Is Wheel Alignment Necessary After Shock Absorber Replacement?

[VonStephanie]

If components of the axle or suspension system have been removed, a wheel alignment is required; otherwise, it is unnecessary. Situations requiring wheel alignment include: 1. When the vehicle's driving performance is affected (most notably by the driver feeling the car pulling to one side or the steering wheel not returning to center automatically). 2. Damage to the chassis or suspension caused by an accident. 3. Abnormal tire wear (consider whether abnormal tire pressure is the cause; generally, over-inflation accelerates wear on the center of the tread, while under-inflation accelerates wear on both sides; if wear is uneven on one side, it may indicate a camber angle issue). 4. If components of the axle or suspension system have been removed.