Does Car Service Include Wheel Alignment?

When you take your car in for service, you expect a thorough checkup and maintenance to keep it running smoothly. But does a standard car service include a wheel alignment? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a simple yes or no.

What Does a Typical Car Service Entail?

A regular car service typically covers a range of routine checks and maintenance tasks, such as:

Oil and filter change: Essential for engine lubrication and performance.
Fluid top-ups: Maintaining correct levels for brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, etc.
Brake inspection: Checking brake pads, discs, and fluid for wear and tear.
Tire pressure check: Ensuring tires are inflated to the recommended levels.
Battery test: Assessing battery health and charge.
Visual inspections: Looking for any signs of damage, leaks, or potential issues.

While these routine tasks are crucial for your car’s health, wheel alignment is often considered a separate service.

Why Wheel Alignment Isn’t Always Included

Wheel alignment ensures your wheels are pointing in the correct direction and are parallel to each other. It’s not a standard part of every car service due to several factors:

Not always needed: Unlike oil changes or brake inspections, wheel alignment isn’t required at every service interval. It’s usually recommended once or twice a year or if you notice specific symptoms.
Time and equipment: Alignment requires specialized equipment and expertise, adding extra time and cost to a routine service.
Variable pricing: Alignment costs can vary depending on the car model and the severity of misalignment.

Misaligned vs. Aligned Wheels

Signs Your Car Needs a Wheel Alignment

So, how do you know if your car needs an alignment? Watch out for these telltale signs:

Pulling to one side: If your car veers left or right even when the steering wheel is straight, it’s a strong indicator of misalignment.
Uneven tire wear: Excessive wear on one side of the tire or feathered edges suggest an alignment problem.
Crooked steering wheel: If your steering wheel isn’t centered when driving straight, it’s a sign of misalignment.
Vibration in the steering wheel: A vibrating steering wheel, especially at higher speeds, could indicate alignment issues.

Should You Get Your Wheels Aligned During a Car Service?

While not mandatory, getting a wheel alignment during your car service can be beneficial:

Preventative maintenance: Regular alignment can prevent premature tire wear and improve fuel efficiency.
Enhanced handling: Proper alignment ensures your car handles optimally, providing a smoother and safer driving experience.
Convenience: Combining alignment with your service saves you a separate trip to the mechanic.

Talking to Your Mechanic

The best approach is to talk to your mechanic about wheel alignment during your car service. They can:

Inspect your car: They’ll assess your car’s alignment and recommend whether it’s necessary.
Explain the cost: You’ll get a clear understanding of the alignment cost and whether it fits your budget.
Schedule the service: They can incorporate the alignment into your existing service appointment.

Conclusion

While wheel alignment isn’t always included in a standard Car Service, it’s a crucial aspect of car maintenance. By understanding the signs of misalignment and communicating with your mechanic, you can make informed decisions to keep your car running smoothly and safely.

FAQs

Q: How often should I get my wheels aligned?

A: It’s generally recommended to get a wheel alignment once or twice a year, or sooner if you notice any signs of misalignment.

Q: How much does a wheel alignment cost?

A: The cost varies depending on your car model and the service provider, but you can expect to pay between $50 to $200.

Q: Can I drive my car with misaligned wheels?

A: While you can technically drive with misaligned wheels, it’s not recommended. It can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling, affecting your safety on the road.

Need more information about car servicing? Check out these articles:

Have other car maintenance questions? Contact us!

WhatsApp: +1(641)206-8880

Email: [email protected]

Our dedicated customer support team is available 24/7 to assist you.