Do I Need a Wheel Alignment After Getting New Tires?
2 Answers
Wheel alignment is not necessary when changing tires. Wheel alignment involves adjusting the geometric angles between the tires and steering/suspension components to ensure optimal tire contact with the road. Circumstances requiring wheel alignment include: 1. Damage to the chassis or suspension caused by accidents. 2. Replacement of steering system components. 3. Uneven wear on one side of front or rear tires. 4. Replacement or adjustment of suspension system. Benefits of wheel alignment: 1. Enhanced driving safety. 2. Reduced tire wear. 3. Maintains straight steering wheel position during straight-line driving. 4. Automatic steering wheel return after turns, improved driving control, reduced fuel consumption, and decreased suspension component wear.
Right after I got the new tires installed, I didn't do a wheel alignment immediately. After driving for a few days, I noticed the car started pulling to one side, with the steering wheel constantly tugging left, and the ride felt wobbly – really annoying. Later, I went to the repair shop and asked the mechanic. He said if it's just a simple tire change without touching the suspension components, an alignment isn't necessarily required right away, unless the old tires had uneven wear or the car had been in a collision. But for safety's sake, he recommended doing a wheel balance first to check if the wheels are properly balanced. If there's abnormal vibration or handling instability, it's still worth spending the time and money on an alignment to avoid uneven tire wear within six months – that would be a real waste of money. Now I've developed a habit: after getting new tires, I drive for a few days to feel how the car responds. If anything feels off, I address it right away – it's both peace of mind and safer.
