Wheel Alignment Costs: What to Expect

Wheel alignment is one of those vehicle services that usually gets neglected until you have an issue like uneven tyre wear or your car is pulling to one side. However, ensuring your car's wheels are in the correct alignment is important in terms of your tyres' safety, fuel economy and longevity.

One of the most asked questions from motorists is: How much does wheel alignment cost? In this article, we will explain what influences the cost of wheel alignment Birmingham, when you might need it, and how it compares with things like your MOT Birmingham.

What Is Wheel Alignment?

Before looking at costs, let's take a moment to help you understand what wheel alignment actually means. In brief, wheel alignment is the adjustment of your vehicle's suspension, the part that connects the vehicle to its wheels, by adjusting the angles of the wheels - camber, caster, and toe - to ensure they are pointing in the right direction and level with the road.

Having the wheels aligned properly will improve handling, prevent uneven tyre wear, and allow your car to go in a straight line without pulling off to one side.

 What Determines the Cost of Wheel Alignments?

There are a variety of things that will influence your final bill:

1. Type of Vehicle

If you are driving an SUV or 4x4, the cost of your alignment could be significantly higher than the average small hatchback or small car due to the added complexity of the suspension.

2. Type of Alignment

A front-end alignment (one done only on the front two wheels), will be less expensive than a four-wheel alignment (an alignment done using both axles).

3. Geographic Location

Warranty rates can also vary based on location. As a general rule of thumb, if you get an alignment in a major urban city, it is going to cost more than if you get it done in a small town or independent garage.

4. Condition of Suspension Components

If the alignment check discovers broken suspension parts (like tie rods or control arms) that need to be replaced before the alignment, when you go to pay for your alignment, it will cost more.

5. Technology Used

Some garages use modern 3D or laser alignment machines. if you go with one of these garages, the labour rate may be higher; however, your alignment will likely be more accurate and faster.

Do You Need Alignment After an MOT?

Although wheel alignment is not specifically assessed during your MOT (Ministry of Transport test) it is still very relevant to your car's safety and performance.

During an MOT Birmingham the examiner will look for conditions in relation to your tyres, steering and suspension - all of which can be affected by poor alignment. If your car fails its MOT due to uneven tyre wear, and you were not aware of this, then there is a good chance that alignment is the root cause. Therefore, it makes the most sense to have your wheel alignment checked before or after the MOT, particularly if you think you have a handling issue.

When Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?

You don't need to have an alignment every time you pull into a garage, but here are some indicators that you may need one:

Your car pulls to one side

Steering feels loose or unresponsive

Your steering wheel is off centre

Tyres are wearing unevenly or rapidly

You hit a pothole, curb, or were in a minor bump

You've had suspension parts changed and want to make sure the car is set up right

As a rough rule of thumb, checking your wheel alignment Birmingham once a year, or every 10,000 to 12,000 miles is a good safe bet.

Is Wheel Alignment Worth What It Costs?

Yes, it's worth it. Just because your car feels ok doesn't mean it isn't out of alignment and degrading life in the tyres and economy of fuel. A £50 alignment can save you hundreds of replacing tyres and prolong the life of expensive steering and suspension parts.

A vehicle that feels like it is tracking straight and steering correctly is safer to drive. We can rely a lot on our vehicles, and spending the time or money on an alignment with a professional is a small commitment to their performance for years to come.

Can you get an Alignment with other services?

Absolutely, and many garages will provide reduced rates for alignment when booked with:

Tyre replacement

Suspension repairs

Steering repairs

Pre-MOT inspection or the MOT test

Some are even happy to provide a free alignment check, and just charge if adjustments are needed.

Conclusion

Wheel alignment Birmingham is an important aspect of keeping your vehicle safe, efficient, and comfortable to drive. The price can range from £25 to £100, depending on which type of service you are looking for, but expect to pay around that level for a standard alignment service. Wheel alignment isn't a part of your MOT inspection directly, but alignment problems can cause eventual defects that result in a failed MOT inspection—tyre wear and steering defects.

Scheduling a check is a good idea if you’ve just noticed anything out of alignment or an MOT Birmingham is coming up soon. Consider it cheap insurance for your car.