Do I Need a Wheel Alignment After Suspension Work?
If you’ve recently had suspension repairs or upgrades done on your vehicle, you might be wondering — do I need a wheel alignment afterwards? The short answer is yes, in most cases you do. Here’s why alignment is such an important step after suspension work.
Why Wheel Alignment Matters
Your vehicle’s wheel alignment ensures that all four wheels are pointing in the correct direction and at the right angles to each other and the road. Proper alignment affects:
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Steering response
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Tyre wear
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Fuel efficiency
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Overall driving safety
Even minor changes in your suspension system can throw off your alignment, leading to uneven tyre wear, pulling to one side, or poor handling.
Suspension Work That Affects Alignment
Any repair or replacement that alters your vehicle’s ride height or geometry can affect the alignment. Common examples include:
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Replacing shocks or struts
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Installing new control arms, ball joints, or tie rods
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Upgrading to a lift or lowering kit
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Bushing replacements
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Changing springs or coilovers
Even if the work seems small, like replacing a single component, it can shift the suspension angles enough to require a fresh alignment.
What Happens If You Skip the Alignment?
Skipping a wheel alignment after suspension work might save a few dollars upfront, but it can cost you more down the track. Without proper alignment, you may notice:
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Uneven or rapid tyre wear
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Pulling or drifting while driving straight
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Steering wheel off-centre
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Reduced handling stability
Over time, this can wear out tyres prematurely and put extra stress on other suspension components.
When to Book the Alignment
The best time to do a wheel alignment is immediately after the suspension job is completed. This ensures that all components are properly aligned before the tyres start wearing unevenly. Most workshops can check and adjust alignment as part of the final step in your suspension repair or upgrade.
Final Thoughts
After any kind of suspension work — whether it’s a repair, replacement, or performance upgrade — a wheel alignment is essential. It ensures your vehicle handles correctly, your tyres last longer, and your ride remains smooth and safe.
If you’ve just had suspension work done and haven’t had your alignment checked yet, it’s worth booking one in as soon as possible.
Need help after a suspension repair?
Our team can inspect your alignment and ensure your vehicle is tracking straight and true. Contact us today to book a wheel alignment check.