Wheel Alignment

Why it matters

Alignment is the set of angles that decide where your wheels point relative to each other and to the road. Hit enough potholes — and Colorado gives you plenty — and those angles drift. Misaligned wheels scrub sideways as you drive, which fights your steering and wears the tires in a hurry.

Signs it is time

• The car drifts or pulls to one side on a straight road
• Steering wheel is off-center while driving straight
• Front tires wearing on the inner or outer edge
• You just replaced tires, struts, or hit a curb hard
• Uneven tread wear between the left and right side

If you wait

A set of tires can be eaten in a few thousand miles. Alignment is also how you protect the money you just spent on new tires — most shops recommend checking it with any tire or suspension work.