Is a Wheel Alignment Necessary After Replacing Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
It depends. If the axle and suspension components have been removed, a wheel alignment is required; if not, it is unnecessary. For some vehicle models, replacing the shock absorbers involves removing all connecting components between the front suspension and the tires, which affects the wheel alignment parameters. Therefore, a wheel alignment should be performed after replacing the shock absorbers. Here are the situations that require a wheel alignment: 1. The vehicle's driving performance is affected. 2. The chassis and suspension are damaged due to an accident. 3. Abnormal tire wear occurs. Overinflated tires will increase tread wear, while underinflated tires will increase wear on both sides of the tread; if one side shows uneven wear, it indicates a deviation in the camber angle. 4. The axle and suspension components have been removed.
After replacing the shock absorbers, I think it's better to do a wheel alignment. I once replaced the shock absorbers myself, thinking that everything would be fine with new parts, but later I noticed the steering wheel was slightly off-center and the tires were wearing unevenly. After a check, I found out the alignment had been disturbed. During the shock absorber replacement process, the suspension system often needs to be disassembled and reassembled, which can slightly alter the wheel angles. If not adjusted properly, it can easily cause the vehicle to pull to one side or result in uneven tire wear. I suggest you get the alignment checked at a professional shop as soon as possible after the replacement. Spending a little money now can save you the big expense of replacing tires later. Additionally, regular alignment checks during routine maintenance are important, especially if you frequently drive on highways or rough roads. In short, for safety's sake, don't skip this step.
