In most cases, finding a problem with your car is as easy as hooking your vehicle up to a diagnostic computer. Yet, some things, like the threat of a flat tire, still rely on your own senses. This is especially true for recognizing the early signs that your vehicle needs a wheel alignment. This guide will help you identify those signs so you can avoid the more severe problems that misalignment can cause.

How to Tell If Your Car Is Misaligned

1. The Steering Wheel Is Off-Center

Assuming you don’t have a flat tire, your vehicle should align evenly with the street. If you’re driving down a straight road, your steering wheel should be in a neutral position. It shouldn’t be turned at all. If the car’s logo at the center of the wheel is tilted to the left or right, your tires are misaligned.

2. The Vehicle Pulls to the Side 

If you’ve ever had a flat tire, you’ll know what it feels like to have the vehicle pull to one side or the other. This can also occur if your vehicle’s wheels are misaligned.

You can test the alignment by centering your vehicle on a straight road and straightening out the steering wheel. As you drive, the car should stay parallel to the street. If it slowly turns to the left or right, there is a problem with the wheel alignment.

3. The Tires Show Uneven Tread

Uneven tread can cause faster wear on the rubber and ultimately cause a blowout. Look for uneven tread. If your tires are more worn on certain parts than others, your car is misaligned and the wheels aren’t touching the ground as they should be.

If you notice feathering or cracking in the tread, you may need a mechanic to perform a toe adjustment. Tread that’s worn on the sides indicates a need for a camber adjustment. 

4. The Steering Wheel is Vibrating

Another obvious sign that there’s an issue with the vehicle’s alignment is a vibrating steering wheel. While it may be natural for the steering wheel to vibrate slightly on bumpy roads, a consistent vibration indicates that there’s a bigger problem. The vehicle’s suspension may be damaged, or you may need your front end aligned.

If your car is turning on its own, get it aligned at Cogswell Towing. They provide automotive repair services to customers in Russellville, Danville, and Morrilton, AR. They’ll be able to straighten out your car and get you back on the road in no time. They also provide towing, rental, and roadside assistance services if your car breaks down unexpectedly. To learn more about their services, visit them online. To request a tow, call (479) 968-4665.