INFINITI Wheel Alignment: Why it Matters and When to Do it

Regular vehicle maintenance is not only about oil changes and tire rotations. An often overlooked but equally essential aspect is wheel alignment. Misalignment of your INFINITI’s wheels can lead to uneven tire wear, loose steering, and suspension issues.

Waiting too long to correct misalignment can also affect your vehicle’s fuel economy and overall lifespan. Given that driving habits and natural wear and tear can cause wheels to fall out of alignment, it’s important to incorporate periodic alignment checks into your vehicle’s maintenance routine.

Ways to Measure Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is all about ensuring your vehicle’s wheels point in the right direction, thereby promoting even tire wear and enhancing your vehicle’s handling. Three main measurements are taken into account when assessing wheel alignment: camber, caster, and toe.

Camber refers to the angle of the tire in relation to the ground when viewed from the front of the vehicle. If the top of the tire leans away from the vehicle, it’s considered to have positive camber. Conversely, if it leans towards the vehicle, it has negative camber.

Caster, on the other hand, refers to the angle of the tire’s steering axis when viewed from the side. Positive caster ensures stability and helps your vehicle steer in a straight line, while negative caster can make the steering lighter but less stable.

Lastly, toe refers to the degree to which one or more tires point inward or outward from straight ahead when viewed from above. Toe-in (or positive toe) means the tires point inwards, while toe-out (or negative toe) means they point outwards.

Signs You Need Wheel Alignment

It’s important to be aware of the signs that your INFINITI may need a wheel alignment. If your steering wheel tugs or pulls to one side while driving straight, it’s a clear indication of misalignment. Similarly, if your steering wheel is crooked when you’re driving straight, it’s time to get your alignment checked.

Other signs include excessive shaking or wobbling, particularly at certain speeds, and uneven tire wear. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to address them promptly. Ignoring misalignment can lead to more serious issues and potentially costly repairs.

Importance of Wheel Alignment

Ensuring your INFINITI’s wheels are properly aligned is critical for several reasons. Misalignment can lead to worn-out tires, which can affect your vehicle’s grip on the road and increase your braking distance. It can also cause issues with your steering and suspension systems due to excessive tension and wear.

Moreover, poor handling and road holding can result from misalignment, making your vehicle more difficult to control and thus potentially dangerous. For your safety and the overall health of your vehicle, alignment checks should be performed every 9,000 kilometers. They should also be carried out after serious events like hard braking due to encounters with wildlife or black ice, as these can jolt the wheels out of alignment.

In conclusion, regular wheel alignment checks are an essential part of maintaining your INFINITI. They not only prolong the life of your tires but also contribute to your vehicle’s overall performance and safety. Be mindful of the signs of misalignment and ensure your vehicle gets checked regularly to enjoy a smoother and safer drive.