How do i fix a crooked steering wheel on a 94 Toyota Corolla?

Question

I dont know much about cars but im thinking it's a toe problem.

Answer 1

Well, it could be an alignment problem but it also could be that the position of the steering wheel has been changed without affecting the alignment settings.
Start by turning the steering wheel all the way to the left. Then, turn the steering all the way to the right and count the turns. Bring the steering back half way (if you had 3 1/4 turns, for example, then bring it back 1 1/2 and then the closest approximation to 1/8 of a turn.
If the steering wheel is straight at that point, then the front wheel position has to be corrected. Assuming that toe-in is correct, then the best way to do it is by turning the tie rods one turn in each direction until the wheels point straight (you turn each tie rod towards the same direction)
If the steering wheel is not straight and (assuming again that the toe-in is correct), then the steering wheel needs to be pulled off and reinstalled straight.
You can measure toe-in using a string if you are very careful. Take the string (one that doesn't easily stretch) and measure from back of each wheel at some point in the thread pattern. Move the card so that the wheels turn one half of a revolution, then measure the front at the same spot. Without knowing the exact specifications of your Corolla, I'd say that anything around 1/8 to 1/4 inch of toe-in is adequate.

Answer 2

Get the front end aligned. The toe-in could be correct but once it's set the steering wheel needs to be centered. That's done by adjusting each side an equal amount in the same direction. That way the toe-in stays the same and the wheel is centered.

If it "suddenly" went out of whack, you probably have front suspension damage. It might be repairable with an alignment but parts replacement is very likely needed.

Answer 3

remarkable question a lot of excellent info and counsel. Differing manufacturers front to rear won't reason vibration start up via having the wheels balanced and the tires checked for any seen tread mis-shapen situations, if that would not suited the subject, spin up one area at a time with the motor vehicle on the hoist, i've got faith you have gotten gotten an improperly machined rotor that should reason the vibration if that's the case the mechanic won't have any subject determining which one that is utilizing this attempt. on an identical time as the motor vehicle is up additionally verify for worn ball joints and tie rod ends which will boost vibrations and are protection hazards all via themselves. If neither of those assessments undergo fruit, the subsequent issues to verify are the force shaft CV joints, they could be checked with the load of the motor vehicle on the wheels, and the transmission in impartial, to determine they're of their time-honored alignment, which would be the place the placed on and tear is. If the vibration is extraordinarily torque gentle (adjustments with the throttle putting) head directly for the CV joints. as quickly as the vibration has been eradicated and the different loose factors replaced have a front end alignment carried out to get each thing decrease back in suited place and be certain suited dealing with and good tire placed on.

Answer 4

If its never been removed you do need an alignment otherwise you would have to take the airbag off and refit the wheel

Answer 5

if your steering wheel isnt straight, then more then likely, you may have hit a curb or something...you will need to have a front end alignment...normally cost 40 bucks or less...usally from a stretched tire rod...good luck !!

Answer 6

if you dont know much about cars go pay to have it aligned.

Answer 7

I think you are right, get the aligned.