What might a mechanic check to determine if a vehicle's tires are out of alignment?

Uneven tire tread wear is a critical indicator of whether a vehicle's tires are out of alignment. When a vehicle's wheels are not aligned properly, they can create uneven pressure on the tires as they make contact with the road. This can lead to specific patterns of wear, such as wearing more on the inner or outer edges of the tire compared to the center. By examining the tread depth and wear patterns on each tire, a mechanic can assess whether misalignment is occurring and recommend necessary adjustments to restore proper alignment and improve safety and tire longevity.

In contrast, while fuel economy readings can be affected by alignment issues, they do not directly indicate alignment problems. Checking engine oil levels and assessing the car's electrical system are also unrelated to tire alignment and focus on entirely different mechanical aspects of the vehicle.