i just changed my struts yesterday, getting new tires tomorrow, now do i get a 2 or 4 wheel alignment? i read that our cars only need the front two wheels aligned, right? if so, whoever does do the alignment will align them with the back wheels, right? just wanna make sure, thanks.

 

If I remember correctly, you can't do an alignment on the rear because of the beam. I've never gotten an alignment on the rear because of this.

 

I got a lifetime alignment contract at Firestone. They only see 4-wheel lifetime alignments, so I got that. Cost was $129, which is not bad considering a normal 2-wheel alignment is around $40-50.

But yes, the Maxima only needs two wheel alignment since the rears are nonadjustable. With lowered suspension, your alignment will deviate from spec more quickly, so I recommend the lifetime contract. I get mine done once every 6 months and have gotten my money's worth already (so far, I've had four alignments done).

 

it's only a 2 wheel alignment

 

ok 2 wheel alignment, thats what i thought.. they will still align the front wheels with the rear wheels right? just wanna make sure, thanks

 

The rear wheels cannot be adjusted on many cars. HOWEVER, you still do a 4 wheel alignment and check against the factory specs. If something is out, you have a bent component that needs replacing. Some cars can be shimmed, even though the alignment is "non-adjustable". That is, there's no bolts that change the alignement, but some properly inserted shims can correct an issue.

Bob

 

From Haynes:

A wheel alignment refers to the adjustments made to the wheels so they are in proper angular relationship to the suspension and the ground. Wheels that are out of proper alignment not only affect vehicle control, but also increase tire wear. The front end angles normally measured are camber, caster and toe-in. Camber and caster are preset at the factory on the vehicle covered by this manual; toe-in is the only adjustable angle on these vehicles. The rear toe-in can also be adjusted, but the camber and caster cannot (however, camber and caster are usually measured to check for bent or worn suspension parts).