When it comes to RV maintenance, alignment is one of those topics that doesn’t get discussed as often as oil changes or tire rotations. Some RV owners assume alignments are only necessary if they feel their vehicle pulling to one side, while others believe only motorhomes—not towable RVs—need them.
So, does your RV really need an alignment? Let’s bust some common myths about RV ownership and get to the truth.
Myth #1: If My RV Drives Straight, the Alignment Must Be Fine
Many RV owners believe that if their vehicle isn’t obviously pulling to one side, everything must be in perfect alignment. However, slight misalignments can be difficult to notice at first but may lead to excessive tire wear, uneven suspension strain, and reduced fuel efficiency over time.
Even if your RV appears to be driving straight, periodic alignment checks are essential to prevent costly repairs down the road.
Myth #2: Only Motorhomes Need Alignments—Towable RVs Don’t
It’s true that motorhomes require regular alignments, just like any other vehicle, but that doesn’t mean towable RVs are exempt. Travel trailers and fifth wheels also rely on properly aligned axles and suspension for safe handling and even tire wear.
If your towable RV feels unstable at high speeds, sways excessively, or wears through tires unevenly, it may be time for an axle alignment.
Myth #3: I Only Need an Alignment If I Hit a Pothole or Curb
While hitting a pothole or curb can certainly knock your RV out of alignment, regular wear and tear from long-distance driving can also cause gradual misalignment. Over time, road vibrations, uneven loads, and braking forces can shift your RV’s suspension and affect alignment.
Scheduling routine alignment checks helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive problems.
Myth #4: Alignments Are Just for Comfort, Not Necessity
Some RV owners think of alignments as a luxury service that only improves driving comfort. In reality, a misaligned RV can cause significant safety risks, including poor handling, reduced braking efficiency, and unpredictable steering.
Proper alignment ensures even weight distribution across all tires, improving fuel economy and reducing unnecessary strain on your suspension system.
When Should You Get an RV Alignment?
Even if you haven’t noticed any major handling issues, you should consider an RV alignment if:
- You’ve traveled long distances or through rough terrain
- Your tires are wearing unevenly or prematurely
- You experience excessive swaying or drifting
- Your RV feels unstable when braking or turning
Getting an alignment at least once a year, or whenever you install new tires or suspension components, is a good rule of thumb for maintaining safe travels.
Schedule Your RV Alignment at Ernie’s Inc.
At Ernie’s Inc. in Olympia, WA, we know how important proper alignment is for both safety and performance. Our expert technicians can assess your RV’s suspension, steering, and axles to ensure everything is in top condition before your next adventure.
Don’t wait for tire trouble to tell you there’s a problem! Schedule your RV alignment with Ernie’s Inc. today and hit the road with confidence.