What Causes the Steering Wheel to Be Misaligned After Driving Over a Pothole?
3 Answers
When a car drives over a pothole at high speed, severe jolts and impacts can cause deformation or damage to the chassis components, leading to misalignment of the steering wheel. If this issue is detected, it should be repaired promptly. Continuing to drive not only compromises safety but also accelerates wear and tear on tires and other chassis components. The most commonly damaged parts include: 1. Deformation of the upper and lower control arms; 2. Misalignment or deformation of the steering linkage; 3. Deformation of the steering knuckle (commonly known as the "sheep horn"). Vehicle damage can be assessed through a four-wheel alignment test or by observing the extent of deformation.
I've been repairing cars for almost twenty years, and it's common to see the steering wheel misaligned after hitting a pothole. Mainly, it's because the tie rod or ball joint gets bent or deformed, causing a deviation in the steering angle. Another factor could be incorrect toe alignment, which can make the steering wheel crooked if the wheel alignment is off. Damage to the suspension system, like shocks or control arms, might also be the culprit, especially if the impact from the pothole was severe. Sometimes, unbalanced tires or deformed rims can add to the problem. If not addressed promptly, it not only makes driving uncomfortable but also accelerates tire wear, reduces handling performance, and increases the risk of losing control at high speeds. I recommend that drivers pay attention to the steering wheel position after hitting a pothole. If anything feels off, get it checked by a professional shop immediately—you might need a four-wheel alignment or part replacement. Don't delay; safety comes first. Spending a little now can prevent bigger problems later.
Last week I encountered this issue - the steering wheel was misaligned after driving over a pothole. Possible causes include a damaged tie rod affecting steering alignment, or suspension system damage like a bent control arm; unbalanced tires could also be the culprit, as severe jolts from potholes may cause this. I found it quite alarming. The mechanic said it's a minor issue but must be addressed promptly, otherwise prolonged driving could cause uneven tire wear and increase safety risks due to unstable handling. Now I always slow down for potholes to minimize such impacts. Everyone should stay alert to road conditions and address problems early - don't make my mistake of trying to save money initially only to face bigger issues later.
