Here's what you should do:
1. Safety First: Don't drive the vehicle if the steering wheel is significantly off-center. This indicates a potential safety hazard.
2. Check Tire Pressure: Uneven tire pressure can contribute to pulling to one side. Ensure all tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure (found on a sticker usually located on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual).
3. Professional Alignment: The most likely cause of an off-center steering wheel is a misalignment. This needs to be professionally addressed by a mechanic or tire shop. They'll use specialized equipment to adjust the toe, camber, and caster angles of your front wheels to bring them back into specification. This is the correct way to fix the problem.
4. Other Potential Issues (Less Likely): While less probable, an off-center steering wheel *could* be caused by:
* Damaged steering components: This could include worn tie rod ends, ball joints, or other steering linkage parts. A mechanic will need to inspect these components.
* Bent steering column: This is less common but possible from a significant impact.
* Brake issues: A dragging brake caliper on one side can cause pulling.
In short: Don't try to "adjust" the steering wheel itself. Take your 1997 Ford Explorer to a qualified mechanic or tire shop for a proper alignment check and any necessary repairs to the steering and/or suspension system. Ignoring the problem can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel economy, and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
