Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How can you tell if your car needs alignment?

My steering has felt a little off lately when I travel at highway speeds. How can you tell if your car needs alignment?

avatar
Matthew Macgugan · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Even a minor alignment issue can cause uneven tire wear and early replacement, so it’s great you noticed there may be an issue.
Here are some telltale signs that its time to have your tires realigned:
  • Steering pulling to the left or right
  • Uneven tire wear
  • Steering wheel is turned when you are driving straight
  • Your tires squeal
If you aren’t sure whether these issues are present, it may be best to visit a tire shop or mechanic to check in on your alignment. There are also several ways to remedy the issue yourself until you have the chance to take your car in, including:
  • Removing junk from the trunk. Too much weight in the back of your vehicle can throw off your tire angle, which affects your alignment.
  • Check your
    tire pressures
    . Keeping tires properly inflated will create more of a buffer between your car body and the road, which can protect from your alignment being affected by a bump or object.
  • Drive conservatively. Slowing down and avoiding sharp movements will take some stress off the suspension and help maintain proper alignment.
If you’re concerned about your car breaking down or want some extra protection, try a roadside assistance membership with
Jerry
. Jerry’s roadside assistance membership protects you with their nationwide network of 55,000+ service providers.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings