate, which helps to maximize tire life, improve handling, and ensure even tread wear. This not only boosts fuel efficiency and driving safety but also enhances your overall driving experience.

Don't let uneven tire wear diminish the longevity of your tires. Experience a fast and cost-effective tire alignment at our shop in Highland. Call us today at 618-654-8471 to schedule an appointment.

To learn more about our Alignment services, call us at 618-654-8471 or request a quote by clicking below:

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Reviews

I called Keith's Automotive after my brakes started scraping a month after having them done somewhere else. After being told my caliper was bad and a $700+ quote I called Keith's and Adam was very helpful. After they looked at it Adam let me know it seized because my break line was swollen. He was able to transfer my brake warranty for the pads and rotors and along with a caliper and hose it was still well under $400. I'm thankful for their honesty, thorougness, and professionalism. If I let the other place change my caliper I would've been back in a couple days because they didn't tell me about the brake line being swollen and who knows how much money.

Nick A.

My vehicle broke down on a long road trip in some random place along I-70. I looked for a mechanic with good review to tow my vehicle to it, and I was lucky enough to find Keith's Automotive Center. They went the extra mile and lent a helping hand when I was literally stranded in their small town. They got my car into a service bay on a same-day basis and got back to me with preliminary diagnosis before close of business. They continued to troubleshoot the next morning and gave me solutions with quotes that were accurate. They worked over the next week to keep me informed as to progress, and in every way they went above and beyond to make sure that I was taken care of, even helping me get squared away while I was in town and trying to figure out how to get home while I awaited repairs. They delivered their work faster than they had quoted and faster than I'd have expected. Then because I had to come back from out of town, Adam met me outside of normal hours to return the vehicle to me. These guys are trustworthy and pros.

Jarod C.

Professionalism

We broke down on our way home from Missouri. We live in Indiana, and the first shop that popped up was Keith's. They are vary professional, and they worked half the night to get our car fixed for us. Thank you guys so much for helping us! We made it back home and our car did great! I would 100% recommend this shop to anyone! Thank you guys so much again!

Mary D.

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