How Often is a Wheel Alignment Needed in Suffolk County?

In Suffolk County, most cars will need a wheel alignment every 6,000 to 10,000 miles. This is more frequent than the national average of 12,000 miles, and is largely affected by our older and often uneven roads.

Wheel alignments help preserve tire life, improve efficiency, and ensure safety. Ignoring alignment issues could cause premature wear and cost you more in the long run.

Three Telltale Signs That You Need a Tire Alignment Service Today

You can look for signs like an off-center steering wheel or uneven tire wear to determine when it’s time to book an appointment for a tire alignment in Suffolk County.

• Off-Center Steering Wheel: Does the logo of your steering wheel tilt left or right when you’re driving in a straight line? This is a classic warning that it’s time for a car alignment service.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If you feel your car pulling left or right while driving straight, the wheels are likely out of alignment.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Tires can wear unevenly with poor alignment. Look for bald or low tread on the outside or inside of your tires.

You should also note any consistent vibrations or tire squealing. You might notice these problems even on relatively flat and smooth roads.

You can’t always rely on mileage guidelines to determine when to get a car alignment service. If you feel that your alignment is off, you should have your vehicle inspected.

Why Do Wheels Fall Out of Alignment?

Wheels can go out of alignment due to normal wear and tear of parts like shocks and struts, due to light collisions with curbs, or from aggressive driving. On Long Island, especially in Suffolk County, road conditions are a leading cause of alignment issues.

Potholes and minor bumps send jolts through your vehicle and throw the alignment off. The effect is cumulative, so while a single pothole or bump only moves the alignment a little, the effect will stack up over several thousand miles or months of driving.

How Long Will a Wheel Alignment Last?

A wheel alignment could last you another 10,000 miles, but it depends on how you drive, where you drive, and the overall condition of your vehicle. If your car or truck has worn suspension components, then the wheel alignment will degrade relatively quickly, and you might need an alignment every 6,000 miles. If your car is just a few years old, and if you mostly take long trips on smooth roads, then you might only need an alignment every 10,000 miles.

Each case is unique, which is why it’s important to build a relationship with a local auto shop. Regular inspections can keep your car running at its best and will also help you to stay on top of repairs and maintenance. Dee Pat’s Awsomotive is one of the best tire shops in Suffolk County. We are proud of our consistently positive ratings for our Long Island auto services.

• Visit us for your yearly New York State Inspection. This is the perfect opportunity for our technicians to look over your vehicle and note any necessary maintenance work.
• You can get your next tire replacement with our team. We can align your wheels at the same time.
• On Long Island, wheel alignment intervals often crossover with an oil change service. If you’re getting an oil change every 7,500 miles, you could have your alignment checked as well.

You will enjoy the increased fuel economy and reduced tire wear with perfectly aligned wheels. Don’t wait until alignment becomes a severe issue. Book a car alignment service you can trust by calling us at (631) 538-4441 today.