Does this sound familiar? It’s a beautiful day out, the Maryland humidity has finally subsided, and you’re in your car with the windows down and your favorite drink in the cupholder. The smell of Old Bay is in the air and the crabfest is about to start. The entire way, even on the clearest back roads and straightaways, the car shakes uncontrollably and you can’t let go of the steering wheel without the car veering to the side.
This is a sign you need a suspension and alignment check at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring.
Your suspension and alignment may go out due to hitting too many potholes, rubbing constantly into curbs, getting into a fender bender, or having a bad tire installation. We can help.
Reduce the shaking, ride straighter, and enjoy a smooth ride with a suspension and alignment check in Silver Spring. It makes all the difference when it comes to travel, commuting, and enjoying your daily drive.
Why Maryland Drivers Need Regular Alignment Checks in Silver Spring
Road Safety
When your car pulls to one side or shakes while driving, something is likely wrong with your alignment. When your alignment is bad, it means the wheels aren’t pointing the right way, and this means your steering doesn’t respond when you try to go straight.
A bad tire alignment can cause you to lose control, especially in the rain or snow. Regular alignment checks keep your car driving straight and safe.
Save Money on Repairs
When your wheels are out of line, other parts of your car wear out faster. This can lead to expensive problems with tires, brakes, or the suspension system. Getting your alignment checked at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care can help catch problems early, so you don’t end up paying for costly suspension repairs later. A good alignment means better suspension.
Better Gas Mileage
A car with bad alignment works harder to move forward. That means it uses more gas and reduces you fuel efficiency. If you are noticing you are not getting the same gas mileage as before with your car, a quick check of your tire alignment can help you save money and prevent the problem from getting worse.
What Is a Vehicle’s Suspension and Why It Matters
What Is a Suspension System?
The suspension system in your vehicle is what helps your car stay smooth and steady when you drive. It includes the shocks, springs, and tires. Your suspension keeps the tires touching the road and helps you stay in control when steering. A broken suspension can cause a very bumpy and rough ride that is uncomfortable and dangerous.
Signs You Need Suspension Repairs
- Car rides are bouncy
- The car dips forward when you hit the brakes
- You hear clunking or squeaking noises when driving
- One corner of your car sits lower than the others
- The steering feels loose or hard to control
If you notice any of these, it’s time for a visit to Hoffmaster’s Auto Care for suspension repairs.
What Is a Wheel Alignment and Why Should I Get Regular Alignment Checks
What is a Wheel Alignment?
A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your tires so they match your car’s setup. The goal is to make sure the tires sit straight, point in the right direction, and touch the road evenly.
Without a wheel alignment, your tires may slightly point in different directions or be uneven, making steering harder and drives uncomfortable or dangerous.
There are three main parts to an alignment:
Camber – the angle of the wheels when looking from the front
Toe – how much the tires point inward or outward
Caster – the tilt of the steering axis
Signs You Need an Alignment
- Your car pulls to one side
- The steering wheel is off-center
- You notice uneven or fast tire wear
- The steering wheel vibrates
- You’ve recently hit a pothole or curb
If you’ve had any of these happen, look for alignments near me or head straight to Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD.
How Often Should I Get Alignment Checks
You should get your alignment checked in Maryland once a year or every 12,000 miles, whatever happens sooner. Those who travel often or commute a lot may notice they need an alignment check twice a year due to the extra wear and tear on the tires and suspension system.
You should also get an alignment check if you drive often on rough roads or roads under construction, hit a lot of potholes or curbs, or notice steering trouble like pulling, vibrating, or unable to control the car.
At Hoffmaster’s Auto Care, we can do a quick alignment check in Silver Spring to see if your car needs adjustments. It’s an easy way to protect your car and stay safe without risking your suspension going bad.
Why Choose Hoffmaster’s Auto Care for Alignments in Silver Spring
At Hoffmaster’s Auto Care, we care about you and your car. We focus on honest inspections, fair pricing, and fast repairs so you are never waiting long.
Our team is trained to handle suspension repairs and alignment checks with care and skill and we are ASE-certified. Whether your car is bouncing like a trampoline or pulling like a tug-of-war, we can fix it.
How Long Can I Wait for Suspension and Alignment Repairs
Ignoring your car’s suspension or alignment problems is like ignoring a wobbly table—it only gets worse! All of this can lead to expensive repairs—or worse, a crash. Regular checks can stop this from happening! Stay ahead of alignment and suspension problems that include:
- Faster tire wear
- Steering becomes dangerous and uncontrollable
- The car may bounce or sway
- Gas mileage declines
- Higher risk of an accident
Keep Your Car in Line with Alignment Checks at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care
Driving around Maryland is fun, with the beautiful weather and peaceful farms—unless your car isn’t driving right. Wobbly wheels, bouncy rides, or a steering wheel that shakes are all signs you need suspension repairs or an alignment check.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! At Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD, we make sure your car is safe, smooth, and ready for the road. Whether you’re heading to school, the grocery store, or a beach trip, you can count on us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my car needs suspension repair?
Signs you need suspension repairs include a bouncy ride, the car dipping forward when braking, clunking or squeaking noises, one corner sitting lower than the others, and loose or hard-to-control steering. Do not wait, these signs can pose a dangerous risk of accidents when on the road.
How do I know I need a wheel alignment?
If your car pulls to the side, the steering wheel shakes, or your tires wear out unevenly, it’s time for an alignment check.
How long does a wheel alignment take?
An alignment usually takes about 1 hour. You can relax in our waiting area while we work.
How often should I get a wheel alignment check in Maryland?
You should get an alignment check once a year or every 12,000 miles—whichever comes first. If you drive on rough roads or commute often, twice a year may be necessary, especially with frequent construction on 695 and nearby routes.
What happens if I wait for an alignment check?
Poor alignment can cause uneven tire wear, reduced gas mileage, dangerous steering, a bouncy or swaying ride, and increased risk of an accident.
Why is Hoffmaster’s Auto Care a good choice for alignment and suspension services?
Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring offers honest inspections, fair pricing, fast service, and ASE-certified technicians skilled in suspension and alignment repairs.
What causes suspension or alignment issues in Maryland drivers’ cars?
Common causes include potholes, curb hits, fender benders, and improper tire installations, all of which can throw off your car’s suspension or alignment.
Hoffmaster's Auto Care
Our mission at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is to provide our customers with the highest level of car repair service and expertise, delivered with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD has been in business for more than 40 years. All our technicians are ASE certified. You can rely on our experience and knowledge for high-quality auto repair and maintenance services.
