7 Signs Your Wheel Alignment Is Off

Alignment usually drifts gradually rather than all at once, so it is important to recognise the signs early.

1. The steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight. This is the clearest sign.
2. The car pulls to one side. If the car changes lane when you release the wheel on a straight road, the alignment should be checked.
3. The inner or outer edges of the tyres wear quickly. Camber or toe may be out of specification.
4. Tyre noise in corners. Noise at normal speeds may indicate incorrect angles.
5. Heavy steering or poor self-centring. Caster may be out of specification.
6. Higher fuel consumption. Incorrect angles increase rolling resistance.
7. A pothole or kerb impact. A check is recommended even if there are no symptoms.

What to do

If you notice any of these signs, have a front-end inspection followed by a 3D wheel alignment. An alignment set while a part has play will drift again quickly.