When it comes to maintaining your Subaru or any vehicle, regular wheel alignment is often an overlooked yet essential service. A well-aligned vehicle ensures smooth handling, increased tire lifespan, and enhanced safety, especially on Southern California’s busy roads. Since 1982, Rallysport Engineering, located in Costa Mesa, has been the go-to Subaru specialist, providing quality auto care to drivers throughout Orange County and South County, CA. With decades of experience and advanced alignment technology, Rallysport Engineering delivers unmatched precision in wheel alignment for Subarus and other vehicle makes and models.
What Is Wheel Alignment, and Why Does It Matter?

Wheel alignment, or tracking, involves adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels to meet the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment keeps your vehicle stable and easy to handle, improving fuel efficiency and protecting your tires from uneven wear. During an alignment service, skilled technicians like those at Rallysport Engineering adjust the wheel angles to ensure they’re perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other, promoting optimal driving conditions.
Some benefits of proper wheel alignment include:
- Better Fuel Efficiency
Misaligned wheels create resistance and drag, causing the engine to work harder. Proper alignment can help you get the best possible gas mileage. - Reduced Tire Wear
Wheels that aren’t aligned correctly wear unevenly, which can lead to premature tire replacement. Keeping your wheels aligned preserves your tires, saving you money over time. - Enhanced Handling and Safety
Properly aligned wheels ensure that your vehicle handles predictably and safely, especially during sudden maneuvers. - Smoother Ride Quality
Misaligned wheels can cause your vehicle to pull to one side or vibrate, which leads to an uncomfortable driving experience. Proper alignment improves overall ride quality.
Signs Your Subaru Might Need a Wheel Alignment
Your vehicle might need a wheel alignment if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Pulling to One Side
If your car drifts to the left or right on a straight road, misalignment could be the cause. - Uneven Tire Wear
If you notice uneven wear patterns on your tires, it’s time to get an alignment check. - Steering Wheel Misalignment
A steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight could be a sign of misalignment. - Vibrating Steering Wheel
If your steering wheel vibrates or shudders, this could indicate misaligned wheels or even other suspension issues.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to get your alignment checked as soon as possible. Driving on misaligned wheels can lead to greater damage over time, increasing repair costs and compromising safety.
Rallysport Engineering: Precision Alignment for Subaru and More
As a trusted Subaru specialist, Rallysport Engineering goes beyond the basics of wheel alignment. Our team in Costa Mesa has over 40 years of experience and uses advanced equipment to provide highly accurate alignment services for Subarus and other vehicles. We follow Subaru’s unique specifications and align each wheel with precision to ensure your car handles exactly as it should. Here’s what sets our wheel alignment service apart:
- Advanced Alignment Equipment
Rallysport Engineering invests in the latest technology, such as computer-guided alignment systems, that allow us to measure wheel angles with extreme precision. This technology ensures that we meet exact specifications for Subaru models and other vehicles. - Specialized Knowledge of Subaru Models
Our technicians know the intricacies of Subaru vehicles, from the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system to the unique suspension geometry. This knowledge allows us to provide a tailored alignment that enhances Subaru handling and performance. - Comprehensive Inspection
Before any alignment adjustments, our technicians perform a thorough inspection of your suspension and steering components. We ensure everything is in good shape before aligning your wheels, so your alignment lasts longer. - Customer-Centric Approach
We believe in transparent, honest service. Our team will walk you through the process, explain any issues we find, and give you a clear understanding of the work we recommend. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction.
The Wheel Alignment Process at Rallysport Engineering
Here’s what you can expect when you bring your Subaru or other vehicle to Rallysport Engineering for a wheel alignment:
- Initial Inspection
Our technicians start with a visual and hands-on inspection of the suspension, steering system, and tires. This ensures there are no underlying issues, such as worn ball joints or damaged tie rods, that could affect alignment. - Computerized Measurements
We use a state-of-the-art alignment machine that measures the camber, caster, and toe angles of each wheel. These measurements allow us to identify how far off each wheel is from the factory-specified angles. - Adjustments
Based on the measurements, our technicians make precise adjustments to bring each wheel back into alignment. For Subarus, we follow specific Subaru factory guidelines to optimize the vehicle’s handling characteristics. - Final Checks and Test Drive
After making adjustments, we double-check the alignment and take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything feels right. This final step confirms that your Subaru drives smoothly and remains aligned on the road.
How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?
It’s generally recommended to get a wheel alignment every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or at least once a year. However, certain driving conditions can make more frequent alignments necessary, including:
- Driving on rough roads or over potholes
- Going over speed bumps too quickly
- Experiencing a minor collision or hitting a curb
Frequent alignment checks are particularly important for Subaru owners who drive off-road or participate in performance driving, as these activities can easily throw wheels out of alignment.

Why Choose Rallysport Engineering for Your Wheel Alignment in Costa Mesa?
For Subaru owners and other vehicle drivers in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and South County, CA, Rallysport Engineering is the premier choice for wheel alignment and other essential services. Here’s why:
- Over 40 Years of Experience
We’ve been serving Southern California drivers since 1982, so you can trust our expertise and reputation for quality service. - Subaru Specialists
Our team has specialized knowledge in Subaru repairs, giving us unique insight into the best practices for Subaru maintenance. - Cutting-Edge Equipment
We use the latest alignment technology, ensuring that we meet precise specifications for all vehicles. - Friendly, Transparent Service
We believe in clear communication and provide honest recommendations, so you always know what’s happening with your vehicle.
Schedule Your Wheel Alignment with Rallysport Engineering
Proper wheel alignment is crucial for keeping your Subaru or any vehicle safe, efficient, and enjoyable to drive. If you’re experiencing symptoms of misalignment or are due for an alignment check, Rallysport Engineering in Costa Mesa is here to help. Our commitment to quality service and advanced alignment techniques makes us the top choice for Subaru wheel alignment in Orange County and South County, CA.
Call us today to schedule your wheel alignment or drop by our Costa Mesa location. We look forward to keeping your wheels aligned and your vehicle performing at its best!