Minor auto impacts such as potholes and running over a curb can lead to misaligned wheels and issues that are hard to diagnose. If your car is showing any concerning signs, a quick alignment test can be performed in an auto repair shop. Griff’s Auto Service in Rochester, NY, is an auto service center with a friendly team that can help you when in doubt. The shop is AAA-approved, family-operated, and has been serving the local community for 28 years. Check out a few of the most common signs of alignment issues below.

Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment

1. Uneven Tire Wear

Unusual tire patterns like extra wear on one side of a tire may be a sign that your wheels need alignment. A professional technician can read the abnormal wear and relate it to alignment issues, tire pressure, or another condition, and then perform the necessary tests to confirm the problem. 

2. Vehicle Pulls to One Side

This sign is easy to spot when you are driving straight on a leveled road. The vehicle should be able to keep straight with little to no effort from you on the steering wheel. If your vehicle pulls hard to the left or right and it takes a lot of effort to keep it straight, this is a sign of significant misalignment and it probably requires professional auto services.

3. Off-center Steering Wheel

Another sign is when your steering wheel does not return to perfect center after a turn or curve in the road. If your wheel is off-center by a few degrees, your car will likely not stay straight if you let go of it for a moment. Have an alignment test performed to fix this problem.

4. Steering Wheel Vibration

Running over a curb or a pothole can misalign one or more of your wheels, causing them to pull independently in different directions and making the steering wheel vibrate. The vibration can be strong or barely noticeable, but it can put significant strain on the tires and decrease fuel efficiency.

Take care of your car so it can continue to take you to your favorite places. To take advantage of master mechanics with 45 years of experience, call Griff’s Auto Service at (585) 227-8700 or visit them online. You can also follow them on Facebook for auto repair tips.