Is the steering wheel of a new car slightly biased to the right when it leaves the factory?
4 Answers
No. Reasons for the steering wheel being biased to the right: If the vehicle only slightly drifts to the right: Considering road design factors, it is actually difficult to notice with the naked eye. In fact, on flat ordinary roads, the center is higher than the sides to reduce water accumulation during rain. However, if the car's direction drifts severely: Then the owner needs to be alert. First, check the tire pressure. If the tire pressure on both sides is unbalanced, the car will naturally drift to the side with lower pressure when driving on flat roads. Additionally, the vehicle should have its tire positions rotated regularly: Because the wear on the drive wheels will be greater than on the other wheels, and neglecting this can also cause the car to drift. Furthermore, inconsistent tread wear on both sides of the tires can also lead to the car drifting.
I've driven quite a few new cars, and it's true that some have a slight rightward tilt in the steering wheel, though not all. This could be due to improper wheel alignment before leaving the factory, slight tolerances, or deformation of the suspension system during transport. During the break-in period of a new car, driving more on highways might help it naturally correct itself. If the steering wheel noticeably tilts to the right and isn't centered, the car body tends to drift, leading to uneven tire wear on one side, which affects handling and safety. It's advisable to do a free road test after taking delivery of a new car. If any issues are found, go to the 4S shop early for a wheel alignment adjustment—they handle it quickly and hassle-free. Also, pay attention to your driving posture; avoid sitting crookedly while driving, as habitual movements can create the illusion that the steering isn't straight.
When I bought my first new car, I also noticed the steering wheel was slightly tilted to the right, which made me quite nervous. I consulted some car-savvy friends, and they said there was no need to overreact, as many new cars have this issue. Later, I went to the dealership to have the wheel alignment checked, and after the adjustment, the problem was resolved. Beginners often overlook this, but if the steering wheel remains misaligned for too long, it can cause uneven tire wear, leading to faster deterioration and additional expenses for tire replacement. It's important to test drive the car before purchasing to check if the steering wheel is centered. I recommend checking the alignment during regular maintenance to avoid future troubles.
A right-leaning steering wheel is common in new cars but not a factory standard. Causes include suspension misalignment, uneven tire pressure, or assembly deviations. Quick check: On level ground, release the steering wheel to see if it automatically turns right. If the deviation is noticeable, promptly perform a wheel alignment correction. Ignoring this may lead to vehicle drift and accelerated tire wear.
