When should a wheel alignment be done?
A wheel alignment should be done when you notice signs of misalignment, after suspension work or road impacts, or as part of routine maintenance. Common signals include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a steering wheel that sits off-center. Many manufacturers and shops recommend checks every 12,000–15,000 miles or every 1–2 years, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions.
Why alignment matters
Wheel alignment ensures the angles of the wheels match the vehicle’s design specifications. Proper toe, camber, and caster angles improve steering stability, maximize tire life, and optimize fuel efficiency. Misalignment can lead to handling problems and uneven tire wear over time.
- Your vehicle pulls to the left or right on a straight road
- The steering wheel is off-center when driving straight
- You notice uneven or accelerated tire wear, especially on inner or outer edges
- You’ve recently hit a pothole, curb, or experienced road damage
- You’ve had suspension or steering work (tie rods, control arms, ball joints, shocks/struts) replaced
- You’ve installed new tires and want to ensure optimal performance and wear
A properly aligned vehicle improves handling, reduces tire wear, and can enhance fuel efficiency. If you observe any of the signs listed above, have a professional check the alignment promptly.
How often to schedule a wheel alignment
There isn’t a universal interval for every vehicle. Use the owner’s manual and your driving conditions as guides, and consider regular checks during tire rotations or annual service. The baseline guidance many shops use is to plan a full alignment every 12,000–15,000 miles or every 1–2 years, whichever comes first. More frequent checks may be needed in harsh conditions or after major road damage.
- Plan a routine alignment check during tire rotations, typically every 6,000–8,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and shop recommendations
- Expect a full alignment every 12,000–15,000 miles or 1–2 years as a baseline, adjusted for driving style and conditions
- Have an alignment after suspension work, hitting large potholes, curbs, or after replacing steering components or tires
- Note that some vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) may require recalibration after alignment or wheel/tire changes
In short, use symptoms, maintenance events, and manufacturer guidelines to decide when to align, and don’t hesitate to seek a check sooner if you notice steering or wear issues.
What to expect during an alignment
During a typical alignment, a technician will inspect suspension and steering components, measure wheel angles using an alignment rack or modern sensor equipment, and adjust toe, camber, and sometimes caster to the manufacturer’s specifications. Some vehicles, especially those with ADAS, may require additional calibrations after the alignment. The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the vehicle and any related repairs.
Summary
Wheel alignment is a key aspect of vehicle maintenance that protects your tires, ensures predictable handling, and can improve fuel efficiency. Seek an alignment if you notice pulling, off-center steering, or uneven tire wear; schedule routine checks in line with your manual and driving conditions; and be aware that modern vehicles with ADAS may need sensor recalibration after alignment. When in doubt, a quick professional inspection can help determine the appropriate timing for your specific car.
