A crooked steering wheel after alignment on your 2023 Ram 1500 indicates the alignment was completed without properly centering the wheel. While the truck may drive straight, the off-center wheel is both annoying and indicative of an incomplete alignment procedure.
Why Alignment Leaves Wheel Crooked
Proper alignment involves setting toe by adjusting tie rod length. If the technician adjusts one tie rod more than the other to achieve correct total toe, the wheel ends up off center. Correct procedure centers the wheel first, then adjusts both tie rods equally.
Steering Angle Sensor Considerations
Modern vehicles with stability control use a steering angle sensor that must know the true center position. After alignment that changes wheel position, this sensor may need recalibration. An off-center wheel with uncalibrated sensor can affect stability control and lane-keeping functions.
Verifying the Problem
Drive on a flat, straight road with light grip on the wheel. If the truck tracks straight but the wheel is crooked, the total toe is likely correct but distributed unevenly. If the truck pulls and the wheel is crooked, both centering and toe need attention.
Return to Alignment Shop
This is a warranty issue for the alignment—the job isn't complete with a crooked wheel. Return to the shop and request proper centering. A quality shop will recenter the wheel and readjust toe correctly at no charge.
Code B1650 and Sensor Calibration
Code B1650 relates to steering wheel position sensor or body control issues. After alignment affects wheel position, sensor calibration may be needed. Some vehicles self-calibrate after driving in a straight line, while others require tool-based calibration.