Use a digital tire pressure gauge or a traditional stick-type gauge for this. You can usually use a stick-type gauge for free at your local gas station. Check the pressure when your tires are cold. You won’t get an accurate reading if you’ve been driving on the tires for a while. Check the inflation and adjust it (if needed) once a month. [3] X Research source A warning light will usually light up on your car’s dash if there’s an issue, though.
Cars tend to veer slightly to one side or the other when alignment is off. [5] X Trustworthy Source Federal Trade Commission Website with up-to-date information for consumers from the Federal Trade Commisson Go to source If your tread doesn’t look the same on all tires (for example, the front tires look more worn down than the back ones), your wheels are probably out of alignment. Schedule more frequent checkups if you drive in an area with lots of potholes and rough terrain.
When your tire tread wears down significantly, try to replace all 4 tires at the same time so they’ll be perfectly balanced. If that’s not in your budget, though, just make sure the new tire matches the size and shape of your current tires to prevent any problems.
See the owner’s manual to determine what kind of power steering fluid your car needs. [10] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source If the fluid level is low every time you check it, take your car in for service. You may have a leak.
Check your car’s manual to see what kind of power steering fluid it needs. Bring drained fluids to an auto parts store, recycling facility, or transfer station to be disposed of properly. Never pour fluids down the sink or into the trash. [13] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source If you don’t have experience changing fluids, it’s best to take your car to be professionally serviced.
Replace your serpentine belt every 60,000–90,000 miles (97,000–145,000 km) as a preventative measure. [15] X Research source Some vehicles only have a V-belt. Others may have a serpentine belt and a V-belt. If you’re unsure about anything, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic. [16] X Research source
Take your car in for service immediately if you suspect a slipped belt.
If you notice these symptoms, get a professional to fix your steering issue ASAP. [20] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
