Misaligned tires are an issue that happens to every car. Many car owners view it as an inconvenience, but it can be a problem that damages their vehicle significantly. To properly maintain your car, these are the top signs that your car needs a wheel alignment:
Off-Center Steering Wheel
One of the easiest ways to know if your vehicle requires wheel alignment is if your steering wheel is off-center. If the wheels are properly aligned, the steering wheel should be straight.
When the tires are misaligned, the steering wheel will have a slight tilt in the direction of the misalignment. Even if you try to adjust the steering wheel to the center, the car will veer in one direction.
Pulling To One Side
If the car automatically pulls to the left or the right when driving, it is a clear sign that you need a wheel alignment. When you hold the steering straight, the car will move slightly in one direction.
Pulling to one side is the most common way drivers know they need a wheel alignment. Many drivers only see it as an inconvenience. However, if they drive for too long with the car pulling to one side, it could lead to accidents and more car damage.
Uneven Wear and Tear
If you buy tires of the same age, make, and type, they should evenly wear out, but if your wheels are misaligned, they will wear out unevenly. The reason is that some parts of the tires will be more exposed to the road than others.
The performance of the vehicle will suffer with unevenly worn-out tires. They could also affect car safety.
If you need a wheel alignment, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Silverstar Automotive Solutions in Ottawa, ON today!