Is Wheel Alignment Necessary When Changing New Tires?
2 Answers
Wheel alignment is not necessary when changing new tires; only wheel balancing is required. Wheel alignment is based on the four-wheel parameters of the vehicle, adjusted to ensure good driving performance and a certain level of reliability. Wheel balancing refers to the balance between the wheels when the vehicle is in motion, commonly achieved by adding balancing weights. Tires often operate under complex and demanding conditions, enduring various deformations, loads, forces, and high and low temperatures during driving. Therefore, tires must have relatively high load-bearing capacity, traction performance, and cushioning performance, as well as high wear resistance and flex resistance, along with relatively low rolling resistance and heat generation.
I've been driving for almost 20 years and have dealt with numerous tire repairs. Getting a wheel alignment isn't always necessary when installing new tires, unless there's been a prior accident or steering wheel misalignment. Proper wheel alignment is crucial for even tire wear - without it, new tires can quickly wear unevenly on one side and also affect fuel efficiency. Personally, I always check the alignment with every tire change to prevent minor issues from escalating, avoiding extra trips to the repair shop. Remember, vehicle maintenance is a long-term commitment - don't waste extra money and time by cutting corners.
