this is a noob question because i have never done an alignment before, but how close to perfect does an alignment get your steering wheel? my steering wheel is only off by a few degrees and im wondering if i do an alignment would it get my steering wheel to be dead center again, or does an alignment only get it to be within a few degrees of being center again. im asking because if an alignment doesnt always get it dead center then im not going to get one because my steering wheel is only off by a few degrees.

 

A good reputable alignment shop will center your steering wheel. Though be sure to mention it during car drop off just to make sure. Depending on the place the techs can get lazy and just align the car without centering the steering wheel because it is less work. In my opinion you are paying for a service so they need to center it. I see you are in California so if you happen to be in San Diego take your car to Clarence Brown alignment in Kearny Mesa and they will do a great job, a bit more $ but definitely worth it.