Alignment
- Thread starter subcop42
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When it is out of alignment or a related part has been replaced. Otherwise it is a waste or $. I don't think I've ever done any of mine in hundreds of thousands of miles, unless a related part was installed. Even then, marking where it was when it came apart is normally just fine.
When you say a related part—if I’ve just replaced all my tires, should I get an alignment?
I believe that was re-set when installed at Costco. I keep hearing conflicting info about alignment after tire change, so this is very helpful.
As long as the vehicle tracks true, your tires do not show an unusual wear pattern and the tires last as long as you expect them too, then you do NOT want anyone to touch your alignment, don't even let anyone give you a "free check".
Alignment racks themselves have to be calibrated periodically. If they are not in calibration, then your alignment will not be right. If you ever find any of the things I described above, be sure to ask the alignment shop how often their racks are calibrated, do they do a periodic cal check themselves and when was the rack last calibrated. Also ask to see the certifications of the technician who will be doing the alignment. A good shop will be glad to answer these questions, if fact they will be proud to answer them and happy you asked. Not so good shops will not be so happy to answer them and will try to dodge them.
Alignment racks themselves have to be calibrated periodically. If they are not in calibration, then your alignment will not be right. If you ever find any of the things I described above, be sure to ask the alignment shop how often their racks are calibrated, do they do a periodic cal check themselves and when was the rack last calibrated. Also ask to see the certifications of the technician who will be doing the alignment. A good shop will be glad to answer these questions, if fact they will be proud to answer them and happy you asked. Not so good shops will not be so happy to answer them and will try to dodge them.
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Parts replacement
Or
If you hit something hard enough to knock the steering wheel off center
Or
If you hit something hard enough to knock the steering wheel off center