Two-wheel or four-wheel
A front-end alignment adjusts the front wheels only. A four-wheel alignment squares all four to the vehicle centerline and is what most modern cars with independent rear suspension need.
The four-wheel version costs more because it is more work. On a vehicle that requires it, the two-wheel version is not a cheaper alternative — it is an incomplete job.
Worn parts have to come first
Alignment sets angles. If a tie rod end or ball joint is worn, those angles move as you drive and the alignment will not hold.
A shop that finds worn steering or suspension parts should tell you before aligning, not after. Aligning a car with a worn tie rod means charging for work that will not last, and any honest shop will say so up front.
What it saves you
A car out of alignment scrubs tread off the tires every mile. A set of tires ruined early costs far more than the alignment that would have prevented it.
The roads around Capitol Heights and the Beltway are hard on alignment — potholes and rough pavement knock it out, and the first sign is usually uneven wear on one edge of a front tire.
- Pulling to one side on a flat road
- Steering wheel off-center when driving straight
- Wear on only the inner or outer edge of a tire
- A new set of tires — always align when fitting them
Need This Fixed?
YBE handles this at the Capitol Heights shop, seven days a week. Read about Wheel Alignment, or call and describe what your car is doing.