I bought my xB with aftermarket 18" rims.

My steering wheel isn't straight, as I've read it's a pretty common problem.

I had my appointment at the dealership on Wednesday Sept 29th. They tell me on Thursday/Friday when I went in to pick up my vehicle (assuming they had the alignment done) that they couldn't use their alignment rack with my 18" rims on it, and I had to bring back my steelies.

The service guy said it doesn't matter the size of the rim/tire, it just raises the vehicle (no ____) so if he aligns the car with the steelies on it, it would be the same thing with the 18". (eh?)

I've never heard of this. I think they just don't wanna pay another place to do their work.

Anyone able to fill me in on something I don't know? :?:

Thank you...

Dave

 

I believe only if you have lowered or raised the car say the springs/coilovers, then yes you will need an alignment. If you put bigger tires/rims then no you do not need an alignment.

Go to a reputable alignment shop in your area to help you understand when you need an alignment. Most alignment shops, if you just talk to them about your concerns will try to be more helpful than say the service manager who told you this or that without clarifying what you did not understand.

Anyways, an alignment shop should always be able to align your car with its current setup.

DongeR

 

That's how I always thought it to be, but wasn't certain.

I'll have to check with the alignment people for sure.

Thanx for your help.

Dave

 

Changing tire and wheel sizes (plus/minus sizing) does not create the need for a wheel alignment unless you need to change the camber to allow for more clearance!