Steering Column Repair: Sterring tilted to the left, wheel alignment, nissan altima

Question
QUESTION: The steering of my Nissan Altima remains titled to the left in the normal and drives straight when kept as such. If I turn it slightly to the right to keep it balanced the car gently bears to the right.
Is an wheel alignment required?
Thanks
Greg

ANSWER: Hi Greg:
The answer is simply 'yes'.  The technical answer is..the 'toe in' adjustment needs correcting.  Make sure they do a complete 4 wheel alignment so the rear wheels track straight behind the front wheels when driving.  I'm sure you've seen some cars that look like they are tracking funny, almost offset when going straight.  That's because the alignment was done to only the two front wheels, ignoring the total alignment and the rear of the car.

Lastly, let them know how important a centered steering wheel is to you.  The alignment can be 'on the numbers' and still leave the wheel crooked.

Good luck
Doug


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: That was brilliant Doug - and one follow-up. I had the bearing changed on the passenger-side front wheel since it was making a wheering sound like another motor, once it crossed 45 mph. Its done and well now, however, I get a soft wobbly sound ("choun-choun-choun...") like that regulated by uneven air from the tires incorrect friction with the road, if you know what I'm saying. Was the wheel to be balanced before being placed back? Is that required now? Thanks Doug.

Answer
Hi Greg:
Balancing the tire will not change anything as far as a noise goes.  The only thing balancing does is prevent a wheel (& tire) from bouncing once it hits the cyclical 60 mph.  That in turn makes the steering wheel (for the front tire) or the seat (for the back tire) vibrate at highway speeds and creates wear spots every 6 inches or so on the tire itself from bouncing and skidding on the pavement while driving.

Regarding your noise...I have tried before to answer noise questions on the web and it is just too difficult. Your clicking is my ticking and your knocking is my thumping, etc. I would suggest going to a couple of shops and have them just drive it with you to get an idea of what you are after. If they want you to leave it for diagnosis, find another shop. The good shops will be glad to 'go for a ride' to help you before getting involved. If after you do that you wish to ask me about their opinion, I would be glad to assist you with that.

Good Luck
Doug