1. Your Car Pulls to One Side
If you’re driving straight and your car starts drifting left or right, your alignment could be off. Be sure to check this on a flat, empty road. Don’t rely on crowned roads that naturally tilt.
2. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear
Tires should wear down evenly. If you notice the inside or outside of your tires are bald while the rest have tread left, that’s a big red flag for alignment issues.
3. Steering Wheel Is Off-Center
When you’re driving straight, your steering wheel should be centered. If it’s cocked at an angle, even slightly, that’s a common indicator that your wheels aren’t aligned correctly.
4. Vibrating Steering Wheel
Vibration or shaking in the wheel, especially at highway speeds, may signal misalignment or other problems like unbalanced tires or suspension wear.
5. Trouble Staying in Your Lane
Does your vehicle feel “loose” or like you’re constantly correcting your steering to stay in your lane? A misaligned vehicle often feels unstable or unpredictable.
What Causes Misalignment?
You don’t have to hit a giant pothole to throw your wheels out of line, though that’ll definitely do it. Other causes include:
- Hitting curbs
- Driving over rough roads or debris
- Suspension wear and tear
- Accidents or fender benders
- Modifying your ride height without proper adjustments
Why Alignment Matters
A bad alignment might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can lead to serious issues over time:
Longer tire life – Uneven wear = more frequent replacements
Better fuel efficiency – Misalignment creates rolling resistance, which burns more gas
Improved safety – A car that handles correctly is safer, especially in emergencies
Smoother ride – Less vibration, drifting, or fighting the wheel
How Often Should I Get an Alignment?
A good rule of thumb is to check your alignment at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or sooner if you notice any of the signs above. It’s also smart to have it checked after getting new tires, suspension work, or hitting something hard (like a pothole).
Need a Wheel Alignment? Honest Wrenches Has You Covered.
If your car is drifting, chewing through tires, or just doesn’t feel right, don’t wait for things to get worse. At Honest Wrenches, we use state-of-the-art equipment to check your alignment and make precision adjustments that restore your vehicle to factory specs.
Schedule your wheel alignment today and drive straight, smooth, and safe.