You should generally get your vehicle's wheel alignment checked and adjusted at least once or twice a year as part of routine maintenance. This frequency helps prevent uneven tire wear, improves gas mileage, and maintains good drivability
. More specifically:
- Many experts recommend an alignment every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year
- Some sources suggest every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, especially for average passenger cars and trucks
- Others recommend every two years or about every 30,000 miles, depending on driving habits and road conditions
- If you drive frequently on rough roads, potholes, or hit curbs, you may need alignments more often
Additionally, you should get an alignment:
- Whenever you buy new tires to extend their life
- After any significant impact such as hitting a pothole or curb
- If you notice signs like uneven tire wear, your vehicle pulling to one side, or an off-center steering wheel
In summary, a good rule of thumb is to check alignment annually or every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, but adjust based on your driving conditions and vehicle signs. Regular alignment helps maintain safety and prolongs tire life.
