Is a Wheel Alignment Necessary When Replacing All Four Tires?
2 Answers
During vehicle operation, factors such as bumps or undercarriage impacts can affect wheel alignment data. Additionally, significant differences in tread patterns between new and old tires can also influence alignment. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a wheel alignment after installing four new tires to prevent abnormal wear. Wheel alignment must be performed under the following conditions: When the vehicle drifts immediately to one side after briefly releasing the steering wheel while driving straight on a level road, and this drift direction remains unchanged after switching the two front wheels left and right. When the steering wheel feels loose or shaky during driving, or when it doesn't return to center automatically after turning. When abnormal uneven tire wear is observed, particularly severe wear on one side of the front or rear tires. After the vehicle's chassis or suspension system has been damaged in an accident, a wheel alignment must be performed again.
From my experience of driving for over twenty years, getting a wheel alignment after installing new tires is a must. This ensures the correct wheel angles and prevents uneven wear on the inner or outer edges—otherwise, the tire lifespan can be drastically shortened, with a high chance of them being ruined in just a few months. I remember once skipping it out of laziness, and the new tires ended up wearing unevenly, causing unstable handling and increased body sway during turns—not only wasting money but also compromising safety. An alignment check is inexpensive, costing just around a hundred bucks, much cheaper than buying a new set of tires. I recommend visiting a professional repair shop for the inspection, especially if the vehicle has hit potholes or curbs. Maintaining proper alignment also saves fuel by reducing rolling resistance and improving overall smoothness. Finally, make it a habit to always align after tire changes—it can extend tire life by two to three years. Don’t overlook potential issues to save a small amount of money.
