Is Wheel Alignment Necessary When Rotating Tires?
2 Answers
Rotating tires does not require wheel alignment. Wheel alignment is needed in the following situations: 1. Damage to the chassis and suspension caused by an accident; 2. Replacement of steering system or components; 3. Uneven wear on one side of the front or rear tires; 4. Replacement or adjustment of the suspension system. Wheel alignment involves adjusting the geometric angles of the tires, steering, and suspension components to ensure tight contact between the tires and the ground. The benefits of wheel alignment include: 1. Enhanced driving safety; 2. Reduced tire wear; 3. Keeping the steering wheel straight when driving straight; 4. Automatic return of the steering wheel after turning, improved driving control, reduced fuel consumption, and decreased wear on suspension components.
Every time I change tires, I consider getting a wheel alignment because last time I didn't do it when installing new tires, and the tires wore unevenly very quickly. Incorrect wheel angles can cause one side to wear faster, which is a waste of money. If your car drives normally without shaking or pulling to one side, you might skip the alignment. However, it's recommended to check it when changing tires, especially if the vehicle shows minor symptoms. Alignment adjusts the camber and toe angles of the wheels to ensure stable driving and longer tire life. Remember, changing tires itself doesn't alter the alignment—it's just about installing new tires. Without alignment, you might experience steering wheel vibration or premature tire wear. Now, I check the alignment during my annual maintenance, which saves both hassle and money.
