You'll know your car needs an alignment if it pulls to one side when you're driving on a straight, flat road, the steering wheel is off-center even when going straight, or you notice uneven or rapid tire wear. These are the most common and reliable indicators. Ignoring them can lead to unsafe handling and costly premature tire replacement.
A proper wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to the manufacturer's specifications. The three main angles are camber (the inward or outward tilt of the tire), toe (the direction the tires point relative to the center of the vehicle), and caster (the angle of your steering pivot). When these are out of spec, the symptoms become apparent.
Beyond the obvious pulling, pay attention to your steering wheel. It should be perfectly centered when driving straight. If it's tilted to the left or right, it's a clear sign of misalignment. Also, check your tires. Feathered wear (smooth on one side, sharp on the other) or excessive wear on one shoulder of the tire are classic signs.
It's also smart to get an alignment after any significant impact, like hitting a large pothole or curb, or after installing new tires to ensure they wear evenly. Most experts recommend having your alignment checked annually or with every oil change as a preventative measure.
| Common Alignment Issue | Symptom | Typical Cause |
|---|
| Incorrect Toe | Feathering on tire edges, saw-tooth wear pattern | Often a gradual shift from normal driving |
| Incorrect Camber | Excessive wear on one shoulder of the tire | Often caused by hitting a curb or pothole |
| Combination Issue | Vehicle pulling and uneven tire wear | Worn suspension components or impact |
| Thrust Angle Misalignment | The car seems to be "crab-walking" | Rear wheel misalignment on a solid axle vehicle |
