A Range Rover, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz or other European vehicle can develop uneven tire wear or a change in steering feel. Those symptoms deserve an inspection, but they do not automatically mean the vehicle needs a wheel alignment.

Signs to Have the Alignment Checked

• The vehicle consistently pulls to one side on a level, straight road.
• The steering wheel sits off-center while driving straight.
• One edge of a tire wears faster than the rest of the tread.
• Handling changes after a curb strike, pothole impact or steering or suspension repair.

Tire pressure, tire condition, brakes and suspension components can cause similar symptoms. A pull that occurs mainly while braking, for example, calls for a brake inspection as well. The first step is to identify the cause before making an adjustment.

Alignment, Rotation and Balancing Are Different

Wheel alignment checks and adjusts wheel angles. Tire rotation moves tires between positions to help manage wear, while wheel balancing addresses how the tire and wheel assembly rotates. Rotating or balancing tires will not correct incorrect alignment angles.

Some Range Rover and Land Rover models have adjustable air suspension. When applicable, alignment measurements must follow the correct vehicle-specific ride-height procedure. A suspension fault needs its own diagnosis rather than an alignment adjustment alone.

Dr Auto Tech provides in-house wheel alignment, tire and balancing services at our Hermosa Beach shop. We specialize in Range Rover and Land Rover vehicles and also service other European makes. If you have noticed uneven wear or a change in handling, schedule an inspection or call (310) 379-4474.