What are the reasons for the steering still being off after a wheel alignment?
2 Answers
The reasons for the steering still being off after a wheel alignment are: 1. Uneven tire pressure on both sides can cause the steering wheel to pull to one side while driving; 2. Abnormal tire wear, such as uneven tread wear, can also lead to steering wheel misalignment; 3. Suspension system faults, where interference between the movement of the suspension guide rods and the steering linkage can affect vehicle alignment. Wheel alignment ensures that the tires maintain the optimal angle with the vehicle body, improving grip while ensuring comfort. If abnormal vehicle behavior is ignored and wheel alignment is not performed, it not only significantly impacts safety but also greatly reduces the lifespan of the tires.
I had a wheel alignment done last month, but the steering wheel still tilts to the left, which is really annoying. It could be that the alignment equipment wasn't calibrated properly, or the workers were careless and didn't adjust the parameters accurately. Alternatively, there might be wear in the suspension components, such as loose tie rods or damaged shock absorbers, which can cause misalignment. Tires shouldn't be overlooked either—if the tire pressure is uneven, with one side higher than the other, the steering wheel will naturally tilt toward the side with lower pressure. Another common mistake is not locking the steering wheel in the exact center position during alignment. Once, I felt my car wobbling on the highway, and it turned out to be uneven tire tread wear. If you encounter this issue, I recommend first checking the tire pressure yourself with a gauge. If that doesn't solve the problem, take it to a professional shop to recheck the suspension system—don't skimp on small expenses at the risk of safety.
