How Often Should a Car Get a Four-Wheel Alignment?
3 Answers
There is no fixed interval for four-wheel alignment for cars. Unlike regular maintenance, it is a repair measure that is only needed when the vehicle has issues. If there are no problems, four-wheel alignment is unnecessary. Generally, household cars can have a tire alignment check once a year. For vehicles with high usage frequency or those frequently driven on rough roads, a four-wheel alignment can be done every six months. Four-wheel alignment involves adjusting parameters to determine the positions of the wheels, steering knuckles, and front and rear axles, ensuring the car maintains good driving performance and enhances driving safety. It is based on the vehicle's four-wheel parameters and adjusted to ensure optimal driving performance and reliability.
Having driven for over a decade, my experience tells me that wheel alignment isn't a strictly scheduled maintenance item—it depends on the situation. Generally, it's recommended to check every 20,000 kilometers or annually. Personally, I prefer having it inspected during routine servicing, as it helps prevent premature tire wear and misalignment. I remember getting an alignment immediately after installing new tires last time, which avoided subsequent vibration issues. If you frequently drive on rough roads, the frequency should be higher; otherwise, the suspension may suffer, affecting fuel efficiency and ride comfort. Don't wait for obvious issues like off-center steering or vehicle pulling—by then, it's often too late. Overall, following professional technician advice while considering your driving habits is the safest approach—it saves both hassle and money.
As a vehicle maintenance enthusiast, I emphasize that wheel alignment should be done when necessary, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. Generally, it's checked every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers, but key triggers include: after tire replacement, following severe impacts, or when handling becomes sluggish. I personally perform a simple check of alignment parameters during every maintenance session to prevent minor issues from escalating. Neglecting alignment can lead to uneven tire wear and even accelerate suspension aging, increasing road noise and fuel costs. It's best to visit a reliable shop for instrument measurements rather than blindly following a rigid mileage-based schedule. Pay attention to changes in suspension sounds during daily driving—for instance, loud noises when cornering serve as warning signs. In short, adjust the frequency flexibly based on road conditions and vehicle status.
