Wheel alignment issues are pretty common, and in many cases, they can even be dangerous. They can have you veering off the road in seconds, unable to control your vehicle, and they can put you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road in harm’s way.
Fortunately, wheel alignment issues typically don’t happen at the drop of a hat. They’re problems that build over time, and if you’re in-tune to your car’s behavior, you should be able to spot alignment problems long before they become a hazard to you or the ones you love.
Want to stay safe behind the wheel? Here are a few common wheel alignment issues to look out for:
- Pulling – When your alignment is off, it can cause your steering wheel to pull to one side or the other. You may even have to exert more physical effort to keep the wheel straight when driving down the road.
- Shaking – Along the same lines, alignment issues can also cause your steering wheel to shake, vibrating back and forth even when positioned straight.
- Uneven tire wear – Typical tire wear occurs on the front of the tires, and it’s usually because the driver failed to get their tires rotated properly. Wear that strays from this – showing up on the outside or inside edges, or only on one side of the vehicle – usually points to an alignment issue and should be looked at.
- Crooked steering wheel – Park your car with your wheels facing straight forward. Now, look at your steering wheel. Is it perfectly centered, with the logo upright and level? If not, your alignment is likely askew.
Wheel alignment issues are nothing to put off. If left alone, they can easily cause you to lose control or collide with another vehicle. Always have potential alignment issues looked at by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Think your car may have alignment issues? Come to a Brake Works location today for a full evaluation.
