Your car may need an alignment if it pulls to one side, the steering wheel is crooked when you drive straight, or the tires wear unevenly. New Jersey Consumer Affairs lists these as signs, along with a steering wheel that does not return easily after a turn. Hitting a pothole or curb is a good reason for a check. O’Hara and Sons Automotive offers tires and alignment. Call (267) 995-0203, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM.
What are the signs?
- Uneven tire tread wear
- The car pulls or drifts to one side
- The steering wheel is off-center when driving straight
- The wheel does not return easily after a turn
- A new vibration or odd handling after hitting a pothole or curb
Does a pull always mean alignment?
No. Tire condition, pressure differences and mechanical issues can also cause pulling. An inspection separates alignment from other causes.
What is the difference between alignment and balance?
Alignment is the angles of the wheels. Balance is how weight is spread around a spinning wheel and tire. Either can matter, but they are not the same service. Vibration at certain speeds can have other causes too.
What should I do after a pothole?
AAA advises checking tire pressure, looking for cuts, bulges or a flat, and watching for new noises, vibration, pulling or an off-center wheel. If you notice any of these, have the alignment and suspension inspected. See brakes and suspension.
What should I tell the shop?
- Your year, make and model, plus any wheel or suspension changes
- When you noticed the change and any impact
- Whether it happens at specific speeds or when braking
- The tire pressure you use
Sources and notes
- NJ Division of Consumer Affairs, Keep Your Wheels Aligned: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/News/Consumer%20Briefs/keep-your-wheels-aligned.pdf
- AAA, How To Avoid Pothole Damage: https://www.aaa.com/autorepair/articles/how-to-avoid-pothole-damage
- General information. Last checked: October 24, 2026.
Talk to the shop
O’Hara and Sons Automotive, (267) 995-0203, Monday–Friday, 8 AM–6 PM. Tires & alignment · Contact
A LITTLE CLARITY
Good questions.Straight answers.
Still wondering about something? Call (267) 995-0203, Mon–Fri, 8 AM–6 PM.
How often should I get an alignment?
There is no single answer. Check after a hard impact or if you notice the signs above. Your owner’s manual or tire maker may give guidance.
Will an alignment fix a vibration?
Not always. Balance, tires and suspension can all cause it.
Can bad alignment wear out tires?
Yes, uneven wear is one of the classic signs.
Where do I find the right tire pressure?
It is usually on the driver’s door placard. The number on the tire sidewall is not your routine inflation target.
Does O’Hara and Sons Automotive do alignments?
See tires and alignment. Call (267) 995-0203 to talk it through.
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