Wheel alignment might not be the flashiest part of car maintenance, but it’s one of those “small things” that make a huge difference. Get it right, and your car drives smoother, your tires last longer, and you save money on fuel. Skip it, and you’re in for uneven wear, shaky steering, and maybe even an expensive suspension repair.
If you’re due for an alignment, you might be wondering: how long does an alignment take? Is it a quick in-and-out job, or should you pack a lunch? Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect at the shop.
How Long Does It Take to Do an Alignment?
On average, a standard two-wheel or four-wheel alignment takes 30 to 60 minutes. That’s the actual hands-on work time once your vehicle is on the lift.
However, that doesn’t include:
- Check-in and paperwork (5–10 minutes)
- Pre-service inspection (10–15 minutes)
- Waiting time if the shop is busy
So from the moment you arrive to the moment you drive off, expect the total process to take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours in most cases.
How Long Does It Take for an Alignment on Different Vehicles?
The type of vehicle you drive can change how long the process takes:
- Small sedans & hatchbacks: Usually 30–45 minutes
- SUVs & trucks: 45–60 minutes due to larger tires and suspension complexity
- Performance cars: May take longer if precise custom adjustments are required
- Older cars: Rusted bolts or worn suspension parts can add extra time
How Long Does an Alignment Take on a Car vs. With Tire Rotation?
If you’re getting a tire rotation along with your alignment, add another 15–20 minutes to your service time. Many shops recommend doing both together since it ensures even tire wear from every angle.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Alignment If You Need Repairs?
Here’s where timing can jump. If during the alignment process the mechanic finds:
- Worn ball joints
- Damaged tie rods
- Bent suspension components
…those will need fixing before the alignment can be completed. Depending on the part, this could turn a 1-hour visit into a half-day repair.
Why Does an Alignment Take That Long?
An alignment isn’t just “eyeballing” your tires. The process is technical and precise:
- Mounting sensors to your wheels — These feed live data into a computerized alignment machine.
- Measuring current alignment angles — Caster, camber, and toe are compared to manufacturer specs.
- Adjusting suspension components — Small turns on specific bolts bring your wheels into proper alignment.
- Test driving — Some shops do a short drive to confirm the steering feels right.
Precision matters — even a fraction of a degree off can cause steering pull or uneven tire wear.
Can You Get an Alignment Faster?
Yes — if you plan ahead. Here’s how to shave time off your visit:
- Book an appointment to avoid walk-in wait times.
- Go early in the day before the shop gets backed up.
- Have your tires properly inflated — low tire pressure can delay measurements.
- Address obvious repairs first — fixing damaged parts ahead of time keeps the alignment smooth.
Signs You Might Need an Alignment
Even if you’re not scheduled for one, certain signs mean you should book an appointment ASAP:
- Your car pulls to one side when driving straight.
- Your steering wheel is crooked when you’re going forward.
- Uneven or rapid tire wear.
- Vibrations through the steering wheel at certain speeds.
How Often Should You Get an Alignment?
Most experts recommend getting an alignment every 1–2 years or every 6,000–10,000 miles, whichever comes first. But you might need one sooner if:
- You hit a pothole or curb hard.
- You’ve had suspension repairs.
- You notice steering or tire wear issues.
The Bottom Line
So, how long does an alignment take? In most cases, you’ll be in and out in about an hour. But depending on your vehicle type, added services like tire rotation, or unexpected repairs, it could stretch longer.
If you plan ahead, book an appointment, and keep your suspension in good shape, you’ll get your car realigned quickly — and enjoy a smoother, safer drive for months to come.
