Do 4S shops charge for four-wheel alignment?
4 Answers
4S shops do not offer free four-wheel alignment services; additional charges apply. Here is some information about four-wheel alignment: 1. Introduction: Four-wheel alignment involves adjusting the suspension parameters of a vehicle. 2. Consequences of Fault: If the wheels exhibit a tendency to pull to one side, a four-wheel alignment is necessary. Otherwise, it can hinder turning during driving, posing a significant safety hazard. 3. Methods of Determination: The first method is to drive on a relatively straight road with the steering wheel centered. If the vehicle drifts to one side, it indicates the need for a four-wheel alignment. The second method is to check whether the wear on all four tires is uniform. Particularly for the front wheels, if one side shows significantly more wear than the other, a four-wheel alignment is required.
Of course, there is a charge. As an enthusiast who loves researching cars, I often help friends with car inspections. Wheel alignment is no trivial matter—it corrects wheel angles, prevents uneven tire wear and drifting, and enhances driving safety. Why do dealerships charge for it? Because they use original precision equipment, and their technicians undergo specialized training to ensure the alignment meets vehicle standards. The cost typically ranges between 200 and 500 yuan, depending on the car model and region—for example, mid-to-high-end vehicles may cost more. This includes steps like checking tire wear, adjusting the suspension, and calibrating the steering system. Free alignments are rare unless it's a warranty-covered inspection for new cars or part of a promotional offer. I recommend avoiding cheap roadside shops—while they charge less, their precision may be lacking, leading to higher rework rates. Regular alignments can extend tire life by over 20,000 kilometers, saving fuel and hassle in the long run.
I just had a four-wheel alignment done at the 4S dealership last month, which cost around 300 yuan, and I feel it's worth mentioning. That day, my car kept pulling to the right, and I thought the safety risk was too high, so I booked an appointment at the nearby 4S dealership. The service was quite fast—the technician checked the tire wear and suspension system, then used professional equipment to adjust the angles of the front and rear wheels. The whole process took half an hour, with transparent pricing and a receipt provided. In my opinion, they charge for this service because it requires technical expertise and experience. If the calibration accuracy doesn't meet standards, it can affect braking performance. As an extra note, after the alignment, the handling noticeably improved, and I no longer worry about the car drifting during high-speed turns. To save money, you can go during their promotional events, like year-end maintenance packages, which are more cost-effective. In short, the charge is reasonable—don't risk safety to save a little money.
Charging is necessary, and I have deep personal experience with this. Alignment is crucial for maintenance, preventing excessive tire wear and accidents. Although 4S shop prices are a bit higher, generally ranging between 200-500 yuan, their equipment is advanced and the results are more reliable. I feel at ease every time I go because it involves safe driving. It's recommended to make an appointment in advance to reduce waiting time.
