Wheel Alignment Cost

• A two-wheel alignment (such as a front-end alignment) at a car repair or tire shop typically costs $20 -$100, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the location of the shop and the warranty, which can vary from six months and 6,000 miles (whichever comes first) to 1-5 years with unlimited mileage (longer warranties may be transferable if the vehicle is sold). CostHelper readers report paying $40 -$95 for a two-wheel alignment, at an average cost of $65.
• A four-wheel alignment at a car repair or tire shop also typically costs $20 -$100, depending on vehicle make and model, location and warranty. CostHelper readers report paying $30 -$80 for this service, at an average cost of $63.
• To get a proper alignment, some European and high-end Asian vehicles require special tools and computer equipment that are only available at car dealerships, where wheel alignments can cost $75 -$400 or more, depending on location, make and model, and length of warranty. CostHelper readers report paying $80 -$350 for a wheel alignment at dealership, at an average cost of $180.

• Professional wheel alignment typically takes less than an hour. The vehicle will be placed on a platform so the wheels can spin while a computer calculates their orientation, which is then compared to the manufacturer's specifications for that year, make and model of vehicle. If the alignment is off, adjustments are made and the vehicle is tested again.
• Some tire centers recommend having the wheels aligned annually. However, many experts say an average pothole isn't enough to knock a vehicle out of alignment, and that alignment should only be done if the car starts to pull or drift to one side when steering, or if there is uneven tread wear on the tires. National syndicated radio host and Washington Post Columnist Pat Goss told Road and Travel magazine that alignment shouldn't be commonplace, because "you actually have to bend steel to affect alignment."

• If needed, wheel balancing (at an average cost of $10 -$12 per tire) may be done at the same time as alignment.

• Some repair shops offer discounts for AAA members.
• Auto repair shops, tire stores and gas stations often offer wheel alignment discount coupons for new customers. For example, Goodyear and Pep Boys have a $10 off coupon online.
• A do-it-yourself wheel alignment isn't necessarily difficult, but it is precise work. Car and Driver magazine provides do-it-yourself instructions that require specialized tools such as a digital camber gauge ($100 -$700 or more) or a tow bar ($30 -$250). However, Hot Rod magazine describes a home wheel alignment can be done with basic tools, string and a magnetic caster/camber gauge ($35 -$75).

• Wheel alignments are done at most car dealerships; at tire dealers like Big O Tires, Firestone or Goodyear; and at repair shops/departments like Pep Boys or Sears.
• The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence provides a searchable directory of certified shops.
• Prices vary, so call several shops for quotes. Know the year, make and model of the vehicle when calling. Some shops will not work on custom vehicles, so be sure to mention if there is anything custom or unique that could affect the alignment process.
• Consumer Reports lists tips for finding a good mechanic.

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