Your tyres are wearing unevenly, your steering feels off, and you’re left wondering: how much does a car wheel alignment cost, and is it really worth it?
The truth is, skipping a wheel alignment costs you more in the long run. Tyres wear out faster, fuel economy drops, and your suspension suffers.
This guide explains alignment costs, what influences them, and why you shouldn’t delay.
What Is a Car Wheel Alignment?
A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your tyres so they’re parallel and meet the road correctly.
When alignment is out, your car may drift, your steering wheel might not sit straight, and your tyres wear unevenly.
How Much Does a Car Wheel Alignment Cost on Average?
In Australia, a standard wheel alignment usually costs between $50 and $120.
If you need a four-wheel alignment or additional suspension adjustments, costs can climb to $150 or more.
Factors That Influence Alignment Costs
Not all alignments are priced the same. The cost depends on:
- Type of alignment: Two-wheel vs. four-wheel alignment.
- Vehicle make and model: European or luxury cars often require specialised equipment.
- Condition of suspension: Worn components may need replacement.
- Workshop location: Prices vary between cities and suburbs.
Understanding these factors helps you budget realistically.
Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
Wondering whether it’s time to book an alignment? Look out for these warning signs:
- Car pulls to one side when driving straight.
- Steering wheel isn’t centred.
- Tyres wearing unevenly or faster than expected.
- Vibrations in the steering wheel.
If you notice any of these, don’t delay; it’s cheaper to fix alignment now than replace tyres later.
Two-Wheel vs. Four-Wheel Alignment Costs
A two-wheel alignment adjusts the front tyres only, and typically costs less.
A four-wheel alignment checks and adjusts all wheels, often required for modern cars with independent suspension. While more expensive, it ensures complete precision.
Why Is Wheel Alignment Important?
Wheel alignment isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety.
Misaligned wheels increase stopping distances, reduce grip in wet conditions, and strain your suspension system. Investing in alignment keeps your car safe and efficient.
How Often Should You Get an Alignment?
Most experts recommend alignment every 10,000 kilometres or once a year.
However, hitting potholes, kerbs, or rough roads may require more frequent checks.
How Long Does a Wheel Alignment Take?
On average, a standard alignment takes 30 to 60 minutes.
If additional suspension work is required, it may take longer.
How Much Does a Car Wheel Alignment Cost Compared to Tyre Replacement?
Skipping alignment to save $100 might seem tempting, but replacing tyres costs far more.
A new set of tyres can cost $500 to $1,000, while alignment helps them last longer and wear evenly.
Additional Services That May Affect Price
When you ask, how much does a car wheel alignment cost, keep in mind extra services that might be added:
- Suspension inspection: Ensures no hidden damage.
- Tyre balancing: Prevents vibrations and uneven wear.
- Rotation: Moves tyres to different positions for even wear.
These services may increase the bill but improve overall performance.
DIY vs. Professional Alignment
While DIY guides exist, wheel alignment requires specialised equipment.
A professional workshop ensures precision measurements, which you can’t achieve at home.
What to Expect at the Workshop
When you book an alignment, mechanics will:
- Inspect tyres and suspension.
- Use alignment machines to measure angles.
- Adjust camber, caster, and toe angles to manufacturer specifications.
- Test drive the vehicle to confirm accuracy.
This detailed process ensures your car drives straight and safely.
Conclusion
So, how much does a car wheel alignment cost? While the average is $50–$120, the true cost of skipping it is far higher in tyre wear, fuel loss, and safety risks.
At Car One, we provide accurate, affordable alignments in Brisbane using advanced technology to keep your car safe and efficient.
Call us today on (07) 3607 0215 to book your wheel alignment with us, Brisbane’s trusted automotive specialists.
FAQs
1. How much does a car wheel alignment cost in Australia?
On average, it costs between $50 and $120 for a standard alignment, and up to $150+ for four-wheel adjustments.
2. How often should I get my wheels aligned?
Every 10,000 kilometres or once a year, unless you hit potholes or kerbs.
3. Can bad alignment damage my tyres?
Yes, poor alignment causes uneven wear, leading to early tyre replacement.
4. How long does a wheel alignment take?
Usually 30–60 minutes, depending on your car and workshop schedule.
5. Is wheel alignment the same as tyre balancing?
No, alignment adjusts angles of tyres, while balancing ensures even weight distribution.
