Is a Wheel Alignment Necessary When Replacing New Tires?
3 Answers
Wheel alignment is not necessary when replacing new tires. It is only required when the vehicle experiences steering pull, severe tire wear, or uneven tire wear. After replacing tires or rims, repairing tires, experiencing significant wheel impacts, or losing balance weights due to bumps, a wheel balance is needed. Unlike regular maintenance, wheel alignment is a repair procedure and should not be performed unless there is an issue. Wheel alignment involves adjusting the rear camber, kingpin inclination, front wheel camber, front toe, and rear toe based on the vehicle's four tires to achieve a relatively balanced state, improving driving stability.
Getting a wheel alignment when replacing tires isn't always mandatory, but from a safety perspective, I make it a habit to check after tire changes. Without alignment, issues like uneven tire wear or vehicle pulling may occur, shortening tire lifespan and even affecting braking performance. Last time I skipped alignment during tire replacement, my new tires showed severe wear on one side within just six months - ended up spending 100-200 yuan to fix it. I recommend inspecting the suspension system during tire changes. If the vehicle has been in a collision or experiences steering wheel vibrations, alignment becomes even more crucial. Wheel balancing is also essential - it's key for ensuring smooth high-speed tire rotation. Tire replacement presents a perfect maintenance opportunity; don't penny-pinch only to lose big later. Regular checks of these details enhance driving safety and reduce accident risks. It's like checking your walking posture when changing shoes - prevents twisted ankles.
Whether to perform a wheel alignment after replacing new tires depends on the specific situation. Personally, I don't think it's necessary every time. If the vehicle drives steadily without abnormal tire wear or pulling to one side, a simple wheel balance is usually sufficient. An alignment costs around 100-200 yuan, so it's reasonable to skip it when the budget is tight. However, if there was an accident after the last tire change or you noticed uneven wear on the old tires, an alignment is a must. Last time I changed tires, I opted for an alignment—though it cost extra, the tires wore evenly over three years, saving me the expense of premature replacement. When installing new tires, always check the brake pads and tire pressure, as routine maintenance matters too. Don’t just focus on alignment; comprehensive care is what pays off. A tire change is a maintenance milestone—handling it right can extend your car’s lifespan.
