Just got four new tires for the XC90 (AWD) yesterday, replaced withwhat came on them from the factory;Michelin Pilot HX MXM4's.

During an earlier service visit this year my dealer commented that I would need tires soon, and when I replaced them that a Four Wheel Alignment should be done, with an estimate of $94.00.

My question is, is this alignment really beneficial to the life of the new tires and should I get this done? Or is it just nice-to-do kind of stuff? The vehicle handles and tracks great, and with being out of work (still), I am looking to avoid the expense if possible, but NOT at the risk of ruining the new tires prematurely. Thoughts?

 

$94 is not that bad from a dealer. You could price the local capable shops for lower prices. Many argue it is reasonable piece of mind when buying new tires.

Is it absolutely neccessary? No. Did the last set of tires wear evenly? If so you could argue against. Does the steering hold straight when let go? If so you are probably in decent shape. There may be other factors that are not felt that could affect tire wear.

I am not an expert on the XC90's so there may be other cases to be made.

One important factor is tire rotation, that can really affect tread life.

Good luck.

 

I had it done when I got the tires replaced, I paid 90.00 at a tire shop, so 94.00 at the dealer seems pretty decent. I was told later that it is not absolutely necessary but I just figured get it done that way just in case I am not having to take it in if it were to pull to one side or something.