Is it okay to leave the wheels not straightened for a day?
2 Answers
Leaving the wheels not straightened for a day will have certain impacts on the car. The pressure on the sidewalls of the tires will increase because the car is tilted, and there is a constant straightening force acting on the tie rods, rack, and steering gear. Under the continuous action of these three forces without release, premature aging issues will occur over time. If the steering wheel is not straightened after parking, it means the tie rods are pulling the wheels and preventing them from resetting. At the same time, the steering gear and rack are also subjected to a corresponding straightening force. Although there may be no immediate impact in the short term, prolonged exposure to this condition will accelerate the wear of steering system components, leading to issues such as steering distortion and insufficient steering feedback.
Leaving the wheels turned for one day is generally not a big issue, especially when parked on level ground. The vehicle's suspension system has elasticity, and a temporary misalignment won't cause direct damage. However, if parked on a slope, misaligned wheels can increase lateral pressure on the tires and suspension, potentially leading to component fatigue or uneven tire wear over time if repeated frequently. I personally make it a habit to straighten the wheels to avoid developing bad habits, as keeping them aligned protects the power steering system and reduces potential repair costs. Once, I forgot to straighten the wheels overnight on a hill, and there were no immediate issues when driving, but prolonged neglect could increase the risk of wear on suspension components. Overall, skipping it once in a while is fine, but it's advisable to develop the habit of straightening the wheels every time you park to ensure safety.
