When should I get alignment checked/changed?

[clevernickname]

Or is this something the dealer will let me know about.

Stock suspension...just changing my 18s to 20s.

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[Banjo]

I think the old wisdom was to do it every time you get a new set of tires. I normally don't though unless I do suspension work. It is probably not necessary but wouldn't hurt while changing wheels. That ~$65 could save you $100s in tires.

 

[VinnAY]

Most places will check alignment for free and only charge if its out of spec. used to be to that you'd find a $40 charge to check it and another $40 if it's out spec. In my area anyway.

 

[NightmareMoon]

Checking your alignment when you get new tires sound like about the right interval for most people.

If you're having handling issues or notice poor tire wear patterns developing, then sure, check it more often.

Just had mine checked (installing new race rubber) and after only 1 year, my front toe had drifted in. Everything else was unchanged.

 

[NightmareMoon]

Also, I always have the alignment done by a trusted shop on any new or used car I take ownership of. Factory tolerances are far too loose for me.

 

[jbailer]

I would say whenever you mess it up. Meaning if you take it over very rough roads often, you might want to get it checked if you see uneven tire wear. Or if you lower the car or do any work on the suspension that involves loosening things that will need to be re-adjusted. I know whenever I take my car to the dealer, they always throw that little quick checker on there and tell me my alignment is out and want me to pay to have it done. Mine isn't out of alignment, it's not adjusted the way Ford recommends it stock.

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