3.3TT Front Strut Replacement - Do I need an wheel alignment?

[0zman99]

Hello, the dealership is currently replacing my front strut (it's leaking) under warranty. They said it may need an alignment that isn't covered under warranty.

So the question is, Do I need a wheel alignment when the front strut is replaced in the Stinger? The internet says it depends on the car.

 

[General_Vodka]

Drive it after and see if the car feels off in like acceleration or turning. If it's fine then your good. Just check about a week later for uneven tire wear in that side. If its fine on both sides of the tire then your good. If not then alignment appointment it is.

 

[Blue Bucket]

Hello, the dealership is currently replacing my front strut (it's leaking) under warranty. They said it may need an alignment that isn't covered under warranty.

So the question is, Do I need a wheel alignment when the front strut is replaced in the Stinger? The internet says it depends on the car.

To me, the better question is why would you not get the alignment? They aren't that expensive and you get peace of mind knowing there is no additional (and preventable) wear and tear.

 

[0zman99]

To me, the better question is why would you not get the alignment? They aren't that expensive and you get peace of mind knowing there is no additional (and preventable) wear and tear.

I recently had an alignment in the last 3 months and this dealership seems to charge an extra 20% on everything (I only go there as I got free synthetic oil changes with them). Plus I don't find it fair that warranty covers replacing a part but then highly recommends another service that isn't included under warranty. It's basically so "we replaced your part but screwed up another part you have to pay for".

 

[Blue Bucket]

I recently had an alignment in the last 3 months and this dealership seems to charge an extra 20% on everything (I only go there as I got free synthetic oil changes with them). Plus I don't find it fair that warranty covers replacing a part but then highly recommends another service that isn't included under warranty. It's basically so "we replaced your part but screwed up another part you have to pay for".

I can understand that.

On a side note, I used to go to a good local shop, went in for a full alignment on my previous awd car, they tested it and told me it wasnt needed, sent me on my way without charge. You might get lucky avoiding the dealership (they do alignments?).

 

[0zman99]

I can understand that.

On a side note, I used to go to a good local shop, went in for a full alignment on my previous awd car, they tested it and told me it wasnt needed, sent me on my way without charge. You might get lucky avoiding the dealership (they do alignments?).

Yeah I need to find a good local shop. My local Kal-tire was like that, they'd check and only charge if needed.

 

[0zman99]

LOL jinxed myself. The dealership broke some bolts and will now have the car till Wednesday (parts are on other side of country).

 

[Blue Bucket]

LOL jinxed myself. The dealership broke some bolts and will now have the car till Wednesday (parts are on other side of country).

Ouch. Good luck getting it fixed and back on the road.

 

[General_Vodka]

What a dealership... Ps other local tire shops will probably do the alignment for a lot cheaper

 

[Stock_stinger]

The front camber isn't adjustable so unless their adjusting toe which shouldn't change at all, I don't see it

 

[oddball]

The problem is the locating features of the knuckle to the strut usually has a bit of play in it - they can't be 100% perfect or they wouldn't go together. Some cars specifically use that as an adjustment point, some cars try to keep it tight. Even if everything is perfect, there are manufacturing variances that will likely end up putting the knuckle at a slightly different location than previously.
Alignment definitely should be checked after any suspension part replacement. You have a really good case that it should be included because, just like you said, it's a required activity after doing the warranty work. Spend some time yelling at the manager, especially now that they're taking extra time, and they'll likely write it off. If not, do the whole "I'll go talk to the GM and make it clear this is ridiculous and I'll never come here again..." stuff.
It's a major PITA, but you usually have to be a jerk to dealers to get them to do the right thing. It's like mutually assured destruction - they do stupid things because customers are jerks, and customers are jerks because they do stupid things.