As a BMW owner, you may have difficulty driving your luxury car if the wheel is not properly aligned. Wheel alignment is one of the essential maintenance tasks that your BMW needs to deliver an itch-free driving experience, and this process involves the adjustment of your BMW’s suspension system, which connects your vehicle to the wheels. Proper wheel alignment can help extend your tire’s life, improve fuel efficiency, and provide a smoother ride. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs that indicate your BMW needs a wheel alignment service.
What is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of the wheels to ensure they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Proper wheel alignment ensures that the vehicle drives straight and true and the tires wear evenly. It also ensures that the car handles correctly and does not pull to one side or the other.
Why is BMW Wheel Alignment Important?
- Safety: If the wheels of your BMW are properly aligned, it will make your vehicle safer to drive on the road.
- Longevity of Tires: Proper alignment ensures that the tires wear evenly, which can extend their lifespan and save money on replacements.
- Fuel Efficiency: Misalignment can make the car work harder, decreasing fuel efficiency in the long run.
- Comfort: Proper alignment can improve the vehicle’s ride quality and reduce vibrations or shaking.
When Should You Get a BMW Wheel Alignment?
Getting a BMW wheel alignment every 10,000 miles or once a year is recommended, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any of the following signs, you should have your BMW’s alignment checked immediately:
- Uneven tire wear: A misaligned wheel can cause uneven tire wear in your BMW. This happens when some areas of the tire tread wear faster than others. Uneven tire wear can lead to premature tire failure and reduce the lifespan of the tires. If you notice uneven tread wear, it’s time to check your BMW’s alignment.
- Pulling to one side: If your BMW is pulling to one side, it means that the wheels are not aligned correctly. Pulling to one side can make it difficult to control the vehicle, especially at high speeds. If you notice this sign, you should get your BMW checked as soon as possible.
- Steering wheel vibration: Another way to know that you have an alignment issue is when you feel a vibration in the steering wheel while driving. The vibration may be felt at different speeds or intensities, and it can indicate that the wheels are not rotating smoothly. A certified BMW mechanic can determine the vibration’s cause and make the necessary adjustments.
- Squealing tires: If you hear a squealing sound while driving, it could be a sign of improper wheel alignment. Squealing tires can be caused by a number of issues, including uneven tire wear, worn brake pads, or misaligned wheels. If the squealing sound persists, you should have your BMW checked by a certified technician.
- Loose steering: If the steering feels loose while driving, it could indicate improper wheel alignment. Loose steering can be caused by worn suspension components while wandering steering can be caused by misaligned wheels. Both signs can make it difficult to control the vehicle, and they should be addressed as soon as possible.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of improper wheel alignment on your BMW, it’s important to get it checked and fixed as soon as possible to ensure the safety, comfort, and overall performance of your vehicle.
European Service Center: Your World Class BMW Repair Shop
At European Service Center, we have a team of BMW technicians that are experts in wheel alignment services. Our state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment, and we have the expertise to provide high-quality BMW wheel alignment services. Our team is easily accessible for BMW owners in Dallas and Houston, TX.
We offer convenient online appointment booking, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always available to answer any questions you may have about your BMW’s wheel alignment service. Don’t wait until it’s too late to fix your BMW’s wheel alignment. Book an appointment with us now and let our team make your BMW perform at its best.