Why Alignment Matters for Your Truck or Bus

During this initial phase, key components such as bushings, springs, and fasteners naturally settle as the vehicle begins operating under real conditions. This can slightly shift alignment and, if not corrected early, lead to uneven tire wear and handling issues.

Ongoing Alignment Recommendations

After the initial alignment, a consistent maintenance schedule is key:

• Medium-duty trucks (Class 6): every ~80,000 miles
• Heavy-duty trucks (Class 7): every ~90,000 miles
• Tractor-trailers (Class 8): every ~100,000 miles

These intervals often align with steer tire replacement cycles, helping maximize tire life and performance.

When Should You Check Alignment?

At Sedam Tire, we recommend checking alignment whenever you notice:

• Uneven or irregular tire wear
• Steering wheel not centered
• Truck pulling to one side
• Increased fuel consumption
• Driver complaints about handling
• Recent damage or replacement of suspension/steering components

Common Causes of Misalignment

Alignment issues don’t always start where they appear. While steer tires often show the first signs, the root cause may come from:

• Drive axles (most common)
• Trailer axles
• Suspension components such as worn bushings
• Bent or damaged parts (tie rods, spring hangers)

External factors like heavy loads, potholes, and curb impacts can accelerate these problems.

How to Identify Tire Wear Patterns

Your tires tell the story of your alignment:

• Cupping: Indicates suspension or balance issues
• Feathering: Often caused by incorrect toe settings
• One-sided wear: May point to camber or structural misalignment

If your tires are wearing evenly and lasting as expected, it’s a strong sign your alignment is on track.

Keep Your Fleet Performing at Its Best

At Sedam Tire, we help our customers stay proactive with alignment checks, tire inspections, and maintenance strategies that reduce costs and extend tire life.

Simple actions, like maintaining proper tire pressure and monitoring early warning signs, can make a significant difference in your fleet’s performance and profitability.

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t wait until it impacts your costs and performance. Our team at Sedam Tire is here to help.