Wheel alignment requires specialized equipment and tools, and mechanics will recommend checking the alignment for various reasons.
- Uneven tire wear is an indication that there could be an alignment problem
- Your vehicle is unable to continue in a straight line and tends to drift to one side when you take your hands off the steering wheel.
- You live in an area where the roadways are pothole ridden
- You may have accidentally bumped against a curb while attempting to park.
You can diagnose alignment problems by taking your hands off the steering wheel and seeing if the car continues in a straight line or drifts one way or the other. If the latter is the case, there would likely be a problem with the alignment of your wheels. Drifting could also be cause by worn tires or tires that are inflated unevenly.
Remember, safety is most paramount when it comes to operating a motor vehicle. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, express your concerns to a licensed mechanic.