I'm not convinced yet the alignment was the total solution. We know it was out of alignment by the off-center steering wheel. The fact that changed orientation from the crash damage is proof something bent to absorb the impact. Often something can be readjusted to bring a wheel back into specs, but the bent part is still there. Those alignment numbers on the computer screen only apply to a vehicle that is standing still. When you're driving, the steering and suspension parts go through arcs or other motions in a carefully-designed geometric relationship. When that changes, even though the alignment numbers look good, you can still have poor handling and / or miserable tire wear.
My recommendation is, for a first step, to return to the same shop and explain the concern. All alignments should include a final test drive where problems should have been noticed, but the specialists sees a lot of different car models and is often not very familiar with one. Offer to take him along on another test drive to point out the problem. I was the alignment specialist for ten years at a very nice family-owned Chrysler dealership. They were very good about letting me drop everything to address problems like this. This should start with another inspection, particularly on the rear, and include comparing parts on both sides to identify if something is bent. A clue will be found in any adjustment that had to be moved a lot. Doing so during the alignment usually hides, or overcomes the part that bent. At the very least, a mechanic deserves the chance to correct any mistakes. You can expect to pay for any additional parts that can be identified as being needed, but the second alignment should be at no cost to you.
If no solution can be found, visit a second tire and alignment shop. This is one of the rare times I do recommend you give them the full story so they concentrate on the area that was damaged. Normally I suggest only sharing the symptoms and recent history, but not the previous repair estimates so as to not inadvertently limit or blind the second inspector into overlooking some areas.
I always made two printouts of the alignment, one to keep and one to put on the right front seat. I highlighted the angles that I adjusted. The computers allow for printing a number of different screens. Mine showed the "Before" readings on top that showed what the car came in with, and the "After" or "Current" readings on the bottom to show how it left when I was done. The "Before" numbers might provide a clue as to which part(s) might be bent.
Many shops don't provide those printouts because most people wouldn't understand them anyway, and some people get overly excited when they see a relatively insignificant number that isn't exactly perfect. If you didn't get a printout, don't fret, but if you think of it, ask if you can get one with the next alignment.
Monday, March 27th, 2023 AT 2:39 PM