Wheel Alignments
Wheel Alignment in Ozark, MO
Fast, Reliable Service to Keep You Driving Straight and Smooth
What Is Wheel Alignment and Why It Matters
When your vehicle pulls to one side while driving or you notice uneven tire wear patterns, your wheel alignment likely needs professional attention. At Mitchem Tire Company in Ozark, our certified technicians use state-of-the-art alignment machines to precisely adjust your vehicle’s toe, camber, caster angle, and thrust angle according to manufacturer specifications. Proper wheel alignment ensures your tires make optimal contact with the road surface, extending tire life and improving fuel efficiency. Our alignment rack can accommodate most vehicle types, from compact cars to light trucks, providing accurate measurements and adjustments. Vehicle pulling, steering wheel vibration, or an off-center steering wheel when driving straight are clear indicators that your alignment needs correction. We’ve been serving the Ozarks community since 1939, and our fourth-generation family-owned business understands how proper alignment affects both safety and your wallet. You can reach us at (417) 581-7855 to schedule your alignment service during our convenient hours.
Alignment Adjustments for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs
Our wheel alignment service begins with a thorough inspection of your steering and suspension components to identify any worn parts that could affect alignment accuracy. We examine ball joints, tie rod ends, control arms, and other critical suspension elements before placing your vehicle on our precision alignment equipment. The alignment machine measures your current toe, camber, and caster angle settings and compares them to your vehicle’s manufacturer specifications. Our technicians also check the thrust angle to ensure your rear wheels are properly aligned with the front wheels, preventing the vehicle from pulling or tracking incorrectly. If we discover worn steering components or suspension parts during the inspection, we’ll discuss replacement options to ensure your alignment holds properly. Squealing tires when turning or rapid edge wear often indicates alignment issues that our comprehensive service can resolve. Located at 855 North 17th Street, Ozark, MO 65721, we provide detailed alignment reports with before-and-after measurements. Our alignment service includes tire pressure adjustment and a brief test drive to verify proper steering response and vehicle tracking.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs Professional Alignment Service
Several warning signs indicate that your vehicle needs wheel alignment, and recognizing these symptoms early can save you money on premature tire replacement. Uneven tire wear patterns, particularly wearing on one edge of the tire tread, suggest alignment problems that need immediate correction. When your steering wheel sits off-center while driving straight, or you experience constant steering wheel vibration, these symptoms often point to alignment issues affecting your driving comfort and safety. Vehicle pulling to one side requires constant steering correction and indicates that toe or camber adjustments are necessary. If you’ve recently had suspension work performed, including strut replacement, spring installation, or steering component repairs, a four-wheel alignment ensures everything works together properly. Hitting potholes, curbs, or experiencing minor accidents can knock your alignment out of specification, making professional alignment checks essential. We’re open Mon – Fri: 8:00AM – 5:00PM and Sat: 8:00AM – 2:00PM, so we can accommodate your schedule. Our experienced team also provides tire rotation and tire balancing services to complement your alignment service and maximize tire performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wheel Alignment
How often should I get a wheel alignment?
Most vehicles benefit from alignment checks every 12,000 miles or annually, though driving conditions and suspension wear can affect this interval.
What’s the difference between front end alignment and four-wheel alignment?
Front-end alignment adjusts only the front wheels, while four-wheel alignment adjusts all four wheels and checks the thrust angle for optimal tracking.
Can wheel alignment fix my steering wheel vibration?
Alignment can resolve some steering vibrations, though tire balancing or suspension issues might also contribute to steering wheel shaking.
How long does a wheel alignment take?
Most alignment services take 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your vehicle type and any necessary suspension component adjustments.
Will alignment service improve my gas mileage?
Proper alignment reduces rolling resistance and tire drag, thereby improving fuel efficiency and extending tire life.
