Technical 500 TA steering/wheel alignment issue?

[redfive]

Morning all!

Encountering an odd issue with my '12 plate 500 twinair. Noticed that the car was pulling right when I had the steering wheel dead straight. I assumed it was a tracking issue and had this checked and apparently corrected at a neaby tyre specialist. Within a few days I noticed the same issue, as if the wheels had wandered again. So, assuming the alignment hadn't been done properly I took it back to the type place and they re-did the tracking for me. However, within a few days it's happened again!

This is accompanied by another symptom. However the steering wheel is initially positioned, when I pull away the steering whell will turn about 10-15 degrees to the left.

Not being very technically minded I'm worried that if I simply take it to the dealer to be looked at they'll just assume it's a tracking issue, not something else, and charge me. I don't know if it's been caused by impact with a pothole or speed bump, or if its a fault that may even be covered under warranty, and will keep happening if whoever i take it to just does the tracking again.

Any suggestions on what it might be or how to describe this to the dealer when I contact them would be appreciated.

 

[PsFiat]

Morning all!

Encountering an odd issue with my '12 plate 500 twinair. Noticed that the car was pulling right when I had the steering wheel dead straight. I assumed it was a tracking issue and had this checked and apparently corrected at a neaby tyre specialist. Within a few days I noticed the same issue, as if the wheels had wandered again. So, assuming the alignment hadn't been done properly I took it back to the type place and they re-did the tracking for me. However, within a few days it's happened again!

This is accompanied by another symptom. However the steering wheel is initially positioned, when I pull away the steering whell will turn about 10-15 degrees to the left.

Not being very technically minded I'm worried that if I simply take it to the dealer to be looked at they'll just assume it's a tracking issue, not something else, and charge me. I don't know if it's been caused by impact with a pothole or speed bump, or if its a fault that may even be covered under warranty, and will keep happening if whoever i take it to just does the tracking again.

Any suggestions on what it might be or how to describe this to the dealer when I contact them would be appreciated.

How are your tyre pressures ? What's the condition of your tyres ? Shockers may also be a factor ...

 

[redfive]

How are your tyre pressures ? What's the condition of your tyres ? Shockers may also be a factor ...

Both front tyres replaced earlier this month. Tyre pressures checked and correct. Car was serviced in December too.

 

[UFI]

I'd start by checking the top strut mounts.

 

[redfive]

I'd start by checking the top strut mounts.

Cheers, will check them out.

 

[306maxi]

I'd be more liable to look at the tyres, did you spend good money or just go for the cheapest your tyre place could find and then pay good money for them?

 

[Mercky]

If you get an alignment done you need to ensure it's a proper laser alignment by a reputable company and have the camber and castor angles fully checked - you should get a print out showing the results. Suspension components can be culprits too. Tyres are definitely worth checking as Maxi sais, they can end up with odd wear patterns due to duff alignment / suspension which in turn compounds the problem. I've been there with a previous car, never got it 100% but it was much improved after a good alignment and new tyres!!