Firestone Lifetime Alignment: Is It Worth It? (2024)

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, one aspect that often goes unnoticed but is nonetheless crucial is wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels can not only compromise your vehicle’s performance but also its safety.

This article will delve into the specifics of wheel alignment, particularly focusing on the service offered by Firestone, a renowned brand in the automotive industry. We’ll look at the associated costs and discuss when an alignment is necessary for your vehicle.

Read on to gain a deeper understanding of wheel alignment and make a well-informed decision for your vehicle’s optimal maintenance.

Firestone Wheel Alignment Price

Firestone, a respected name in auto care, provides an array of services, including wheel alignment. The cost of a wheel alignment at Firestone varies depending on the type of alignment, specific vehicle model, and location.

The price range was typically between $75 to $200. Standard wheel alignment (both front and rear) usually costs more than just aligning the front wheels. You’re advised to check with your local Firestone service center for the most accurate and current pricing.

What is an Alignment and When Do I Need One?

An alignment is a process that adjusts your vehicle’s suspension system, which in turn influences the angle at which your tires make contact with the road. It’s not about adjusting the tires or wheels themselves, but about fine-tuning the angles of the tires which affects how they connect with the road.

There are several signs that your vehicle may need an alignment. If your car seems to be drifting to one side or if your steering wheel vibrates or isn’t centered when you’re driving straight, these could be signs that you need a wheel alignment. Additionally, uneven tire wear is a common sign of misalignment.

Scheduling a regular wheel alignment can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. It not only prolongs the life of your tires, ensuring you don’t need to replace them as often, but it can also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Keep in mind that wheel alignment isn’t typically included in regular vehicle maintenance, so it’s something you may need to request. Regular wheel alignments can keep your car performing optimally and can help you avoid more costly repairs down the road.

Remember, it’s always best to consult with a professional if you’re unsure whether your vehicle needs a wheel alignment. Firestone provides a comprehensive and professional wheel alignment service that you can trust to ensure your vehicle performs at its best.

Do I Need Alignment with New Tires?

Yes, it’s often recommended to get a wheel alignment when you get new tires. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, which could shorten the lifespan of your new tires. Even a small misalignment can result in significant wear over time. By having the wheels aligned when you get new tires, you can ensure that your tires wear evenly and last as long as possible.

How Long Does a Wheel Alignment Take?

The process of wheel alignment doesn’t usually take long. On average, it takes about an hour for a qualified mechanic to complete a wheel alignment. However, this can vary depending on the type of vehicle and any additional issues the mechanic may identify. Also, keep in mind that this does not account for any waiting time at the shop.

How Often Should You Get an Alignment?

The frequency of wheel alignments can depend on various factors like your vehicle type, how often you drive, and the conditions of the roads you typically travel on. However, as a general rule of thumb, many experts recommend getting your wheels aligned at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. If you drive on rough roads often or have noticed signs of misalignment, you may need to get your wheels aligned more frequently.

How Do I Know if My Car Needs an Alignment?

Several signs could indicate that your car needs a wheel alignment. Here are some of the most common:

Uneven tire wear

If you notice that your tires are wearing down unevenly, this could be a sign that your wheels are misaligned. For example, if the tires are worn more on one side than the other.

Car pulling to one side

If your car seems to drift to the left or right when you’re driving straight, this could be a sign of misalignment. You might feel like you’re constantly having to steer your car to keep it centered in the lane.

Off-center steering wheel

If your steering wheel is off-center when you’re driving straight, this could be a sign of misalignment. Your steering wheel should typically be centered and level when you’re driving straight.

Vibration while driving

If your steering wheel or car vibrates when you’re driving, this could be another sign that your wheels are misaligned.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to get your vehicle checked out by a professional. Misalignment can lead to other issues over time, including decreased fuel efficiency and damage to your vehicle’s suspension system.

FAQ

1.What is the primary purpose of getting a wheel alignment?

The main purpose of a wheel alignment is to adjust the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. This ensures that your tires are making optimal contact with the road, leading to more precise steering, better handling, improved tire life, and decreased wear on other parts of your vehicle.

Misaligned wheels can lead to various issues including uneven tire wear, poor handling, a steering wheel that isn’t centered, and reduced fuel efficiency.

2.How does wheel alignment influence fuel efficiency?

Wheel alignment has a significant impact on fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels make your vehicle work harder, as it’s not moving in a straight line. This means your car uses more energy, burning more fuel in the process.

Properly aligned wheels, on the other hand, reduce resistance, which improves your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. So, regular wheel alignments could help you save money on fuel costs over time.

3.Why is it recommended to get a wheel alignment when installing new tires?

When you get new tires, it’s crucial to give them the best chance of longevity, and that’s where a wheel alignment comes in. If your wheels are misaligned, your brand new tires could wear unevenly, which means they may need to be replaced sooner than expected. By getting a wheel alignment, you’re ensuring that your new tires wear evenly and have a longer life span, providing you with better value for your investment.

4.How does the condition of the road affect the need for wheel alignments?

The condition of the roads you frequently travel on can significantly impact the alignment of your wheels. If you regularly drive on rough, potholed, or uneven roads, your vehicle’s alignment can be thrown off more quickly.

This is due to the impact and vibration caused by the uneven surfaces, which can shift your vehicle’s suspension system, leading to misaligned wheels. Therefore, if you’re often driving on rough roads, you may need to have your wheels aligned more frequently.

5.Are there any dangers associated with not aligning wheels when necessary?

Yes, there are several risks associated with not getting your wheels aligned when needed. Firstly, misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear, which may result in your tires needing to be replaced earlier than expected, resulting in unnecessary costs.

Secondly, misalignment can also make the car harder to steer and can cause it to pull to one side, potentially leading to dangerous situations on the road. Lastly, misalignment can put extra strain on other vehicle components, leading to premature wear and potential failures.

6.What makes Firestone a reliable option for wheel alignment services?

Firestone is a trusted name in the auto industry, known for providing high-quality, reliable services. Their technicians are trained and equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to perform precise wheel alignments.

They understand the importance of accurate wheel alignment and adhere to the manufacturer’s specifications for each particular vehicle. Their services often come with warranties, ensuring you can trust the quality of the work performed.

7.Is wheel alignment something that can be done as a DIY project, or should it be left to professionals?

Wheel alignment requires specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure it’s done correctly. While there are DIY methods available, they often can’t match the precision of a professional alignment performed with advanced machinery.

Furthermore, the alignment process involves adjusting various components of your vehicle’s suspension system, which can be complex and risky for those who aren’t trained. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to leave wheel alignments to the professionals to ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance and safety.

Conclusion

Taking care of your vehicle involves more than just regular oil changes and brake checks. One often overlooked but essential aspect of car maintenance is ensuring your wheels are correctly aligned. From improving fuel efficiency to prolonging the lifespan of your tires, the benefits of wheel alignment are numerous.

While Firestone is known to provide reliable wheel alignment services, it’s recommended to check with your local service center for the most current prices. Remember, every vehicle and every driver is unique, and what works best for one may not necessarily be the best for another. Here’s to safe and smart driving!