Tires & Alignment Services in Tacoma & University Place, WA
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touch the road, and their condition affects everything from safety to fuel economy. At McCabe’s Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians provide thorough tire inspections, rotations, and wheel alignment services to keep you safe and extend the life of your tires. Serving University Place, Tacoma, and the South Sound since 1972, we’re here to ensure your car handles smoothly in all driving conditions.
Proper Tire Maintenance is Crucial
Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safety and vehicle performance. It involves regular checks of tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition, along with timely rotations and wheel alignment. These practices help ensure even wear, prevent blowouts, and maximize tire lifespan. While McCabe’s doesn’t sell tires, our technicians provide thorough inspections, spot early signs of uneven wear, and perform precision alignments to keep your vehicle handling smoothly. In the Northwest, where slick roads and potholes are common, staying ahead of tire and alignment care is the best way to avoid surprises on the road.
McCabe’s Tire & Alignment Services
Whether you need routine tire rotations or a precision wheel alignment, McCabe’s Automotive has the expertise to keep your vehicle safe, efficient, and handling at its best.
Tire Services
Rotate every 5,000 miles, check pressures monthly, and inspect tread depth to stay safe in Washington’s wet conditions. We’ll spot uneven wear early and advise next steps.
Wheel Alignment
Correct pulling, crooked steering wheels, and uneven wear with precision alignment that improves handling, extends tire life, and helps fuel efficiency.
Why Choose McCabe’s Automotive?
Family-owned and operated in University Place since 1972
ASE-certified technicians
Upfront pricing, honest recommendations
4.5+ star average rating on Google
“Excellent service. Donovan took the time to listen to all of my concerns and offered reassurance that they could do the work correctly. I am impressed. This is a very professional shop. Will definitely be returning.”
— Jeff S, 5-Star Google Review
FAQs About Tire & Alignment Service
Your tires and wheel alignment play a crucial role in safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. If you’ve ever wondered how often to rotate your tires, when to replace them, or what pulling to one side means, these answers can help you stay ahead of problems.
Tire Maintenance Questions
Tire service isn’t just about avoiding flats — it ensures your car grips the road properly in wet Pacific Northwest conditions. Here are the most common questions drivers ask about tire service.
- How often should I rotate my tires? About every 5,000 miles, or roughly every other oil change. Rotating tires regularly keeps tread wear even and extends tire life.
- How do I know if my tires need replacing? If tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch, or you notice cracking, bulges, or cords showing, it’s time to replace them. We can check tread depth for you during service.
- Does tire pressure really make a difference? Yes. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and cause premature wear, while overinflated tires reduce traction. Check pressures monthly, including your spare.
- Why are my tires wearing unevenly? Uneven wear often signals alignment, suspension, or inflation issues. Catching it early prevents premature tire replacement and improves safety.
Wheel Alignment Concerns
Wheel alignment keeps your tires meeting the road at the proper angle. When alignment drifts out, your tires, suspension, and even your brakes are affected. These FAQs cover the signs.
- What are signs my car needs an alignment? Common symptoms include pulling to one side, a crooked steering wheel, or uneven tire wear. You may also notice the car drifting on straight roads.
- Can alignment affect fuel efficiency? Yes. Misaligned wheels increase rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.
- Why does my steering wheel shake at higher speeds? A shaking front end can mean misalignment, worn suspension components, or tire balance issues. An inspection will pinpoint the cause.
- Is it dangerous to drive with bad alignment? Yes. Poor alignment compromises handling, increases stopping distances, and can lead to sudden tire failure if ignored.
Tire & Alignment Service Timing
Knowing when to schedule service helps you avoid costly tire replacements and ensures a safer, smoother ride.
- How often should I get an alignment check? At least once a year, or anytime you notice pulling, uneven tread wear, or after hitting a large pothole or curb.
- Do I need an alignment with new tires? It’s strongly recommended. Aligning your wheels with fresh tires ensures they wear evenly from the start, protecting your investment.
- Should I check alignment after suspension repairs? Absolutely. Anytime steering or suspension components are replaced, an alignment is needed to restore proper handling.
- Can alignment issues damage my brakes? Indirectly, yes. Misalignment prevents even braking, which increases stopping distances and creates extra stress on suspension and brake components.
