Your car’s wheel alignment might not be something you think about every day. However, expert Chicago car accident lawyers point out that it plays a huge role in keeping your drives safe, smooth, and fuel-efficient. When your wheels are properly aligned, your car handles better, your tires wear evenly, and you’re less likely to deal with unexpected mechanical problems. On the flip side, poor alignment can cause costly damage, make your car harder to control, and even increase the risk of accidents. Luckily, you don’t need to be a mechanic to spot alignment issues early. Here’s how you can check your car’s wheel alignment before things go sideways—literally.
What Exactly Is Wheel Alignment?
Before you start checking for problems, it helps to understand what wheel alignment actually is. Wheel alignment refers to how your car’s wheels are positioned relative to each other and to the road. Proper alignment means your tires are set at the correct angles, allowing them to roll smoothly and evenly. These angles include camber (tilt in or out), toe (angle inward or outward when viewed from above), and caster (tilt of the steering axis). If any of these angles are off, it can cause a chain reaction of problems, from uneven tire wear to steering issues.
The Tell-Tale Signs of Misalignment
Checking your car’s alignment doesn’t always require fancy tools or a trip to the shop. Sometimes your vehicle will give you clear signals that something is off. Watch out for these common warning signs:
- Your steering wheel isn’t centered. When you’re driving straight, your steering wheel should be level and centered. If it tilts to one side, your alignment could be off.
- The car pulls to one side. If you have to constantly correct your steering because the car drifts left or right, that’s a red flag.
- Uneven tire wear. Take a close look at your tires. If one side is more worn than the other, misalignment might be to blame.
- Steering feels loose or unresponsive. If your steering seems unusually sloppy or overly sensitive, that could signal alignment problems.
- You hear unusual noises while driving. Squealing tires or unusual sounds when turning may also indicate alignment issues.
How to Do a Simple At-Home Alignment Check
While a professional alignment uses lasers and computers, you can still do a basic check at home to spot potential problems early.
- Park on a level surface. Ensure your car is parked on a flat, even surface. This ensures you’re getting a true reading of your wheels’ position.
- Check your steering wheel. Sit in the driver’s seat and look at the steering wheel when the car is turned on but stationary. Is it perfectly straight? If not, alignment may be the issue.
- Inspect your tires. Look for uneven tread wear. Run your hand over the tire surface to feel for rough patches or bald spots, especially on the inner or outer edges.
- Perform the roll test. Drive slowly on a straight, flat road. Lightly let go of the steering wheel (only if it’s safe to do so). If the car drifts noticeably to one side without your input, alignment is likely off.
- Measure the tire angles (optional). If you want to get technical, you can use a tape measure to check the distance between the front and rear of your tires. This can give you a rough idea of the toe angle, although it won’t replace a professional alignment.
When to See a Professional
If your at-home checks suggest something is wrong, it’s time to visit an auto repair shop. A trained technician can use an alignment machine to precisely adjust the camber, caster, and toe settings on your car. It’s a relatively quick service, but it can prevent major problems down the road.
Don’t Let Poor Alignment Lead to Bigger Trouble
Maintaining proper wheel alignment is about more than just protecting your tires—it’s about keeping you and your passengers safe. Ignoring alignment problems can lead to hazardous situations, such as sudden steering issues or tire blowouts. If you’ve been in a road mishap where poor vehicle maintenance played a role, don’t hesitate to consult professional Chicago car accident lawyers. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the next steps.
