Should You Be Charged for a Car Alignment Check?

When you take your car to an auto shop for an alignment check, you might wonder if you will be charged even if the alignment is not off. This article explores the charges associated with car alignment checks and provides insights into the practices of various auto shops.

The Nature of Car Alignment Checks

Car alignment, or wheel alignment, is crucial for ensuring that your vehicle performs optimally and can help extend the life of your tires. When you go to an auto shop for an alignment check, the technician will examine the angles of your wheels, such as the camber, caster, and toe. These angles affect how your car handles and how much strain is placed on your suspension and tires.

Charges for Alignment Checks

It's often unclear whether an auto shop will charge you for a car alignment check, even if the alignment is not off. One common practice is that many shops charge a diagnostic fee for checking the alignment regardless of any adjustments needed. This fee covers the time and equipment required to assess your vehicle.

However, some shops may waive this diagnostic fee if you proceed to have any necessary work done. It's always wise to inquire about their pricing structure and any potential fees when making your appointment. Here are a few things to consider:

Ask the shop about their diagnostic fee and alignment check pricing. Understand what is included in the diagnostic fee. Be aware that even a negative result might still incur a fee.

Prevalence of Free Alignment Checks in the UK

In the UK, some tire shops offer free alignment checks, which might seem like a great deal. However, these shops often use this tactic to make assumptions that your alignment is off, which isn't always the case. Some unscrupulous shops might tell you that your alignment is out simply to make you pay for additional work.

It is important to be wary of these tactics and to ask for a clear and transparent explanation of the fee structure before agreeing to any services.

Common Practices and Pricing

The time it takes to perform an alignment check usually involves more steps than just making adjustments. It includes pulling your car into the shop, setting it up, operating the alignment machine, and analyzing the results. The total time and the expensive equipment used make it common for the check to be charged as a service.

Typically, the invoice will show a specific price for the alignment check, with a small print note mentioning that adjustments are not necessary if no corrections are needed. This note is important because it clarifies that the check is still a service provided, and a fee is appropriate.

Examples of Practices

Some shop examples can provide further clarity:

Big O Tire Store: I recently called the Big O tire store near my house and confirmed that their alignment checks are free, regardless of whether adjustments are needed. Goodyear Stores: I have had free alignment checks at Goodyear stores as well, though specific policies might vary.

While free alignment checks might be common, it's still a good idea to call the shop and ask about their policy before making an appointment. Transparency about the fee structure can help prevent any misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Whether you should be charged for a car alignment check ultimately depends on the shop's policies. While it might seem unfair to be charged for a service that finds no issues, the process still involves time and resources. By being informed and asking questions, you can make informed decisions about your car maintenance and avoid any unpleasant surprises.