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Home / Collision Repair News / Common Mistakes: Performing Wheel Alignments When Damage Still Exists

Common Mistakes: Performing Wheel Alignments When Damage Still Exists

Posted on 16 October 2019 | Share: | Print Print

When it comes to wheel alignments after a collision, a common mistake is not checking for structural or suspension damage that will affect wheel alignment.

The vehicle should be checked for suspension damage, as well as determining if structural damage is present. Suspension parts that are bent or damaged during a collision can have a huge effect on wheel alignment. The results of this damage can be that the vehicle:

  • May not align properly during a wheel alignment procedure due to damaged or out of place suspension parts or structure.
  • May appear to align properly at first, but as the vehicle is driven over time the tires will begin to show abnormal wear patterns.

Keep in mind that there are several quick checks and measurements that can be performed to diagnose which suspension parts are bent. The structure of the vehicle must also be three-dimensionally correct before any wheel alignment can be properly performed. Making sure all of the damage is removed will allow the vehicle to align properly to ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
Back-To-Basics: Three-Dimensional Measurements And Welding With Loaded Suspension
The Effects Of Wheel Alignment On ADAS
Three-Dimensional Measuring Equipment - Is It Really Necessary?

Related I-CAR Courses

Course Steering and Suspension Diagnostics

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