How Do You Know if You Need Car Wheel Alignment
Posted on June 12, 2025
The wheel alignment of your car can be altered by a number of factors, not just major accidents. Everyday driving incidents like hitting a pothole, a curb, or even rough roads can cause misalignment over time. At first, poor wheel alignment may not be a serious concern for most drivers. Still, as you continue to drive with misaligned wheels, it can cause damage to the car, including uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and long-term damage to the vehicle's steering and suspension systems. Recognizing the signs that you need to see a car mechanic in Vaughan for wheel alignment is key to minimizing damage. At Modern Automotive, a local mechanic and auto body shop in Vaughan, our certified and experienced mechanics will inspect your alignment and steering if you notice the following signs so you can be confident when you hit the road that your car is functioning as it should.
Here are some of the most common signs that your vehicle may need wheel alignment services in Vaughan.
Your Steering Wheel Is Crooked
If you're driving on a flat, straight road and your steering wheel isn't centred or level, that's a common indication that your alignment is off. A crooked steering wheel means your wheels aren't pointing in the right direction, even if your car still moves straight.
This misalignment can gradually lead to discomfort while driving and uneven wear on your tires. Our skilled car mechanics in Vaughan at Modern Automotive can realign your wheels and reset the steering wheel to its correct position.
The Car Pulls to One Side
While some road slopes can cause a slight pull, a strong and consistent pull is usually a red flag for alignment issues. If you find yourself constantly adjusting your steering to keep the car straight, it's time to visit an auto body shop in Vaughan for a proper inspection and alignment service.
Uneven Tire Wear
If you were to inspect your tires and notice that the wear patterns are uneven, meaning that they are more worn on one edge than the other, you will likely need wheel alignment services. Misaligned wheels put extra pressure on specific areas of your tires, which shortens their lifespan and can make handling and maneuvering much more difficult. Regular tire rotation helps, but if alignment is the root cause, you'll benefit from a car mechanic in Vaughan to correct the issue before installing new tires.
Steering Wheel Vibrations
While vibrations can also stem from unbalanced tires or suspension problems, they're sometimes caused by wheels that are not aligned properly. If your steering wheel shakes or vibrates while driving, especially when you accelerate to higher speeds, it's worth having your alignment checked by a professional.
Squealing Tires
Another sign to watch for is unusual noises, mainly squealing from your tires when turning. This can be caused by misalignment, causing your tires to drag slightly rather than roll freely. At a certified auto body shop in Vaughan, technicians can identify whether the noise is due to misalignment or another mechanical issue that requires attention.
Protect Your Tires and Wheel Alignment with Modern Automotive in Vaughan
Proper wheel alignment is key to safe driving and protecting the longevity of your vehicle. With wheel alignment services at Modern Automotive, you can be confident that all four wheels of your car are moving in unity in the right direction. To learn more about our mechanical and auto body repairs, contact us today.