What is a key indicator of poor alignment in a vehicle?

A key indicator of poor alignment in a vehicle is uneven tire wear. When a vehicle's wheels are not aligned properly, it causes the tires to make contact with the road at the wrong angles. This misalignment leads to uneven distribution of weight across the tires, which can result in specific areas wearing down more quickly than others. Over time, this will manifest as visible wear patterns on the tires, such as scalloping or cupping, indicating that the alignment needs to be corrected.

While decreased fuel efficiency, unusual engine noises, and excessive vibration in the steering wheel can also relate to various vehicle issues, they aren't specific indicators of poor alignment. For instance, decreased fuel efficiency may stem from multiple factors, including tire pressure and engine performance. Unusual engine noises are typically associated with mechanical problems. Excessive vibration in the steering wheel can suggest issues with the wheels, tires, or suspension, but again, these are not exclusive to alignment problems.