Wheel Alignment

Potholes are a fact of life on Canadian roads, and they are hard on your alignment. A correct alignment protects your tires and keeps the car driving straight.

Last updated: October 28, 2026

What is wheel alignment?

An alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels, known as camber, caster and toe, to the manufacturer’s specifications. When those angles are off, tires wear unevenly and the car may pull to one side. Alignment is different from balancing, which corrects weight distribution on each wheel to stop vibration.

Many vehicles need a four-wheel alignment because the rear wheels are adjustable. Worn suspension or steering parts must be replaced before an alignment can hold.

Signs you need it

• The vehicle pulls left or right on a straight road.
• The steering wheel is off-centre when driving straight.
• Uneven tire wear, such as the inside edge wearing faster.
• You hit a large pothole or curb.
• You installed new tires or suspension or steering parts.

How much does it cost in Canada?

Ranges reflect typical Canadian tire-shop and dealer pricing. Prices are estimates and vary by vehicle, city, shop and parts quality; always get a written quote.

How to choose a shop

Choose a shop with a modern alignment machine that prints a before-and-after report. Ask the technician to check suspension and steering components first; replacing a worn tie-rod end later will undo the alignment.

Questions to ask before you book

• Is this a two-wheel or four-wheel alignment?
• Will I get a before-and-after printout?
• Did you find worn suspension or steering parts?
• Is a recheck included if the car still pulls?
• Do you offer an alignment package?

Your rights in Ontario and Quebec. In Ontario, a repair shop must give you a written estimate before doing work unless you waive it in writing, cannot charge more than 10% above the estimate without your approval, and repairs are generally warrantied for 90 days or 5,000 km on parts and labour. In Quebec, a written estimate is also mandatory unless you waive it in writing, and repairs carry a legal warranty of 3 months or 5,000 km. See the Office de la protection du consommateur. Other provinces have consumer protection laws too; keep every estimate and invoice.

Alignment, balancing and rotation: the difference

Alignment adjusts wheel angles so the tires point straight and sit flat on the road. Balancing adds small weights to each wheel so it spins without vibration. Rotation moves tires between positions so they wear evenly. All three extend tire life, and Canadian drivers often combine them with the spring and fall changeover. Ignoring a misalignment can wear out a new set of tires in a single season, which costs far more than the alignment itself.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get an alignment?

Check it at least once a year, after hitting a big pothole, and whenever you buy new tires. Many drivers have it checked at the spring tire changeover.

Can a pothole damage alignment?

Yes. A hard hit can bend suspension parts or knock the wheels out of alignment. In some cities you can file a claim for pothole damage, but rules and deadlines vary.

Does alignment fix vibration?

Usually not. Vibration at speed is more often caused by unbalanced wheels, a bent rim or worn parts.