Marty et al. — I experienced the same surprising issue.
I agree that some kind of minor mod should be allowed. Without the mod the car “grabs” (tires jam on the wells) in some of the corners and has inconsistent performance.
If you push the car backwards when installing the front screws it may solve the problem but is too inconsistent for a permanent or common solution.
"... get on your bad motor scooter and ride!"
Sammy with Montrose