Can 4S shops do free four-wheel alignment?
3 Answers
4S shops do not offer free four-wheel alignment. Generally speaking, the charges for repair and maintenance services at 4S shops are higher than those outside, and the same goes for four-wheel alignment. Not only is four-wheel alignment not free at 4S shops, but the price is also higher than at some repair shops outside. The following are situations where four-wheel alignment is needed: 1. Tire pressure and tire tread wear: Uneven tire wear indicates a problem with the tires, steering system, or suspension, among other things. There are many reasons for irregular tire wear and excessive wear. The most common reasons include improper inflation pressure, failure to rotate tires regularly, improper driving habits, or incorrect original four-wheel alignment. 2. Wheel wobble: Wobble is a condition where the tire rotates unstably due to various reasons. The wobble of the wheel and tire refers to irregular up-and-down or left-and-right movements. Left-and-right movement refers to the lateral wobble of the wheel or tire, while up-and-down movement refers to the radial wobble of the wheel or tire. Vibration issues related to wobble can only be resolved by identifying the source of the wobble. 3. Wheel deviation: Deviation refers to the situation where the vehicle drifts from its intended direction while driving straight on a road, with the steering wheel not subjected to any external force.
In my work experience, I've found that 4S shops usually don't provide free wheel alignment services because it involves professional equipment and labor costs. Each operation takes about half an hour to an hour, with prices generally ranging from 200 to 500 yuan, varying by brand and region. New cars under warranty may receive free inspections, but once angle adjustments or part replacements are needed, it often becomes a paid service. I think it's best for car owners to clarify the policy when purchasing a vehicle or inquire about promotions during regular maintenance. For example, some 4S shops offer free or discounted items during holidays to attract repeat customers. Wheel alignment is crucial for driving safety. If tires show uneven wear or the steering wheel vibrates and isn't addressed promptly, it could lead to instability at high speeds or even increase the risk of a tire blowout. Therefore, I recommend addressing these issues as soon as possible at a professional shop.
Hey, as someone who frequently shares car insights on social media, I've noticed that free four-wheel alignment services at 4S shops are relatively rare, and most of the time it's a paid service. The reason is that they need to invest in equipment maintenance and technician training, which comes with significant costs, averaging around 300 yuan. However, free services are sometimes offered during the new car's first maintenance or promotional periods. For example, when I first bought my car, the 4S shop did a free check for me. I suggest you directly contact your local 4S shop to inquire about the latest promotions—you might save some money during anniversary celebrations. Remember, four-wheel alignment can prevent uneven tire wear, extend tire life, and make driving more stable, especially on highways. Don't wait—address any issues promptly to avoid bigger expenses later.
