How often does a car need a four-wheel alignment?

[Lester]

A car typically needs a four-wheel alignment after driving around 20,000 kilometers. Otherwise, issues such as the car pulling to one side or uneven tire wear may occur. If irregular tire wear becomes severe before reaching 20,000 kilometers—for example, if the left and right sides of the tires wear unevenly or show signs of uneven wear—it is advisable to get a four-wheel alignment as soon as possible. Four-wheel alignment is based on the vehicle's four-wheel parameters and involves adjustments to ensure optimal driving performance and reliability. The installation of a car's steering wheels, steering knuckles, and front axle has specific relative positions, which is referred to as steering wheel alignment or front-wheel alignment. Front-wheel alignment includes four components: caster, camber, toe-out, and toe-in. Rear-wheel alignment consists of camber and individual rear-wheel toe-in. Collectively, these adjustments are known as four-wheel alignment.

[DelMichael]

To be honest, in all my years of driving, wheel alignment isn't something you do based strictly on mileage—it's more about the vehicle's condition. If your car starts pulling to one side, the steering wheel shakes noticeably, or one side of the tires wears out faster, that's when you should get it checked immediately. Generally, I recommend a preventive check every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers, roughly once a year. This is especially important after driving on rough roads or hitting potholes, as the suspension system could be affected. Misalignment can drastically reduce tire lifespan, and new tires aren't cheap. I learned this the hard way—ignoring it once cost me hundreds extra on tire replacements. During routine maintenance, have a technician take a quick look; it saves on repair costs and ensures safety. Remember, don't just go by the numbers—actual driving feel and regular checks are what really matter.

[DelTimothy]

I've always believed that getting a proper wheel alignment is a smart way to save both hassle and money. Uneven tire wear means you'll have to replace a whole set, which costs way more than an alignment check. Under normal circumstances, I go to a professional shop for an inspection every 15,000 kilometers, or without fail after getting new tires, to avoid future troubles. This service improves handling feel, makes the car drive more steadily, and ensures even fuel consumption. If neglected, minor issues can escalate into major problems, even requiring suspension repairs. From personal experience, spending a little on prevention is far better than shelling out big bucks later. Considering driving habits and road conditions, it's advisable to adjust the interval based on actual circumstances—keeping the vehicle in optimal condition is key.

[Emil]

My driving principle is safety first. Improper wheel alignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side and increase braking distance, raising the risk of accidents. When you notice the steering wheel is off-center or abnormal tire wear occurs, it's time to get it checked immediately. There's no fixed mileage interval, but it's best to have a preventive check every 10,000 kilometers or so. Pay attention to the alignment condition after driving on bumpy roads. Proper maintenance of this step ensures handling stability, especially on highways, making driving more reassuring. Don't delay until major problems arise before addressing them.