Do new tires require an alignment?

[Johann]

I have a new set of Yokohama's that I want the Mazda dealership to install.
While scheduling the appt. the service mgr. said I should get an alignment as well ($90).
It's a 2008 model with 28k mile. The original Turanza's actually held up fairly well with no abnormal thread wear that I can detect.
I am a little suspicious because the service mgr. hasn't even seen the vehicle yet.
Would you get the alignment?

 

[rotorheader]

I personally see no need to get an alignment. You've looked at your tires, and they're not indicating any needs.

Get your new tires on and enjoy

 

[BlackCherry06]

Some people (like your service guy) believe than an alignment is the best way to get the most from your new tires. True enough...if your car is out of alignment.

If you're not seeing any excessive inner / outer treadblock wear, no cupping, etc. it's likely that you're fine. Most any kind of alignment problem will wear tires in some strange way. If your tires look good and your car doesn't consistenly pull in one direction at highway speeds, just put your tires on and enjoy them.

 

[erhayes]

I never get an alignment when new tires are installed UNLESS there is unusually tire wear or the car steers poorly.

 

[BT Automotive]

If the car drives fine with the new tires and the old tires wore evenly then you should be all set, However if it pulls to either side then get the alignment done.

 

[offset_98]

With funny looking wear, I'd get an alignment. Otherwise, no.

 

[GTRay7]

Have them check it for free - any alignment shop will do this. Ask for the printout and decide for yourself based on the data. Once you establish a wear pattern into your tires it will likely never go away even after setting the alignment.

My advice is to find the closest shop to you that offers a lifetime warranty or other long term policy for their alignment service. Most major tire centers will offer this type of service and it is worth every penny. Proper alignment, rotation and inflation pressures are critical to tire life.

Ray