Wheel alignment questions
Straight answers to what drivers ask us most. Something else on your mind? Call (951) 445-8055.
How do I know if my car needs an alignment?
The car pulls to one side on a straight road, the steering wheel is off-center when you're driving straight, or the tires are wearing on one edge. Hitting a curb or a deep pothole can knock the alignment out too.
How often should I get an alignment?
There's no fixed interval for most cars. Have it checked when you get new tires, after suspension or steering work, after a hard hit, or any time you notice pulling or uneven tire wear.
Can worn parts keep a car from staying aligned?
Yes. Worn tie rod ends, ball joints or control arm bushings let the wheels move out of position. We check those first, because aligning a car with worn parts doesn't last.
Is it alignment or balance?
Alignment is the angle of the wheels; problems show up as pulling and uneven tire wear. Balance is weight distributed around the wheel; problems show up as vibration at certain speeds. They're different services, and sometimes a car needs both.
Recent alignment work at our shop
A few recent jobs from our service records, with the mileage at the visit. No customer details.
| Vehicle | Mileage | Work done | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 Honda Accord | 134,388 mi | Control arms | Jul 2026 |
| 2019 Infiniti QX50 | 127,052 mi | Control arms, Wheel alignment | May 2026 |
| 2014 Ford F-150 | 135,477 mi | Control arms, Tie rods, Wheel alignment | Feb 2026 |
| 2019 Toyota Highlander | 97,526 mi | Wheel alignment | Dec 2025 |
| 2013 Nissan Sentra | 144,000 mi | Tie rods | Jul 2025 |