Do you need an alignment after replacing all four tires?

You don’t automatically need a wheel alignment just because you replaced all four tires, but it’s strongly recommended to at least get an alignment check and to align the vehicle if measurements are out of spec. New tires can wear unevenly and prematurely if alignment is off, so confirming and correcting alignment protects your investment and ensures proper handling and safety.

Why alignment is tied to new tires

Wheel alignment sets the angles at which your tires meet the road—primarily toe, camber, and caster—so the vehicle tracks straight, the steering wheel centers, and the tread wears evenly. Installing fresh tires doesn’t change those angles by itself, but misalignment that went unnoticed on old, worn tires can quickly chew up new tread. That’s why most reputable shops suggest at least a measurement when tires are replaced.

Situations where an alignment is recommended with new tires

The following factors increase the odds your alignment is out and that you’ll benefit from an alignment along with your new tires. Consider them a practical checklist before you drive away.

• Uneven or feathered wear on the old tires (inside or outside edge wear, cupping, or feathering)
• Steering wheel off-center when driving straight, or the vehicle pulls left/right
• Recent impacts: potholes, curb hits, or collision repairs
• Suspension or steering work since your last alignment (tie rods, control arms, struts/shocks, bushings)
• It’s been over 12 months or roughly 10,000–15,000 miles since the last alignment
• AWD/4WD, performance cars, EVs, and vehicles with low-profile tires (more sensitive to small misalignments)
• Thrust angle concerns on vehicles with rear independent suspension or after rear component work
• Tire size or wheel offset changed from stock (even minor changes can alter geometry)

If any of these apply, aligning the vehicle when you install new tires is a cost-effective way to avoid rapid, uneven wear and to keep the car tracking true.

When you can probably skip a full alignment (but still get a check)

There are cases where a full alignment may not be necessary, yet a quick measurement is still smart. Here’s what typically points to “you’re fine.”

• Your last full four-wheel alignment was recent (e.g., within 6–12 months) with a printout showing all values in spec
• The old tires wore evenly across the tread, with no edge feathering or cupping
• No steering pull, no off-center wheel, and no recent curb/pothole impacts
• The shop’s alignment check shows angles “in the green” and the steering wheel is centered on the test drive

Even in these cases, a quick check provides documentation and peace of mind, helping you spot minor drift before it costs tread life.

What a proper alignment service includes

A thorough alignment is more than turning tie rods. Expect these steps to ensure accurate results and a centered steering wheel.

• Pre-check: tire pressures set to spec; inspection for worn suspension/steering parts and ride-height issues
• Computerized measurements of front and rear toe, camber, caster, and thrust angle
• Adjustments to bring values within manufacturer specs; camber/caster may require eccentric bolts or cam kits on some cars
• Centering the steering wheel and locking it during adjustment
• Road test and a before/after printout of the alignment measurements

Vehicles without factory camber/caster adjustments may need hardware kits to correct angles; a good shop will advise before proceeding.

Costs, time, and modern-car considerations

Knowing what to expect helps you plan the visit and avoid surprises at the counter.

• Typical U.S. pricing (2025): $100–$200 for a four-wheel alignment; specialty or performance vehicles can run higher
• Time: about 45–90 minutes if no parts are seized and no additional hardware is required
• Extra charges: seized bolts, alignment cam kits, or worn parts replacement
• ADAS notes: Tire replacement alone doesn’t require sensor recalibration. An alignment generally doesn’t either, but some OEM procedures call for ADAS camera/radar calibration after suspension or geometry changes on specific models—your shop should follow the service manual and advise if needed

If you’re offered a “lifetime alignment” package, compare the cost with how often you realistically expect adjustments over the next few years.

Don’t confuse alignment with balance

People often mix up alignment and balancing. They solve different problems, and after new tires you typically want both checked.

