When Should a Car Undergo Four-Wheel Alignment?

[LaTalia]

New vehicles should undergo four-wheel alignment promptly after three months of driving or following a collision. Below is information regarding four-wheel alignment: 1. Four-wheel alignment is based on the vehicle's four-wheel parameters, adjusted to ensure optimal driving performance and certain reliability. 2. The installation of a car's steering wheels, steering knuckles, and front axle involves specific relative positions. This installation with defined relative positions is called steering wheel alignment, also known as front-wheel alignment. Front-wheel alignment includes four components: kingpin caster (angle), kingpin inclination (angle), wheel camber (angle), and toe-in. 3. For the two rear wheels, there is also a relative position in their installation with the rear axle, referred to as rear-wheel alignment, which includes wheel camber (angle) and individual rear wheel toe-in. Collectively, front-wheel alignment and rear-wheel alignment are termed four-wheel alignment.

[Jessica]

I've been driving for over 20 years, and I always get a wheel alignment done at the shop after installing new tires. The angles need to be adjusted precisely when new tires are mounted, otherwise uneven wear can be severe, forcing you to replace them within months and wasting money. During routine maintenance, I also remind technicians to check it. Even a slight misalignment warrants an alignment—signs like an off-center steering wheel or the car veering on straight roads are clear indicators. After an accident, it's even more crucial; if the suspension components have been impacted, they must be readjusted to prevent accelerated wear. Regular alignment checks, say every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers, are worth the small investment—just a few dozen bucks. It extends tire life, saves fuel costs, and makes highway driving much more stable. Personally, I find it absolutely worthwhile.

[AniyahRose]

As a car enthusiast, I love tinkering with the suspension system. After replacing shock absorbers or modifying suspension components, it's essential to perform wheel alignment immediately; otherwise, misaligned wheel angles can affect handling. Installing new tires is also an ideal time to adjust angles like camber and toe to prevent uneven wear and reduce the risk of tire blowouts. In daily driving, if you notice the steering wheel doesn't return properly or experience significant body vibrations at high speeds, promptly check the alignment parameters. Maintaining proper alignment enhances driving safety and stability, making the car less prone to skidding on wet roads and ensuring a smoother ride. Generally, it's recommended to address this during routine maintenance every 20,000 kilometers.

[OGeorge]

I've always been frugal, and my car maintenance experience has taught me that small savings lead to big gains. Getting an alignment after installing new tires is essential—otherwise, they'll wear out quickly and cost you more in premature replacements. If the suspension has been worked on, like after an accident, have it aligned during repairs to prevent misalignment and excessive tire wear. If you notice the car pulling to one side or hear uneven tire noise, get an alignment—it's an investment of around $100 but can save you thousands in new tire expenses. Set a regular check-up cycle every 15,000 km to ensure the wheels are properly aligned, extending tire life and improving fuel efficiency—a truly economical approach.

[MayaDella]

With children in the car, safety is the top priority. After getting new tires, I always get a wheel alignment to ensure proper angles and prevent uneven wear risks. I also have it adjusted immediately after an accident or when replacing shock absorbers, making sure the wheels are properly aligned for straight driving and to avoid dangerous lane changes at high speeds. If the steering wheel feels off-center or there's noticeable tire noise while driving, I get it checked. Proper alignment improves handling stability, especially in bad weather for added safety. I include an alignment during regular maintenance, doing it every 20,000 kilometers or so – a small time investment for the peace of mind of safe family driving.