Is It a Big Deal If the Steering Wheel Is Not Straight When Parking?

[LaJasmine]

Parking with the steering wheel not straightened has significant impacts, including: 1. Uneven tire force distribution, accelerating the aging and deformation of tire sidewalls, leading to air leakage or blowouts; 2. Accelerated aging or deformation of steering mechanism components, causing vehicle deviation and uneven tire wear; 3. Aging of shock-absorbing rubber in the suspension system, resulting in play at the connection points of suspension arms and links—the greater the play, the more severe the suspension system wear. Methods to avoid leaving the steering wheel unstraightened: 1. Observe the steering wheel angle after parking; 2. Judge based on the number of steering wheel turns; 3. Adjust by moving the vehicle forward or backward; 4. Stick your head out the window to observe the tire angle.

[StJuliana]

Leaving the steering wheel unturned when parking does have significant impacts. As someone who frequently handles the wheel, I believe this habit can harm the car. Small components in the steering system, such as tie rods and ball joints, endure extra stress if the wheels are parked at an angle for long periods. Gravity pulls on them, keeping them taut, which over time can lead to wear or deformation—repairs for these aren’t cheap. I’ve seen many cars develop squeaks during turns due to this, costing thousands in repairs. This issue is especially pronounced when parking on slopes. Developing the simple habit of straightening the wheel every time you park can extend part longevity, saving both money and hassle. Plus, your car won’t jerk sideways when starting, making driving smoother and safer. Ignoring it is like adding strain to your car’s joints, affecting overall driving quality. A small action prevents big trouble.

[BenjaminLynn]

I've been driving for many years, and now with family car usage requiring careful budgeting, the impact is quite significant. Parking with wheels misaligned can cause uneven tire wear, putting excessive pressure on either the inner or outer side of the tires. Within a few months, the tread on one side might wear out completely, necessitating premature replacement. Considering that a single tire costs hundreds or even thousands of yuan, it's such a waste. I was lazy once, and ended up with severe uneven tire wear, requiring more frequent replacements. Whether parking at home or in a parking lot, it's advisable to always straighten the steering wheel. Safety is also crucial; starting the car with misaligned wheels might cause it to veer suddenly, potentially hitting roadside objects or other vehicles. Developing this habit can save you from unexpected risks and additional expenses.

[Casey]

When I first started learning to drive, I didn't pay attention to the misaligned steering wheel. Once, after parking, I forgot to straighten it. When I started the car, it suddenly veered sideways and nearly hit a fence, giving me a real scare. Since then, I've realized how significant the impact can be. The main issue is the major safety hazard: with wheels crooked, the direction becomes uncontrollable at the moment of starting, especially on slopes or roadside, increasing the risk of accidents. The vehicle also suffers, as the steering components endure prolonged twisting forces, shortening their lifespan. I advise beginners to develop good habits: always check if the wheels are straight when parking and take an extra second to correct them. Protect yourself—don't be lazy.