5 Symptoms of Bad Wheel Alignment
In this article you will learn about 5 Symptoms of Bad Wheel Alignment
Have you ever driven down a straight road, only to feel your car to slowly veer off to the one side? No, you’re not falling asleep at the wheel; this is probably being caused by a crooked steering wheel.
Out-of-whack wheel alignment is far more common than most people realize and is a simple fix if taken to the right professional.
Here are 5 symptoms that point to a much-needed wheel alignment check-up and why it’s important.
1. A Crooked Steering Wheel
As we mentioned, a crooked steering wheel will most likely cause your car to drift either left or right, depending on your level of wheel misalignment.
Essentially, a crooked steering wheel indicates that the toe angle of your tires is either pointing inwards or outwards and not straight, as it should be.
A crooked toe angle is usually caused by worn steering components.
2. Vehicle Drift
If your vehicle mysteriously begins to drift to one side as you’re driving, this is a sign that your camber or caster angle is out-of-line. Basically, this points to an issue with your car’s suspension.
Alternatively, this can also point to a problem with your tire. You could be driving with an under-inflated tire, a tire that’s the incorrect size, or a tire with internal belt separation.
If your vehicle pulls in both directions, at random, this signals a major issue with your suspension and steering parts.
3. Vehicle Vibration
If your steering wheel begins to vibrate dramatically once you reach a certain speed, this is a sign your wheel alignment is out.
Some of the most common causes are an out-of-place caster angel, worn suspension parts, unbalanced tires or warped brake rotors.
4. Unusual Vehicle Noises
It’s not uncommon to hear some form of noise coming from your vehicle while you’re driving (except if it’s a Tesla!). But if these noises are a little louder or foreign to you, then it’s time to have your wheel alignment checked.
Noises such as loud clanking, banging, squeaking, or knocking could point to loose or worn steering and suspension components.
5. Uneven Tire Wear
Finally, another common way to tell if you have an alignment problem is with uneven wear on your tires.
If your suspension and steering are both on-point, then naturally, the next place to look is your tire wear and tear. Shoulder wear is the most common form of wear for car tires. However, if one side of a tire is wearing faster than the other, this point to misalignment issues.
If your tire is wearing faster on the outside, this means your camber angle is too positive. If it’s wearing faster on the inside, your camber angle is too negative.
Why is Wheel Alignment Important?
Keeping the tires on your car properly aligned is important for a variety of reasons.
But in short, it helps to improve the fuel economy of your vehicle and to extend the lifespan of your tires. It also makes for a smoother, safer ride in your vehicle and less wear and tear on your vehicle, overall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my steering wheel crooked?
The single-biggest reason why your car’s steering wheel may be crooked is that the wheels will probably be misaligned and will have to undergo a professional wheel alignment job. Immediately, if possible. In technical terms, this is referred to as an ‘off-center’ steering. It is a highly dangerous condition, and you must be extremely careful while driving down to a nearby repair bay. All 4 wheels need to be aligned and balanced as well using sophisticated machinery. It is best to consult your local garage where service agents will aid you.
How do you fix a crooked steering wheel?
The simple answer to this question is a wheel alignment session. That is the only way to fix the issue. Once all the wheels have been aligned and properly balanced at a reputed service station, the car will behave normally and there will be no noticeable angle at which the steering wheel will be bent at. There is no other way to fix a crooked steering barring a professionally managed alignment session. Nowadays, there are high-end machines like Hunter’s which use Laser lights to fix these angles.
How much does it cost to fix a crooked steering wheel?
Ideally, the cost should be anything between $100 and $300, depending on the duration and nature of the alignment process. It also depends on the type of equipment which is being used to finish the work. Another aspect is the number of wheels which are being mended. Sometimes, only aligning 2 wheels does the job and ensures that the steering wheel is completely straight. However, at times, you will have to get the complete 4-wheel alignment done, which costs significantly more. Ensure you complete the process at a reliable service centre.
Is it bad to drive with a crooked steering wheel?
It is dangerous to drive around with a crooked steering column. It is risky, will reduce your fuel mileage, decrease braking effectiveness, and be an overall nuisance. It is a considerable safety hazard. It may also be illegal in certain areas and countries. Therefore, whenever you have a doubt about the condition of the steering wheel, always ensure that you visit the local service station. Only professional and trained personnel can handle wheel alignment and balancing aspects. If possible, get the wheels checked at regular intervals for any prospective damage and get your chances of onroad accidents down to zero!
