When most drivers think of wheel alignment issues, the first thing that comes to mind is a car that pulls to the right. While that’s certainly a red flag, it’s far from the only clue that your wheels may be out of alignment. Misalignment can sneak up in subtle ways, quietly affecting your handling, tire life, and fuel efficiency. Let’s bust some common myths and set the record straight on what alignment issues really look—and feel—like.
Myth 1: If It’s Not Pulling, It’s Fine
A car doesn’t have to veer dramatically to one side to have alignment problems. In fact, many alignment issues show up as uneven tire wear, vague or loose steering, or a crooked steering wheel when you’re driving straight. You might not notice any pull at all—but that doesn’t mean everything’s aligned. Even minor misalignments can reduce fuel efficiency and accelerate tire wear.
Myth 2: Alignment Is Only for After Accidents or Big Repairs
Hitting potholes, curbs, or even driving regularly on rough roads can gradually throw off your alignment. You don’t need to be in a collision to end up with wheels that are slightly off. Seasonal driving conditions, worn suspension components, or replacing tires without an alignment check can all cause gradual changes that add up over time.
Myth 3: It’s Just About Front Wheels
Modern vehicles, especially those with independent suspension or all-wheel drive, require four-wheel alignment for optimal performance. Rear wheels can go out of alignment too, leading to issues like poor handling, uneven tire wear, and even tracking problems where the car doesn’t drive in a straight line, even though the steering wheel looks centered.
Myth 4: You Only Need an Alignment When You Get New Tires
While it’s smart to get an alignment with new tires, waiting until that point can be too late. If you’ve already experienced uneven tire wear, you may be replacing rubber more often than you should. Regular alignment checks—ideally once a year or any time you notice something “off” with your steering—can extend tire life and improve overall driving feel.
Final Thoughts
“Pulling to the right” might be the most noticeable symptom, but it’s far from the only one. Staying ahead of alignment issues keeps your vehicle handling properly, saves money on tires, and improves driving safety. Don’t wait for dramatic signs—know the real ones, and get checked when in doubt.