When you get new car wheels, a common question that arises is whether you need an alignment as well. The simple answer to this is not always, but it’s often recommended. The intricate relationship between your car’s wheels and its suspension system means that any change can affect its alignment. But why is this alignment so important, and under what circumstances should you definitely get it done? Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of a vehicle’s suspension system – the connection between the vehicle and its wheels. It doesn’t involve changing the wheels or tires itself. The primary goal of these adjustments is to reduce tire wear and to ensure that vehicle travel is straight and true without “pulling” to one side.
This can result in an accidental adjustment of the aforementioned angles.
New Wheel Size
If you change the width of your wheels or upgrade to a larger wheel size, this may affect the alignment. The vehicle’s suspension geometry could be impacted by the new size, which could cause misalignment.
Different Offset
A wheel’s offset is the separation between the hub mounting surface and the centerline of the wheel. The location of the wheel within the wheel well may change due to an offset adjustment, which may change the alignment angles.
Changes to the tires
Even if the wheels remain the same, using a change in size or kind of tire might affect alignment. Changes to the tires
Even if the wheels remain the same, using a change in size or kind of tire might affect alignment. The height of the vehicle can change as a result of different tire sidewall heights, which can then alter suspension geometry and alignment.
How Do These Modifications Apply to Brand-New Car Wheels, Then?
Alignment and New Wheels
The way the weight of your vehicle is distributed across the suspension and tires can alter when you obtain new 20 inch alloy wheels, especially if they are a different size or offset from the originals. This can result in an accidental adjustment of the aforementioned angles.
New Wheel Size
If you change the width of your wheels or upgrade to a larger wheel size, this may affect the alignment. The vehicle’s suspension geometry could be impacted by the new size, which could cause misalignment.
Various Offsets
The offset of a wheel is the separation between its hub mounting surface and centerline. The location of the wheel within the wheel well may change due to an offset adjustment, which may change the alignment angles.
Changes to the Tires
Even if the wheels remain the same, using a change size or kind of tire might affect alignment. The height of the vehicle can change as a result of different tire sidewall heights, which can then alter suspension geometry and alignment.
Why Is Correct Alignment Important?
There are various issues that can develop when wheels are not properly aligned:
Irregular Tire Wear
Your tires may experience uneven wear as a result of misaligned wheels. A shortened tire lifespan may result from one edge wearing out more quickly than the other.
Less Gasoline Efficiency
Because of greater rolling resistance caused by misaligned wheels, your engine has to work more and burn more gasoline.
Compromised Handling
An automobile that is out of alignment may be harder to steer and may drift to one side. In an emergency, this might be very difficult.
Improved Driver Fatigue
Maintaining a straight line while driving a car that is continually pulling to one side can be exhausting.
So, with New Wheels, Do You Need an Alignment?
Although getting an alignment each time you put brand-new tires is not strictly necessary, it is a good idea for the following reasons:
- Maintaining Longevity You may extend the life of your new tires by checking for alignment problems when you acquire new wheels.
- Your automobile will behave reliably if it is properly aligned; especially while making quick turns or dodging obstacles.
- Your car’s wheels need to be correctly aligned for maximum performance, ease, and efficiency.
Final Thoughts
In the end, getting an alignment is advised even though you might not necessarily require one when getting new car wheels. Your newest wheels and tires will run smoothly and last best with an alignment check (and correction, if required). Think of it as a little investment in your long-term savings and peace of mind.
