How Do I Know if My Wheels Need to Be Aligned?

November 4, 2024

If you've noticed that your car doesn't feel quite right on the road, it might be time to consider a wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels can cause various issues, from safety concerns to costly repairs. Here are some common signs that indicate your wheels might need realignment:

1. Your Car Pulls to One Side

When you're driving straight and notice your car drifting to the left or right, it’s a telltale sign that your wheels need alignment. Proper alignment keeps your vehicle on track, reducing the need to constantly adjust your steering.

2. Uneven Tire Wear

If you see that your tires are wearing down unevenly, it could mean that the wheels are out of alignment. Proper alignment helps distribute the weight evenly across all tires, extending their lifespan and saving you money in the long run.

3. Steering Wheel Vibration

Feeling a vibration or shaking in your steering wheel can be caused by misalignment. When wheels are out of sync, they create a noticeable vibration, especially at higher speeds.

4. Crooked Steering Wheel

If your steering wheel isn’t centered when you're driving straight, this misalignment issue can impact vehicle handling and wear down your tires faster.

5. Recent Modifications or New Tires

Any changes to your vehicle, like installing new tires, a lift kit, or a lowering kit, will require a wheel alignment to ensure proper handling and reduce uneven tire wear.

Why Regular Alignment Checks Matter

Wheel alignment isn’t just about comfort; it plays a crucial role in your vehicle’s safety and performance. At Wayside Garage, we recommend alignment checks annually or every 10,000 miles as part of a proactive maintenance plan to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Need an Alignment Check?

If you're experiencing any of these signs, our certified technicians at Wayside Garage are here to help. Call us at (831)-899-2425 to schedule a comprehensive alignment check and keep your vehicle in top shape!

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ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.