Having a misaligned steering wheel may be a frustrating and painful experience while driving. It may happen even when your car’s alignment is totally correct. In this post, we will explain several useful techniques to handle this problem and get your steering wheel straightened up. By following these easy measures, you may enhance your driving experience and ensure a smoother ride.
Understanding the Causes of a Crooked Steering Wheel
A crooked steering wheel might be caused by mismatched tie rods or suspension components. These are key pieces of your car’s steering system that may become misaligned over time due to wear and tear or striking potholes and curbs. Additionally, a steering column or steering wheel alignment difficulties might potentially result in a crooked steering wheel. These difficulties might emerge from poor installation, an accident, or simply ordinary wear and tear. Identifying the underlying cause of the misalignment is key for efficiently fixing the problem and bringing your steering wheel back to its normal position.
Assessing the Severity of the Problem
To remedy a crooked steering wheel, it’s necessary to analyse the degree of the misalignment. Determine whether the steering wheel is slightly off-centre or considerably misaligned. If it’s just slightly off-centre, it may be a little correction. However, if the misalignment is considerable, it might suggest a more serious underlying condition. Additionally, check for any odd tyre wears patterns or if your car seems to lean to one side when driving. These indicators may suggest alignment difficulties beyond just the steering wheel and may need expert care to maintain appropriate alignment and a balanced driving experience.
Quick Fixes You Can Try
If you have a crooked steering wheel, there are a handful of fast repairs you may attempt before getting expert assistance. These basic changes may help you straighten up your steering wheel:
A. Centering the steering wheel manually:
- 1. Park your automobile on a flat surface.
- 2. Locate the nut on the tie rod, which links the steering wheel to the front wheels.
- 3. Loosen the nut using the proper wrench.
- 4. Gently rotate the tie rod to realign the steering wheel. Be cautious not to make any sudden movements.
- 5. Once the steering wheel is adjusted, screw the nut back tightly to lock the adjustment.
B. Resetting the steering angle sensor:
- 1. Consult your vehicle’s handbook to identify the steering angle sensor.
- 2. Disconnect the battery by detaching the negative terminal for a few minutes.
- 3. Reconnect the battery and start the car.
- 4. Turn the steering wheel completely to the left and then to the right.
- 5. Bring the steering wheel back to the middle and start the vehicle again.
These methods may assist in recalibrating the steering angle sensor, which may correct any misalignment problems causing the crooked steering wheel. Keep in mind that the method may vary based on your car’s make and model, so consulting the vehicle’s handbook is vital.
Read More: Why Do Cars Need Wheel Alignment?
Seeking Professional Assistance
If the fast repairs described earlier do not remedy the problem of a crooked steering wheel, it is advisable to seek wheel alignment expert help. Here’s why:
- When the simple treatments do not cure the problem: If the steering wheel remains misaligned after performing the manual centring or resetting the steering angle sensor, it signals a more sophisticated underlying issue that needs expert care.
- Visiting a trustworthy mechanic or alignment specialist: A competent technician or alignment professional has the skills and required tools to detect and rectify steering wheel misalignments effectively. They can diagnose any underlying mechanical concerns and execute the required repairs or changes to restore appropriate alignment.
- Importance of regular maintenance and alignment checks: Regular maintenance and alignment tests are vital for minimising steering wheel misalignments and guaranteeing the maximum performance of your vehicle. By keeping prescribing maintenance schedules and having your alignment checked frequently, you may spot any possible faults early on and prevent more major problems down the road.
Preventive Measures to Maintain a Straight Steering Wheel
To keep a straight steering wheel and avoid misalignments, it’s vital to take these preventative measures:
- Regular tyre rotation and balancing: Rotate your tyres regularly to promote even wear and increase their lifetime. Additionally, have them adjusted to distribute weight equally, lowering the chance of steering troubles.
- Checking tyre pressure routinely: Maintain correct tyre pressure by checking it regularly. Underinflated or overinflated tyres may compromise alignment and contribute to steering issues.
- Avoiding potholes and rough roads: Be careful when driving and avoid potholes and bumpy roads as much as possible. These dangers may cause misalignments and damage to suspension components.
- Maintaining correct suspension components: Keep your suspension components in excellent condition by following the specified maintenance plan. Replace worn-out components quickly to guarantee smooth operation and eliminate steering wheel misalignments.
Read More: Great Benefits of Wheel Alignment
Conclusion
Experiencing a misaligned steering wheel may be excruciating, but it doesn’t always signify there is a severe problem with your car’s alignment. By following the techniques indicated in this article, you may attempt to resolve the situation yourself or seek professional advice if required.
Remember to prioritise regular maintenance and alignment inspections to avoid future steering wheel misalignments. Keeping your car in excellent condition can not only enhance your driving pleasure but also secure your safety on the road.