Had an alignment after brake, shock/spring install, and the steering wheel is not truly centered (not "level" when going straight - slightly to the left). Last time I had an alignment 2-3 yrs ago I had the same problem - took 4-5 trips before it was centered. Is this a common problem, or I am just going to the wrong places? I just installed lower ball joints, and bought new tires today.

Thanks,
Patrick

 

Your wheels are more than likely aligned to specs, but the technician was lazy and didn't take the time to center the wheel.

It just takes more time to put some in one side and take a little out of the other side to center the wheel.

Find an independant shop that only does frame and alignment work. They offer 2 advantages over places like Good Year or PEP BOYS. The first one is your problem. The other is, these cheap places will set up to within spec but that may not be the optimum for your car. The independant will take the car out for a test drive and correct for anything that feels strange, not just go to spec and leave it there.

Always help the little guy.

 

Most likely the crooked wheel is due to what badass383 said. Although after an alignment i use to swear the car was pulling, when it actually was the wide tires on uneven pavement.