In this guide, we will break down how often you should get a wheel alignment, why it matters, and what signs to watch for between services.
Whether you drive a compact car, an SUV, or a pickup truck, you will find practical advice tailored to your vehicle type and driving habits.
What Is a Wheel Alignment and Why Does It Matter?
Before we dive into the “when,” let’s quickly cover the “what.” A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your car’s wheels so they are perfectly set to the manufacturer’s specifications.
This ensures your tires meet the road at the right angle, your steering stays centered, and your car drives straight without pulling to one side.
Proper alignment matters because it:
- Promotes even tire wear, which extends the lifespan of your tires
- Improves handling and steering responsiveness
- Boosts fuel efficiency by reducing rolling resistance
- Enhances safety by keeping your car stable on the road
Skipping alignment checks can lead to tires wearing out 20 to 30 percent faster, steering that feels sloppy or drifts, and gas mileage that takes an unnecessary hit.
General Mileage-Based Alignment Schedule
So, how often should you get a wheel alignment?
For most vehicles, experts recommend having your alignment checked every 12,000 miles or about once a year. This is a solid baseline for average drivers and is in line with recommendations from organizations like AAA.
However, some car owners may need to schedule alignment checks more frequently, depending on the vehicle type, how and where they drive, and the conditions they encounter on the road.
Condition-Based Alignment: More Than Just Mileage
While mileage is a useful guideline, your alignment schedule should also account for real-world conditions. Certain events or changes in your car’s performance are clear signs it is time to schedule an alignment—even if you have not hit the 12,000-mile mark yet.
Here are key moments when you should have your alignment checked:
- After installing new tires or wheels: Ford recommends checking alignment when you install a new set of tires. This ensures your investment in fresh rubber pays off with even wear and maximum life.
- After hitting a pothole or curb: Even a single impact can knock your alignment out of place. If you have recently run over a deep pothole, hit a curb, or driven over rough terrain, it is smart to book an alignment check.
- After suspension or steering repairs: Major repairs on your front end, including struts, control arms, or tie rods, should always end with an alignment.
- When you notice handling changes: If your car suddenly pulls to one side, the steering wheel is off-center, or the vehicle feels unstable in turns, alignment is likely part of the problem.
- At least once a year: Even if everything feels fine, an annual check ensures your alignment stays on point and catches small problems early.
Vehicle-Specific Alignment Needs
Different types of vehicles have slightly different alignment needs. Here is what you need to know:
Sedans and small cars
Most passenger vehicles and crossovers follow the standard 12,000-mile or annual schedule. They usually get a four-wheel alignment, as all four corners of the suspension are adjustable.
SUVs and light trucks
These heavier vehicles often handle more stress, especially if used for towing or off-roading. For SUVs and trucks that regularly carry heavy loads or go off-pavement, consider an alignment every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year.
Performance cars and off-road vehicles
Lowered, lifted, or performance-tuned vehicles tend to lose alignment faster. If you drive a sports car with a lowered suspension or an off-road truck with a lift kit, you may need checks after each major modification or off-road adventure.
How Driving Conditions Affect Alignment Frequency
Where and how you drive plays a huge role in how often you should check your alignment:
- City driving: Stop-and-go traffic, potholes, curbs, and tight parking spots can all throw off alignment. City drivers should stick to the low end of the mileage range (every 10,000 to 12,000 miles) and monitor their cars closely.
- Highway driving: If most of your miles are on smooth highways, your alignment will likely hold up longer. You can probably stretch to the full 12,000 miles or even 15,000 miles between checks, provided you stay vigilant for warning signs.
- Off-road or construction zone driving: Rough trails and job sites are brutal on alignment. Check after every season of heavy use or after any particularly punishing trip.
- Towing and hauling: Extra weight changes suspension dynamics, so after a busy towing season or long-distance hauling, an alignment check is wise.
Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
Even if you keep track of mileage, your car often sends clues that something is off. Here are the most common symptoms of misalignment:
- Pulling to one side: If your car drifts left or right when driving on a straight, flat road, that is a strong indicator.
- Uneven tire wear: Check your tires regularly. Are the inner or outer edges wearing faster? Do front and rear tires have different tread depths? Misalignment often shows up in your tread before you feel it at the wheel.
- Off-center steering wheel: If your steering wheel is tilted even when driving straight, alignment is likely the issue.
- Steering wheel vibration: Shaking or vibrating at speed may also point to alignment or balance issues.
- Squealing tires during turns: Listen for unusual sounds during cornering. Squealing can mean tires are not sitting flat on the road.
Addressing these issues promptly can save you from buying new tires earlier than planned.
Integrating Alignment Into Your Maintenance Routine
The easiest way to stay on top of your alignment is to combine it with other routine services:
- At tire rotations or replacements: Many shops recommend checking alignment every other oil change or at tire rotations. This keeps everything on track without adding an extra visit to the shop.
- During seasonal maintenance: Spring and fall are perfect times to check alignment, especially after harsh winters or hot summers.
- After repairs or big impacts: Anytime your car has front-end repairs or hits a big pothole, add alignment to your to-do list.
For added peace of mind, use a simple reminder system: set a calendar alert, keep a log in your glove box, or ask your shop to send service reminders.
The Payoff: Safer Driving and Long-Term Savings
Getting regular wheel alignments is about more than just smooth driving—it is about protecting your investment. Aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency.
Even tire wear extends the life of your tires, saving you hundreds of dollars over time. And precise handling means you and your passengers stay safer, especially in emergency maneuvers or bad weather.
As the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains in its tire safety guide, keeping up with basic tire maintenance, including alignment, helps maximize performance and safety on the road.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how often to align your wheels comes down to a mix of mileage, vehicle type, and driving conditions. For most drivers, aiming for a check every 12,000 miles or once a year is a smart baseline.
But stay flexible—if you hit a big pothole, install new tires, or notice your car pulling to one side, get it checked right away.
A smooth, safe, and efficient ride starts with four properly aligned wheels. Make alignment part of your regular maintenance routine, and you will not only enjoy better handling and fuel economy but also extend the life of your tires.
For more details on tire care and alignment tips, you can also visit Bridgestone’s expert guide at bridgestonetire.com.