• Wheel balance addresses vibrations or shaking (especially at highway speeds) by equalizing the tire/wheel assembly’s weight distribution
• Wheel alignment addresses directional stability and tread wear by correcting toe, camber, and caster angles
• Road-force balancing can diagnose and minimize vibration from tire uniformity issues that standard balancing can’t resolve

If you feel vibration, think “balance” first; if the car drifts or the wheel isn’t straight, think “alignment.” Many shops will perform both services during a tire install.

Practical tips after installing four new tires

These quick steps help you get the most life and performance from your new set.

• Confirm tire pressures are set to the door-jamb placard (not the sidewall) and that TPMS is initialized if required
• Request an alignment check and keep the printout; proceed with adjustments if out of spec
• Ensure wheels are torqued to spec and ask for a re-torque after 50–100 miles
• Rotate tires every 5,000–8,000 miles (or per your vehicle/tire maker’s guidance)
• Recheck alignment annually or after a hard impact, suspension work, or if you notice pull or uneven wear
• For EVs and performance cars, be extra diligent—added weight and aggressive geometry can accelerate wear when alignment is off

A few small habits—pressure checks, rotations, and periodic alignment verification—can add thousands of miles to tire life.

Bottom line

You don’t have to align a car solely because you installed four new tires, but it’s smart to at least measure alignment at that time and correct it if needed. The modest cost of an alignment is often repaid many times over in tread life, straight tracking, and safe, predictable handling.

Summary

Replacing all four tires doesn’t require an automatic alignment, but a check is highly recommended. Align if angles are out, if you see uneven wear, feel a pull, just hit a pothole, or it’s been a year or ~10–15k miles. Expect $100–$200 and under two hours for a proper four-wheel alignment with a before/after printout. Balance addresses vibration; alignment protects wear and handling. Keep pressures correct, rotate on schedule, and recheck alignment periodically to maximize the life of your new tires.

How do I tell if I need an alignment?

You may need a wheel alignment if your vehicle’s steering wheel is off-center, your car pulls to one side, your tires show uneven wear, or you feel a vibration in the steering wheel. Other signs include squealing tires or a loose, unresponsive steering feel. If you notice these symptoms, have a professional technician check your car’s alignment, as improper alignment can also lead to decreased fuel economy and poor handling.
 
Common Signs of Misalignment

• Off-Center Steering Wheel: Opens in new tabIf your steering wheel isn’t straight when driving on a level road, your car likely needs an alignment. 
• Vehicle Pulling: Opens in new tabYour car drifting or pulling to the left or right, even when you’re trying to drive straight, is a strong indicator of misalignment. 
• Uneven Tire Wear: Opens in new tabInspect your tires for uneven wear patterns on the inside or outside edges of the tread, which can signal alignment issues. 
• Vibrating Steering Wheel: Opens in new tabA noticeable vibration or shaking in the steering wheel while driving can point to either an alignment problem or unbalanced tires. 
• Squealing Tires: Opens in new tabTires may squeal or make unusual noises when turning due to improper alignment. 
• Loose or Wandering Steering: Opens in new tabA steering feel that seems unstable or requires constant correction to stay in a straight line can be a symptom of a poor alignment. 

What to Do If You Suspect an Alignment Issue
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to visit a qualified service technician for a professional alignment check. They can perform a road test and use alignment tools to accurately diagnose the issue and make the necessary adjustments to your vehicle’s suspension.

How much does 4 wheel alignment cost?

Expected wheel alignment costs

City	State	Expected price
Los Angeles	California	$120 to $165
Chicago	Illinois	$112 to $151
Dallas	Texas	$110 to $153
Orlando	Florida	$109 to $156

Do you need an alignment after replacing all 4 tires?

One of the most frequent questions we encounter is, “Do I need an alignment after replacing my tires?” The short answer is a resounding yes.

Is it okay to get new tires but not an alignment?

You should get a wheel alignment for your vehicle if you have just had new tires installed. Doing so is important so you can get the most out of your vehicle’s new tires. Technically speaking, it is not necessary to get a wheel alignment after getting new tires installed. However, it is a good idea to do so.