Cost of Wheel Alignment

     The cost of wheel alignment is based on the cost of living in your particular area.  A typical wheel alignment of just the front two wheels will probably cost $30-$65.  If you need a four-wheel alignment, you will probably pay $50-$95.  The cost is typically higher if you drive a van or 4x4.  Sometimes this cost will include a tire rotation as well.

     Tires can go out of alignment for a variety of reasons.  First, if you bump into curbs or objects, you may accidentally nudge them out of alignment.  When your vehicle's wheels are out of alignment, the pulling that occurs will have negative effects on your tires due to the constant drag on the side of the tire.  This will also negatively impact your gas mileage. 

     Experts state that you should have a wheel alignment annually.  Also, if you feel that your car starts to pull to one side or drift, it is time for a wheel alignment.  You are also in need of a wheel alignment for your vehicle if there is uneven tread wear on your car's tires.  Having a yearly tire alignment will help add thousands of miles on your tires over the course of the life of your tires. 

     Before any wheel alignment is done, the vehicle should be tested on the road so that the technician can be informed about what is happening with the vehicle.  The technician should also check that the tires and wheels are matching and tire pressures are correct.  The front end of the vehicle should also be inspected for bent or broken parts.  The process of getting your car's wheels aligned should only take about an hour.  The technician will put your vehicle on a platform that will allow your vehicle's wheels to spin; then a computer is utilized to determine the alignment in comparison to the manufacturer's specifications. 

     We recommend getting a four-wheel alignment rather than a two-wheel alignment.   While a two-wheel alignment will save you money at this time, you will not be assured that your vehicle is properly aligned.  Your vehicle's tire tred and handling may be at risk.  Technicians typically will no longer perform two-wheel alignments due to the fact that they only align the front wheels to the car's center line instead of all four.