How long does an alignment take on a Subaru?
A Subaru alignment typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the specific vehicle and the complexity of the alignment process. The alignment is an important maintenance task that ensures your Subaru's wheels are properly adjusted to improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.
What is a Subaru Alignment?
A Subaru alignment is the process of adjusting the angles of the vehicle's wheels to the manufacturer's specifications. This is done to ensure the wheels are properly aligned, which helps the car drive straight and reduces uneven tire wear. The alignment process involves adjusting the camber, caster, and toe angles of each wheel to bring them into the correct alignment.
Why is a Subaru Alignment Important?
Proper wheel alignment is crucial for several reasons:
- Improved Handling: Correctly aligned wheels allow the vehicle to track straight and respond more precisely to steering inputs, improving the overall handling and driving experience.
- Increased Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned wheels can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, requiring the driver to constantly correct the steering, which can reduce fuel efficiency.
- Longer Tire Life: Properly aligned wheels wear tires more evenly, extending the life of the tires and reducing the need for premature tire replacements.
Regular Subaru alignments, typically recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, help maintain the vehicle's performance and safety.
How Long Does a Subaru Alignment Take?
The time it takes to complete a Subaru alignment can vary depending on several factors:
- Vehicle Model: Some Subaru models may require more complex alignment adjustments, which can take longer to complete.
- Alignment Complexity: If the vehicle's wheels are significantly out of alignment, the technician may need to make more adjustments, which can increase the overall time.
- Alignment Equipment: The type of alignment equipment used, such as a basic alignment rack or a more advanced computerized system, can also affect the time it takes to complete the alignment.
In general, a Subaru alignment can take between 30 minutes to an hour to complete. However, it's important to note that the actual time may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your vehicle and the alignment process.
How long does it typically take to get an alignment done?
A standard alignment takes about 30 to 60 minutes, while a four-wheel alignment typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. The time can increase if worn or damaged suspension components like ball joints or control arms need repair or replacement.
| Type of Alignment | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Standard (front-end/two-wheel) | 30-60 minutes |
| Four-wheel | 60-90 minutes |
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Factors that can increase the time
- Damaged suspension parts: If a technician finds that parts like the ball joint, control arm, or steering bushing are worn or damaged, they will need to be repaired or replaced before the alignment can be completed.
- Age and condition of the vehicle: Older vehicles or those with seized fasteners due to rust can take longer.
- Severity of misalignment: A more severe misalignment may require more time for diagnosis and correction.
- Vehicle type: Larger vehicles or those with advanced suspension systems may take longer to align.
- Additional repairs: If the vehicle has suffered damage from a major impact, more extensive repairs like frame straightening may be necessary, which can significantly increase the total time.
How many minutes does alignment take?
The answer depends on several factors, but in general, a standard two-wheel or front-end alignment takes about 30 to 60 minutes. A four-wheel alignment, which includes the rear wheels in addition to the front, typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. Several factors can affect this timeframe.
How much is an alignment for a Subaru Outback?
A Subaru Outback alignment typically costs between $60 and $150, but can be higher at a dealership, especially if parts are needed. Factors like your location, the shop, and whether additional suspension work is required will influence the final price. Some shops offer lifetime alignment plans for a higher upfront cost, which may be cost-effective if you plan to keep the car for a long time.
Factors that influence the cost
- Dealership vs. Independent Mechanic: Dealerships may charge more due to the use of manufacturer-certified parts and highly trained technicians, but they are often specialists in your vehicle's make. Independent shops may have lower labor rates and offer alternative parts.
- Additional Parts: An alignment is only possible if suspension components like bearings, ball joints, and others are in good working order. If these need to be replaced, the cost will increase.
- Tire Alignment Specifics: Modern vehicles with advanced safety systems like Subaru's EyeSight may require specialized equipment and procedures for alignment, which can affect the price.
- Promotions and Coupons: Many service centers offer alignment specials, coupons, or package deals that can lower the cost.
- Lifetime Alignment Programs: Some tire retailers, like Firestone, offer a one-time payment for a lifetime of free alignments. This can be a good long-term investment if you anticipate needing alignments frequently, but requires a higher initial payment.
What's included in the service
- Front and Rear Alignment: A complete alignment will adjust all four wheels to ensure they are positioned correctly.
- Caster, Camber, and Toe Adjustment: Technicians will adjust the angles of the wheels to meet factory specifications.
- Suspension and Steering Inspection: As part of the process, the alignment will include an inspection of your vehicle's suspension and steering components.
- Road Test: The service typically concludes with a road test to ensure the vehicle is tracking straight.
How long does it take to do an alignment on a Subaru?
about an hour
A: A wheel alignment typically takes about an hour to complete, but it can vary depending on your Subaru's specific make and model.
