How do you tell when the car needs alignment?

There are several signs that indicate your car may need an alignment. Here are some common indicators:

1. Uneven or rapid tire wear: Check your tires for any signs of excessive wear. Uneven wear patterns, such as more wear on the inner or outer edges, could be a sign that your car is out of alignment.

2. Vehicle pulling to one side: If your car tends to pull to one side or the steering feels off-centre when driving on a straight road, it might be a symptom of misalignment.

3. Steering wheel vibration: If you experience vibrations in the steering wheel while driving, especially at higher speeds, it could indicate an alignment issue.

4. Crooked steering wheel: When the car is travelling straight, the steering wheel should be centred. If it appears crooked or turned to one side while driving straight, it may be a sign of alignment problems.

5. Squealing tires: Improper alignment can wear down the tires unevenly, causing them to squeal when turning.

6. Drifting or wandering: If your car feels like it’s drifting or wandering on the road, rather than maintaining a straight trajectory, it may require an alignment.

7. Recent incident or maintenance: Any event that could potentially affect your car’s suspension or alignment, such as hitting a curb, pothole, or going over a large speed bump, may warrant an alignment check.

It’s important to note that these signs may not necessarily indicate an alignment issue alone, as they could also be caused by other mechanical problems. If you suspect an alignment problem, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic for an accurate diagnosis and alignment service if needed.