Weekend before last I replaced all 4 struts on the car with KYB Excel-G's, removing the Eibach Pro Kit that was on the car, and re-installing the OEM springs. I was waiting to install 4 new Fuzion ZR-something tires until I got it aligned the following weekend. So new tires, new struts, got the car aligned... drove great that same weekend... now a week later I notice that the car pulls slightly to the left, there is now a vibration in the steering/car, and my steering wheel shakes when I brake...

Previously the car rode badly with blown struts and the Eibach's... and the wheel did vibrate before... but I always attributed it to the REALLY worn tires on the car. But it NEVER shook when I would brake, this is a completely new thing. When I looked at the alignment sheet, it was hardly out of alignment. Also, it feels like there is play in the steering... at highway speeds I can move the wheel side to side a bit and the car barely moves. Ball joints?

I'm really almost ready to cut my losses with this thing... I know it's an older car, but it's getting to the point where it would be less stressful and cheaper just to have another car payment... So what do I need to replace now? Tie rods? Stabalizer links? LCA's?...

 

Take it back to the alignment shop...should have a 6mo warranty at least, right?

What part of the country are you in?

 

Take it back to the shop and get it re-checked. They might have neglected to tighten something, like maybe the tie rod ends.

 

To the previous poster, I'm in Sacramento, CA. It's a California car FWIW.

Yeah that seems to be the prudent thing to do... it's a VERY reputable shop, so hopefully it's something simple. I'd rather it be something they messed up on instead of something further that I need to replace.

 

Warranty on an alignment .... the moment you drive it off the parking lot and you are on your own... no company will ever give you a warranty on an alinement

 

This^, as long as you don't hit a pothole or speed bump at 40+mph, you shouldn't need an alignment, unless you get some new tires or change up any suspension parts. I get an alignment once a year.

 

i have this problem..its the tie rods correct me if im wrong but it is the tie rods when the car is lifted and there is play from moving the wheel side to side?

 

To add to the first paragraph, you might have a sticky caliper or blocked brake line.

 

Im not sure what sort of hack places you go to, but reputable shops have a warranty on alignment, for at least 30 days usually. Some even charge you a bit more and give you LIFETIME alignments. Or Unlimited alignments for X years...

 

Agreed. There is almost ALWAYS some sort of warranty because it's pretty common for shops to mess up an alignment it seems...

 

Must be an Ohio thing then...I feel for you son.

I have a 6mo warranty through NTB, cost $50 and I can take it in anytime before 6mos, no questions asked. Firestone also offers lifetime alignments for a fee, not sure on cost.