Will the Car Be Ruined After a Wheel Alignment?
2 Answers
Getting a wheel alignment won't ruin your car, as it only adjusts the angles and relative positions between the tires, steering system, suspension system, and front/rear axles. If the vehicle shows no abnormalities but still undergoes a wheel alignment, potential issues may arise, such as the car developing a drift after the alignment when it didn't have one before. Additionally, frequent wheel alignments can make calibration less effective. However, if the vehicle exhibits abnormal tire wear, heavy steering, drifting, accelerated component wear, or increased fuel consumption after prolonged use, a wheel alignment can be beneficial. It helps address abnormal tire wear, reduce component wear and fuel consumption, and resolve issues like heavy steering and vehicle drifting.
Last time my car was pulling to one side so I got a wheel alignment, but the steering wheel actually became heavier, which scared me into asking an experienced mechanic. He said nowadays they use computer alignment machines that adjust suspension parameters, not dismantle the engine. The key is whether the data is accurate - if the tire camber exceeds 1 degree it'll cause uneven tire wear, and a 3mm difference in toe-in value will make the steering wheel crooked. Remember last time my cousin got it done at a roadside stall with uncalibrated equipment, and it wore out two tires in three months. A proper shop will test drive after alignment - the car should be able to drive straight for 100 meters with hands off the wheel to pass. But beware: if the chassis was damaged but not properly repaired or suspension components are worn out, alignment might expose these issues, making people think 'the alignment ruined my car'.
