Aligning your tires should be part of a regular car maintenance routine. However, it’s often overlooked since car owners aren’t always aware of how misaligned tires look or feel. If your car is experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule a tire alignment. 

How to Tell if Your Tires Need to Be Aligned 

1. Uneven Wear 

The tread wear patterns can give you clues about whether the tires are working in sync or if something is off. When tires are misaligned, certain spots may get worn down before others. Check each wheel closely to look for abnormal patterns. For example, wear on only the inside or outside of the edge of the tires can indicate an alignment problem. 

2. Vehicle Pull 

If your tires are off, the vehicle may drift slightly to one side or the other even if you’re not steering left or right. This tendency can affect your car’s handling, which may make driving unsafe.

If you feel like your car is pulling to one side, it’s essential to schedule a tire alignment so that you’re in full control of the vehicle.

3. Steering Wheel Sits Improperly 

While driving, your steering wheel should naturally return to a center resting point after turns. You’ll aid this return with your hands as you steer, but if the wheel doesn’t budge at all on its own, this can indicate that there is a tire alignment problem that blocks the steering wheel from moving smoothly. 

4. Steering Wheel Vibration

With aligned tires, your steering wheel should remain still while driving. If the movement is out of sync, you may notice a slight or severe vibration, especially at high speeds. This happens because the tires are pulling in different directions, which throws off the car’s movement. This sensation is uncomfortable and may be dangerous since it can impact your car’s handling. 

If you suspect that your tires need to be aligned, the professionals at Tony’s Auto Services in Middletown, OH, can help. They’ve served the Greater Cincinnati area with a variety of vehicle needs, including brake services, engine repairs, and tire work since the 1980s. Browse their services online or call (513) 422-8371 to schedule an appointment.