1. Uneven Tire Wear
Check to see if your front tires appear to have the same wear patterns. Then do the same for the back tires. If they appear to be the same, your car is likely aligned. When having your car serviced, ask the mechanic to check the tread. They will be able to spot possible misalignment issues.
2. Vehicle Pulls Sharply in One Direction
As previously mentioned, this could be the case of underinflated tires. But if your tire pressure is correct and the vehicle still pulls in one direction, it is a sign you might need to have your wheels realigned.
3. Slight Pulling
This is less noticeable than the sharp pulling that occurs with a severely misaligned vehicle. One way to check if your car has a gentle pull is by finding a vacant parking lot that does not sit at an angle. While driving slowly in a straight line, release the steering wheel. If the car drifts to either direction it is likely misaligned.
4. Steering Wheel Vibration
While this could be the result of an unbalanced tire, steering wheel vibration can at times be a sign your vehicle needs to be realigned. The vibration, in terms of alignment issues, is the result of your tires pulling in opposite directions of each other.
5. Crooked Steering Wheel
Always pay close attention to your steering wheel use. You may be subconsciously correcting for a misaligned vehicle by driving with your steering wheel off-center. If you notice this is happening, it is another sign that your wheels need to be realigned.
The misalignment symptoms above are just some of the signs your vehicle needs realignment. Alignment is something worth asking your local Pep Boys specialist about, regardless of obvious signs, if you haven’t done so in a while. Checking your vehicle’s alignment is free and if repairs need to take place, you have multiple service options. Don’t forget, in the long run, a properly aligned car will save you money.
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