What's the Cost for a Wheel Alignment?
Benefits of Regular Car Alignments
Driving a vehicle inevitably leads to wear and tear on your tires. However, regularly aligning your car can help reduce this wear and tear, as well as keep your car running smoothly and safely. While car alignments may be costly, ranging from $108 to $127 on average in the U.S., it is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity.
What is Car Alignment?
A car alignment involves adjusting the caster, camber, and toe of your vehicle to meet specific specifications. These adjustments affect steering effort, tire wear, and the direction your tires are pointing. Mechanics will also inspect your suspension and test drive your car to ensure everything is working properly after the alignment.
Do You Need a Car Alignment?
You may need a car alignment if you hit a pothole or experience a pulling steering wheel. Recommendations for alignment frequency vary, but many experts suggest getting one every 6,000 miles or as needed. Signs that you need an alignment include steering issues, road noise, and uneven tire wear.
Choosing the Best Place for a Car Alignment
Any reputable mechanic should be able to offer a car alignment service. Make sure your mechanic is ASE certified for quality service. If you're told you need additional suspension work, consider getting a second opinion. While insurance likely won't cover routine alignments, you may be able to get assistance for alignment due to road damage from your city or county government.
