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How much does an alignment cost?

How Much Does an Alignment Cost?
A Clackamas Driver’s Guide to Alignment, Value, and Long-Term Vehicle Protection

If your steering wheel feels off-center, your car drifts while driving, or your tires show signs of uneven wear, it’s likely time for a wheel alignment. The question most drivers ask first is: “How much does it cost?”

But here at Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales, we believe a better question is:
What does an alignment actually save you in the long run?

Because alignment isn’t just about price—it’s about preventing bigger, more expensive problems before they start. In this article, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of an alignment, what’s included in a quality service, and why it pays to get it done right.

 


 

What Is a Wheel Alignment?

A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your vehicle’s suspension system so your tires meet the road at the proper orientation—based on the manufacturer's exact specifications.

These angles include:

  • Toe – Direction your tires point in or out when viewed from above
     

  • Camber – Tilt of the tires inward or outward when viewed from the front
     

  • Caster – Angle of the steering axis that impacts cornering and stability
     

Proper alignment ensures:

  • Straight, stable driving
     

  • Even tire wear
     

  • Improved fuel economy
     

  • Better braking and handling
     

  • Longer-lasting suspension components
     

In short, alignment keeps your vehicle running smoother, safer, and more efficiently.

 


 

Why There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Answer to Alignment Cost

At Tim’s Automotive in Clackamas, we don’t give out flat rates for alignment over the phone—because no two vehicles (or conditions) are exactly the same.

We believe in providing service that’s honest, personalized, and precision-focused. That means evaluating the full picture before assigning a number. Here are the key variables that influence the cost of alignment:

 


 

1. Two-Wheel vs. Four-Wheel Alignment

  • Two-wheel alignment adjusts the front wheels only and is generally used for vehicles with solid rear axles.
     

  • Four-wheel alignment adjusts all four corners, ideal for modern cars, SUVs, crossovers, and vehicles with independent suspension.
     

A four-wheel alignment is more comprehensive and often the best option for full handling, fuel efficiency, and tire protection—but it also involves more time and labor.

 


 

2. Vehicle Type and Suspension Design

Certain vehicles simply require more advanced alignment procedures:

  • Luxury brands, sports cars, and European imports have tighter tolerances and may need specialty tools.
     

  • Lifted or lowered trucks require custom alignment specs, especially with aftermarket suspension systems.
     

  • Vehicles with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) may need sensor recalibration after alignment.
     

No matter what you drive—commuter, pickup, hybrid, or custom ride—we’ve got the tools and training to get it aligned correctly.

 


 

3. Suspension and Steering Condition

Before we perform any alignment, we do a full suspension and steering inspection. That’s because worn parts can make alignment impossible—or short-lived.

We check:

  • Tie rods
     

  • Ball joints
     

  • Control arms
     

  • Bushings
     

  • Struts and shocks
     

If we find anything that’s unsafe or ineffective, we’ll show you exactly what needs attention and why. You’ll never be sold something you don’t need—but we also won’t align a vehicle that can’t safely hold the adjustment.

 


 

4. Precision Equipment and Technology Used

At Tim’s Automotive, we use advanced computerized alignment systems that deliver:

  • Factory-grade precision and calibration
     

  • Real-time data on camber, caster, and toe
     

  • VIN-specific specs for exact OEM alignment
     

  • Before-and-after digital printouts
     

Cheap alignment services might use outdated tools or skip steps entirely. That kind of shortcut costs you more in the long run. We don’t believe in “close enough”—we believe in getting it right.

 


 

5. What’s Included in Our Alignment Service

You’re not just paying for the adjustment—you’re paying for the entire process, expertise, and peace of mind that comes with it.

Our comprehensive alignment service includes:

  • Full steering and suspension system inspection
     

  • Digital angle measurements using advanced equipment
     

  • Adjustments to camber, caster, and toe (if applicable)
     

  • Four-wheel or front-end alignment depending on your vehicle
     

  • Test drive verification
     

  • Detailed printout of before-and-after measurements
     

  • Honest feedback on any needed repairs or future concerns
     

We do it all—because a great alignment should leave no doubt.

 


 

Why Delaying an Alignment Can Cost You Big

Think an alignment can wait? Here’s what happens if you skip it:

  • Tire destruction: Misalignment causes uneven tread wear that can shred tires fast.
     

  • Wasted fuel: Increased rolling resistance means more trips to the pump.
     

  • Suspension wear: Parts like bushings and struts take extra abuse when angles are off.
     

  • Handling problems: Poor alignment affects cornering, emergency response, and highway safety.
     

For a relatively small investment, you can avoid big-ticket repairs and extend the life of your tires, fuel, and suspension.

 


 

Signs You Might Need an Alignment

Not sure if it’s time? Watch for these symptoms:

  • Steering wheel is off-center
     

  • Car pulls to the left or right while driving
     

  • Tires are wearing unevenly or rapidly
     

  • Vehicle feels unstable or wanders on the highway
     

  • You recently hit a pothole, curb, or road debris
     

  • You’ve had new tires or suspension parts installed
     

  • It’s been over a year or 12,000+ miles since your last alignment
     

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to get checked before bigger issues develop.

 


 

Why Drivers in Clackamas Trust Tim’s Automotive

We’ve been serving Clackamas with integrity, skill, and precision for years—and our reputation is built on doing it right the first time.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Experienced, ASE-certified technicians
     

  • Transparent, no-pressure recommendations
     

  • Cutting-edge alignment tools and diagnostics
     

  • Friendly, hometown service with high-performance results
     

  • Honest answers, expert care, and a commitment to your safety
     

We treat every alignment like your family is riding in the vehicle—because we know they are.

 


 

Book Your Alignment Today

Don’t let minor misalignment turn into a major problem. Whether your steering feels a little off or your tires are showing signs of wear, now’s the time to schedule your professional alignment.

📍 Tim’s Automotive Repair and Sales
15688 SE 135th Ave, Clackamas, OR 97015
📞 (503) 656-0600
🌐http://tims-automotive.com

Drive straighter. Drive safer. Drive smarter—with Tim’s.

For more information please watch the video

https://youtu.be/9QHVqDgyIyM