Wheel Alignment and Front End Work
Chris Web • July 28, 2025
Repairing the loose front end

Front end work refers to the inspection, repair, or replacement of parts in the front suspension and steering system of a vehicle. This area includes components like tie rods, ball joints, control arms, bushings, shocks, struts, and the steering rack. These parts work together to help your vehicle steer properly, absorb road impacts, and keep the tires in correct contact with the road.
If something in the front end is worn or damaged, you might notice symptoms like clunking noises, uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, loose steering, vibrations, or poor handling. Common front end repairs include replacing worn ball joints, tightening or replacing tie rods, installing new control arm bushings, or replacing struts and shocks.
Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of a vehicle’s wheels so they match the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures that the vehicle drives straight, the steering feels stable, and the tires wear evenly. When a car is properly aligned, it handles better, uses less fuel, and helps extend the life of the tires.
There are three main alignment angles: camber, toe, and caster. Camber is the tilt of the wheel when looking at the car from the front. Toe is the angle the tires point inward or outward when viewed from above. Caster is the tilt of the steering axis when looking at the car from the side. If any of these angles are off, it can lead to issues like uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or a crooked steering wheel.
A car can fall out of alignment from things like hitting potholes, curbs, or just everyday wear. Signs that your vehicle might need an alignment include drifting to one side, steering that feels loose, or tires that wear more on one edge. Getting regular wheel alignment checks can help avoid these problems and keep your car running safely and smoothly.