Inspect before driving normally
Look for a tyre bulge, cut, pressure loss, cracked wheel or visible damage. If the tyre is losing pressure or the steering feels unsafe, do not continue driving just to reach a workshop.
Pay attention to new symptoms
An off-centre steering wheel, pulling, vibration, knocking or uneven tyre wear can follow an impact. Tyre pressure and suspension condition can also affect these symptoms, so a measured inspection matters.
Do not assume alignment is the only issue
Alignment can be checked and adjusted where the vehicle and components allow it, but a bent wheel, damaged tyre or worn steering/suspension part must be identified and explained first.
Keep the details
Note when and where the impact happened, whether the vehicle was loaded, and which corner was affected. This helps the workshop focus the initial check.
Further reading
When in doubt, arrange an inspection
These notes are general vehicle-care guidance. If a fault affects safe driving, a tyre is visibly damaged, braking feels abnormal or the vehicle is behaving unexpectedly, do not rely on this guide alone—contact a workshop or seek appropriate assistance.