Is Your Steering Wheel Off-Center? 5 Common Causes and How to Fix Them
It’s frustrating. You’re driving along just fine when you realize your steering wheel is off-center. At first, you might blame the road. But as you drive, it becomes clear that it’s your vehicle and not the highway department. While dealing with a steering wheel that’s just a bit off can be trying, the underlying issues can be a lot worse. Those can include uneven tire wear, handling issues, as well reduced fuel efficiency and safety. Here are the five relatively common causes of an off-center steering wheel and what you can do to realign your steering wheel.
Common Causes of Off-Center Steering Wheel
Very few vehicles have a perfectly centered steering wheel. So, if yours is a bit askew, you’re not alone. It’s when that tilt is more than 5 degrees off center that you need to start considering a check of your alignment, suspension, or steering components.
How do you know when it reaches that point? Think of your steering wheel as a clock. If it’s perfectly centered, the top would be at 12. If the top of the steering wheel is beyond the 11 or the 1 when you’re going straight, visit your local Les Schwab where we will check for these five common causes.
Bad Wheel Alignment
Normal settling of the suspension, including fatigue of springs and bushings (rubber cushions that dampen the amount of movement and noise), will gradually change over time. This will affect your alignment. Hitting a pothole, going over big bumps, rubbing up against a curb, or rolling over debris can also push wheels out of alignment. All of this can cause your steering wheel to get off-center.
Uneven Tire Wear
While often caused by a misalignment, uneven tire wear can add to an off-center steering wheel as the contact patch (where the rubber literally meets the road) adjusts.
Suspension Problems
Worn bushings or shocks can affect a vehicle’s alignment, which can directly affect the steering wheel.
Damaged Steering Components
The tie rods, ball joints, and other parts of your steering components will wear out over time. This can cause the steering wheel to be off-center.
Underinflated Tires
When a tire isn’t properly inflated, it can damage steering components. It can also impact your alignment over time. Keep your tires properly inflated at Les Schwab.
Fixing an Off-Center Steering Wheel
One of the most tried-and-true methods of centering a steering wheel is with a full alignment. Book an appointment at Les Schwab to have the camber, caster, and toe professionally checked on your vehicle. We have the tools and knowhow to get the job done right the first time.
Effects of an Off-Center Steering Wheel
A steering wheel that is a bit off-center is annoying, but it can also be a sign that you need to get your alignment, steering components, or suspension system checked. Ignoring those issues can add up to worse problems over time, including:
- Uneven Tire Wear. When all four tires don’t wear down evenly, it can shorten the lifespan of your tires, costing you more money.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency or Range. A vehicle that is out of alignment will require more energy to roll down the road, which can burn up more fuel or consume more battery power.
- Compromised Handling and Stability. When your steering wheel is off center, and your alignment or another part of your vehicle needs adjustment, it can reduce handling and performance, which can reduce overall safety.
Preventing Steering Wheel Misalignment
Regular alignments are the key to a centered steering wheel. Les Schwab recommends you get yours checked at least once a year to get the most out of your tires and reduce the strain on your car or truck’s steering and suspension parts. Of course, avoiding potholes and curbs, careful and sensible driving, and proper maintenance can also help.
To keep your steering wheel centered and your car in alignment, trust the professionals at Les Schwab. We’ll examine your vehicle, make recommendations, and get you back on the road.