Did I Really Need an Alignment (or did I get taken advantage of) (insurance, tires)

[Riley14]

Just got back from getting a 4 wheel alignment. Looked at the report and the only thing that was out of range was the "steer ahead" (which is supposed to be -.05 to .05) was .06. That was the only "red" item. The dealer said it was legit. Thoughts?

[NewHavensFinest]

You really only need an alignment when you have your suspension parts replaced such as bushings, shocks, and tie rods. Or if you decide you want your car lower to the ground.

If you have ran into any curbs and dinged a wheel up pretty good its a good idea to have it checked out.

Was the car veering in one direction when you were driving it or did it stay straight when you let go of the wheel.

Even if you only replace front suspension parts, the only true way to get an alignment is the 4 wheel alignment....well thats how it is with my car.

Were your tires wearing more on one side of them? what car is it?

[caspian65]

Looks like you didn't need an alignment, but you wouldn't have known that unless they put it on the alignment machine. It's not like you paid them to do nothing. Could very well have saved you premature wear on some tires if it actually was out by a lot. Cars out of alignment can be unsafe to drive also, especially if they aren't tracking straight and pulling to one side.

[Hemlock140]

There is no way to know if your alignment is correct without paying to have it checked. Whether it's off a little or a lot, unless it needs part replacement the cost is the same.
If you have never hit a pothole or curb, it tracks straight at high speeds, and your tire wear is nice an even on all 4 tires after regular rotation, then it probably doesn't need it. I always like to do it after getting new tires just to be safe, a little insurance after spending $600-700.