When should I get an alignment after installing new wheels and tires?

Getting an alignment after installing new wheels and tires is one of the most important steps to ensure your new setup performs properly and your tires wear evenly over time. Here is everything you need to know about when and why to get an alignment after a new wheel and tire installation.

Should I always get an alignment after installing new wheels and tires?

In most cases, yes. Getting an alignment after installing new wheels and tires is always a good idea, but it becomes especially important in the following situations:

• You installed wheels with a different offset than your factory wheels
• You installed a significantly larger or wider tire than your factory size
• You added a lift kit, leveling kit, or any suspension modifications along with your new wheels and tires
• Your vehicle was already showing signs of pulling or uneven tire wear before the installation
• It has been a while since your last alignment

Even if none of the above apply, a fresh alignment after a new wheel and tire installation is a simple and affordable way to protect your investment and make sure everything is set up correctly.

What happens if I skip the alignment?

Skipping an alignment after installing new wheels and tires can lead to a number of issues over time, including:

• Uneven or premature tire wear that can significantly shorten the life of your new tires
• Your vehicle pulling to one side while driving
• Reduced fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance from misaligned wheels
• Increased wear on steering and suspension components
• A less comfortable and less predictable driving experience overall

How does wheel offset affect alignment?

If you installed wheels with a different offset than your factory wheels, this can change how your tires make contact with the road and affect your alignment settings. Here is what to know:

• A lower offset pushes the wheels further outward, which can change the camber and toe settings of your vehicle
• A higher offset tucks the wheels further inward, which can also affect alignment settings
• Even a small change in offset can be enough to throw off your alignment and cause uneven tire wear over time

How do lift kits and leveling kits affect alignment?

Any suspension modification that changes the ride height of your vehicle will almost always require an alignment afterward. Here is what to know:

• Lift kits and leveling kits change the geometry of your suspension, which directly affects your alignment settings
• Running a lifted or leveled vehicle without getting an alignment can cause rapid and uneven tire wear as well as pulling and handling issues
• Always get an alignment after installing a lift kit or leveling kit, regardless of whether you also changed your wheels and tires

When should I get the alignment done?

The best time to get an alignment is right after your new wheels and tires are installed and before putting significant miles on them. Here is a general guideline:

• Get an alignment as soon as possible after installation, ideally at the same time or immediately after your wheels and tires are installed
• If you notice pulling, uneven wear, or handling issues after installation, get an alignment right away rather than waiting
• If you are also installing a lift kit or leveling kit, get the alignment done after all suspension modifications are complete

What type of alignment do I need?

Most vehicles will benefit from a four wheel alignment after installing new wheels and tires, especially if suspension modifications were made. A four wheel alignment checks and adjusts the camber, toe, and caster settings on all four wheels to make sure everything is properly dialed in.

Still have questions about alignment?

Contact us with details about your new wheel and tire setup and our team will be happy to advise on whether an alignment is recommended for your specific installation!