When You Get New Tires, Do You Need an Alignment?

Car Maintenance & Repairs
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Introduction

I’ve recently purchased new tires for my car, and it got me thinking about whether I need to get a wheel alignment done after the installation. I’ve heard mixed opinions on this, so I wanted to gather some insights from the community.

Key Points

  • Tire Installation Impact: I’ve read that new tires, especially if they’re a different size or type, can affect how the car sits on the road.
  • Signs of Misalignment: I’ve experienced uneven tire wear in the past, and I’d like to know if new tires could exacerbate any underlying alignment issues.
  • Safety Concerns: Control and handling are critical for safety, and I’m worried that skipping an alignment could lead to trouble down the road.

Questions

  1. Is an alignment necessary every time you install new tires?
  2. What are the main indicators that would suggest I should get an alignment done?
  3. How often should alignments be performed—only when new tires are installed, or is it more of a routine check?

I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences on this. Thanks in advance for your help!

2

Getting an alignment after new tires is crucial! Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear and can significantly affect your driving experience. Don’t skip it!

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Absolutely! An alignment helps ensure that your new tires wear evenly and last longer. It’s definitely worth the extra cost.

5 Likes
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I once ignored getting an alignment after new tires and it was a huge mistake. My tires wore out unevenly, and I had to replace them way too soon!

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Been there! Proper alignment definitely saves you money in the long run. It also improves handling, which everyone wants!

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6

It seems like such a small detail, but getting an alignment really does make a world of difference in how your car drives.

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7

So true! If your wheels are misaligned, your vehicle can pull to one side, making it less safe to drive.

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I don’t see why some people think alignments aren’t necessary. It’s basic car maintenance! Why risk damage or unsafe driving?

9

Exactly! It’s like getting a haircut after growing your hair long; it just makes everything work better.

10

I just got new tires but didn’t align them. Hoping that my driving habits won’t lead to trouble soon! Should I be worried?

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Yes! Get an alignment ASAP. It’s better to spend a little now than to pay for premature tire replacements later.

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If you didn’t align your tires when they were installed, you’re playing tire roulette! You might be fine, or you might be looking at uneven wear in a few months.

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Haha! Exactly! It’s just not worth the gamble. Alignments are like insurance for your tires!

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I’ve learned the hard way that not getting aligned can really mess with your steering and braking too. Definitely get it done!

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Right? If you want your car to respond well, alignment is essential—like tuning a musical instrument.

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I’ve found that whether or not to get an alignment can spark quite a debate! Some people just don’t get it.

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New tires are exciting! But definitely check for signs of alignment issues. If your car pulls to one side, that’s a big red flag.

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I completely agree! Steering vibrations also signal a potential need for an alignment. I’ve experienced this myself!

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Vibrations while driving can be super annoying! If they’re accompanied by uneven tire wear, it’s definitely time to get checked.

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True! I didn’t think about tire wear. It’s a good point and something to examine closely.