Do I Need a Wheel Alignment When Replacing 4 New Tires?
4 Answers
Replacing new tires does not require a wheel alignment, only wheel balancing is needed. Here is some information about replacing new tires: 1. Conditions for wheel alignment: However, if the old tires show signs of uneven wear or feathering, a wheel alignment is necessary. This is because uneven wear or feathering indicates incorrect wheel alignment data. 2. Precautions: When parking by the roadside, leave some distance between the tires and the curb. The tire sidewall is the weakest part of the tire, and frequent contact with the curb can cause bulges or damage. If the tire sidewall has bulges or damage, the tire needs to be replaced.
I've been driving for over a decade and have changed tires several times. I feel that every time I get new tires, I should also get a wheel alignment, otherwise the wasted money is a small matter compared to the safety hazards. Last time I replaced four new tires without an alignment, and after just a few thousand kilometers, I noticed severe wear on the inner edges of the two front tires. Upon inspection, I found out the alignment was off. Alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels to ensure even force distribution across all tires, extending the life of new tires and improving steering stability. If your car hasn't been in an accident, the steering wheel isn't crooked, and tire pressure is even, you might not need an alignment immediately. But to be safe, spending an extra hundred or so to check can save you the hassle and expense of premature tire wear and replacement later. Also, remind the technician to check during regular maintenance.
From a cost-saving perspective, getting a wheel alignment when replacing tires isn't mandatory—save where you can. Alignments usually cost extra, say 200-300 yuan, but if your car drives normally without pulling or unusual noises, you can drive for a while after tire replacement before deciding. I've personally tried skipping alignment after new tires and drove fine for six months. However, if you've previously hit curbs or notice steering wheel misalignment, never skip this expense—uneven tire wear could ruin new tires prematurely, costing more in the long run. Tire lifespan affects fuel efficiency and handling; penny-wise but pound-foolish. Discuss your car's condition with the mechanic during tire changes—address issues if found, flexibility is wisest.
Safety is paramount, which is why I always insist on a wheel alignment when replacing all four tires. Incorrect wheel angles can cause new tires to wear out quickly, leading to poor traction and increasing the risk of losing control at high speeds or during turns, thereby raising the chances of accidents. Alignment adjusts the wheel balance, ensuring even contact between the new tires and the road surface, preventing uneven wear or potential blowouts. I emphasize this during every maintenance session—I don’t want to cut corners only to pay a heavier price later. A car without proper alignment may pull to one side, compromising overall driving stability, especially in rainy conditions or on mountain roads. Timely alignment ensures a safer drive, protecting both yourself and others—don’t wait for an accident to regret it.
