Under what circumstances is a wheel alignment needed?
3 Answers
The following situations require a wheel alignment: 1. Generally, when a vehicle has been driven for 20,000 kilometers or one year (whichever comes first), a wheel alignment must be performed. 2. When driving straight on a flat road and you need to grip the steering wheel tightly to prevent the vehicle from pulling to one side, it indicates that a wheel alignment is needed. 3. When you feel the car body floating or swaying during normal driving, as if turning or driving on rough roads. 4. When one side of the front or rear tires shows particularly severe wear. 5. When the car pulls to the left or right while driving straight. 6. After installing new tires or following repairs due to collision accidents, steering, or suspension system issues. 7. After driving a new car for approximately 3,000 kilometers. Benefits of a wheel alignment: 1. Ensures stable driving performance and enhances driving pleasure. 2. Prevents traffic accidents caused by vehicle misalignment. 3. Reduces tire wear and extends tire lifespan. 4. Decreases fuel consumption by minimizing 'tire scrubbing' during driving. 5. Reduces wear on the vehicle's driving, steering, and suspension systems, extending the lifespan of these components.
As a car owner who enjoys DIY repairs, I have to say wheel alignment is quite important, especially after installing new tires or suspension components. If the angles aren't adjusted properly, the wheels will be misaligned, causing the steering wheel to pull uncomfortably during driving. For example, last time I replaced the shock absorbers without getting an alignment, and the car kept pulling to the right, wearing down the inner edges of the tires so badly that I had to replace them prematurely, wasting extra money. Also, if your car has been in a minor accident—like hitting a curb or getting rear-ended—even if there's no visible damage, it's best to check the alignment. Otherwise, uneven tire wear will shorten their lifespan and affect braking distance. If you notice excessive vibration or an off-center steering wheel during normal driving, those are warning signs too. I've made it a habit to get my alignment checked at the shop every 20,000 kilometers or so—it gives me peace of mind and helps save fuel.
Having driven a taxi for over a decade, spending every day on the road, I know that wheel alignment is nothing to take lightly. The most common issues are the car pulling to one side or the steering wheel not returning to center, causing the vehicle to drift left or right when going straight. That's when I immediately get it adjusted—otherwise, passengers feel unstable and tire wear increases. I always get an alignment when replacing tires, too. Without proper alignment, new tires can wear out in less than six months due to incorrect angles, which is too costly. After chassis repairs or accidents, don’t delay—recently, my car lightly hit a tree. Though the damage seemed minor, driving without an alignment made turns feel stiff and unstable. Before long trips, I pay extra attention; proper alignment ensures smoother driving, better fuel efficiency, and higher safety. I recommend checking alignment at least once a year to keep the car easy to handle and durable.
