Final answer:
Wheel alignment can be affected by suspension wear, impact damage, and worn out joints or bearings, all of which require professional mechanical attention to diagnose and correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Proper wheel alignment is crucial for the safe handling of a vehicle. Wheel alignment issues can be caused by a variety of vehicle problems. Here are three common issues that can affect wheel alignment:
- Suspension Wear: Over time, the suspension components such as shocks, struts, and springs can wear out. Worn out components may lead to the vehicle sitting unevenly, which, in turn, can cause misalignment.
- Impact Damage: Hitting curbs, potholes, or other obstacles can result in immediate misalignment. The sudden impact can bend or damage parts of the steering and suspension system.
- Worn Out Joints or Bearings: Ball joints, tie rods, and wheel bearings are all parts of the steering and suspension systems. If these joints or bearings wear out, they can lead to alignment issues by allowing excessive movement or altering the wheel's position.
Each of these problems necessitates a visit to a mechanic who can diagnose and correct the alignment, often by adjusting various vehicle components to ensure that the wheels are properly aligned according to the manufacturer's specifications. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and rectify these issues before they lead to significant alignment problems.