I just got a front end alignment at my local "Nissan" dealership. When I got the car back the steering wheel was no longer straight up and down. In fact it was crooked to the left side, even though the wheels were straight. Is this a sign of a bad alignment job? Is this why my steering wheel shakes like crazy when I go 60mph and faster? I also put on new rims and tires after I got the alignment. Would this play a large role in the shaking steering wheel problem? I'm not really sure. Thanks.

 

The alignment job is bad and there may also be a problem with your new rim/tires...

If you got the vibration after putting on the new rims then your rims may be off balance...

The 'off center' steering wheel is minor... all they have to do is readjust the tie rods to recenter the steering wheel... they should do this for you at no charge as they should have done it correctly the 1st time...

 

It is likely that bad alignment caused the steering wheel to be off-center. This is a sign of hasty work or an unskilled technician.

It is unlikely that bad alignment is causing the steering wheel shake.

Please rotate your tires, exchanging the fronts and rears.

If the vibration symptom goes away the problem is associated with the tires or wheels.
- tire out of balance
- tire out of round
- tire defect such as tread ply separation
- bent wheel

If the vibration symptom remains unchanged the problem is associated with the vehicle.
- worn ball joints
- worn tie rod ends
- worn control arm bushings

 

I hate to say this but to answer your question, you did get a bad alignment job. Take it back and have them do it right.

 

Rotate your tires and see if vibration stays. Try to isolate your problem, then take your car back to the guys that did your alignment and have them straighten your steering wheel.