Sounds like the discussion was all for not since you need front end/ steering components replaced. An alignment will be in order once the new parts are installed.
As was stated in an earlier post, the shaft and original wheel have an indexing groove. I know, because my wheel is off right now. As for the aftermarket wheel?...Don't know, it's been years since I messed with one.
The reason we are explaining the correct way to center the wheel is that 'something' caused it to leave center...that usually being worn components (what you found) or the front end being out of alignment (a past fender bender, hitting a pot hole, a curb, parking block,...even a low tire). Simply pulling the wheel off the shaft and re-indexing it does not fix the 'real problem'. And by re-indexing the wheel on the shaft, you would also have more total rotation (albeit a few inches) in one direction than the other. Wheel re-indexing...Easy fix, or masking another problem? It's not my car. (shoulder shrug)
Cheers,