When is Tire Alignment Necessary?
You may be going about your daily errands, rarely thinking about tire alignment, but then you suddenly hit a curb while attempting your best parallel park and wonder, do I need to get my tires checked? You may need to get them realigned. Let’s begin by explaining what tire alignment is.
What is tire alignment?
Tire alignment, also known as wheel alignment, refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension system to ensure that the wheels are set to the manufacturer's specifications. It involves adjusting the angles of the tires so that they make proper contact with the road, improving handling, and ensuring even tire wear. The key components that are adjusted during an alignment are:
Camber: The inward or outward angle of the tire when viewed from the front of the vehicle. If the top of the tire is tilted inward (negative camber) or outward (positive camber), it can cause uneven wear.
Toe: The angle at which the tires turn inward or outward when viewed from above. Toe-in means the front of the tires are closer together than the rear, and toe-out means the opposite. Incorrect toe alignment can cause the tires to "scrub" against the road.
Caster: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side of the vehicle, if the angle is off it affects steering stability, cornering, and balance.
Proper tire alignment ensures improved fuel efficiency, extended tire life, better vehicle handling, and a smoother, safer ride whereas misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, steering issues, and increased fuel consumption. Regular alignments keep the tires in proper position, maximizing their lifespan and improving overall vehicle performance.
When should you have your tires aligned?
Tire alignment should typically be checked every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year. However, there are several factors that might require more frequent alignment checks, including:
1. Hitting a pothole or curb: even minor impacts can knock your tires out of alignment.
2. Uneven tire wear: if you notice uneven wear on your tires, it's a sign that alignment might be needed.
3. New tires: When you install new tires, it’s a good idea to check the alignment to ensure they wear evenly and last longer.
4. Steering issues: If your car pulls to one side or the steering feels off-center, it’s likely time for an alignment.
5. Suspension work: If you’ve had suspension parts replaced or adjusted, an alignment check is recommended.
6. Regular alignment checks can help prolong the life of your tires and improve your vehicle's handling.
Tire alignment should typically be checked every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year
Can you align tires yourself?
Tire alignment should be performed by a certified professional mechanic or a technician at an auto repair shop, tire shop, or dealership that specializes in alignment services. These professionals have the necessary equipment, such as alignment racks and computerized tools, to accurately measure and adjust the angles of your vehicle’s suspension system to factory specifications.
Reasons to have a professional perform tire alignment include:
1. Specialized Equipment: alignment requires precise measurement tools like laser or computer systems that most individuals don’t have at home.
2. Expertise: Technicians are trained to identify alignment issues, such as improper camber, toe, or caster angles, and know how to make the necessary adjustments safely and correctly.
3. Warranty Considerations: many tire manufacturers require regular alignments as part of their warranty. Having a professional service the alignment helps ensure that this requirement is met.
4. Additional Inspections: During alignment, mechanics can also check for related issues like worn suspension parts or tire damage that could affect the alignment or safety of the vehicle.
Getting an alignment done at a reputable shop ensures that your vehicle performs well, your tires last longer, and your driving experience is smooth and safe.
How much does tire alignment cost?
The cost of a tire alignment can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of vehicle, the region you're in, and the type of alignment needed. On average, here are the typical price ranges:
Front-End Alignment (adjusts the front two wheels):
Cost: $50 to $100
Four-Wheel Alignment (adjusts all four wheels):
Cost: $80 to $150
Luxury or High-Performance Vehicles:
Cost: $150 to $250 or more
Some luxury vehicles or those with specialized suspension systems may require more precise alignment, making it more expensive.
Additional Adjustments:
If your vehicle requires additional adjustments beyond standard alignment (e.g., correcting suspension issues or replacing parts like tie rods), the cost can increase.
Alignment Packages or Lifetime Alignment:
Some shops offer lifetime alignment packages for around $150 to $250. These packages allow you to have alignments performed as needed, often at no additional cost, for the lifetime of your ownership of the vehicle.
It's a good idea to check with local repair shops, tire centers, or dealerships to get an estimate specific to your vehicle and location.
Are tire alignment and wheel balancing the same?
Tire alignment and tire balancing are two different services, although they both contribute to smoother driving and better tire longevity. Here's how they differ:
Tire alignment focuses on adjusting the angles of the tires so they sit properly on the road according to the manufacturer’s specifications. It involves adjusting the vehicle’s suspension system (camber, toe, caster) while tire balancing corrects the weight distribution around each tire and wheel assembly. Tires are placed on a balancing machine, and small weights are added to the wheel to ensure even weight distribution to prevent vibrations, bouncing, and wobbling at higher speeds.
Both services are important however for maintaining optimal performance, tire life, and driving comfort, but they address different aspects of your vehicle's setup.
Is tire alignment included in a routine car service?
Tire alignment is not typically included in a routine car service, like an oil change or general inspection, unless there are signs of misalignment. However, mechanics may visually inspect your tires and suspension for issues that could indicate alignment problems, such as:
Uneven tire wear: If they notice this, they might recommend checking your alignment.
Steering or suspension issues: If they find problems with steering responsiveness or worn suspension parts during a routine service, they may suggest an alignment check.
If your vehicle is due for a tire/wheel alignment at the same time as a car service, it will be worth asking specifically that the mechanic check them. You may be able to time it so that both can be done at the same time. But if the timing doesn’t line up, ensure you make an appointment for tire alignment at least once a year.
Read more on a related topic in this previous blog:
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