If your car is pulling to the left or right or your tires are wearing unevenly, you likely need a wheel alignment service. With over 4,700 stores across the country, you may be wondering – can I get a wheel alignment done at Walmart?
Unfortunately, Walmart does not offer wheel alignments at their Auto Care Centers as of 2022. While they provide services like oil changes and tire rotations, wheel alignments are not something currently available.
Don‘t worry, you have plenty of alignment options through tire shops and mechanics. In this detailed guide, we‘ll cover:
- Wheel alignment basics – what it is, why it‘s needed
- Costs of alignments at other providers
- Additional services offered at Walmart
- How to make a Walmart Auto Care appointment
- Top-rated alignment shops to use instead
- Tips for saving money on your wheel alignment
We‘ll make sure you know exactly where to get your wheels properly realigned and save money!
What Is a Wheel Alignment and Why Do You Need It?
Let‘s first cover the basics – what exactly is a wheel alignment and why is it important for your vehicle:
A wheel alignment (also called front end alignment) refers to adjusting the angles of the wheels so they are positioned correctly relative to each other and the road.
Getting your wheels properly aligned helps with:
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Even tire wear – Misalignment causes tires to wear unevenly on the edges. An alignment keeps them wearing down evenly.
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Better fuel economy – Wheels aligned properly reduce drag and friction for improved MPG.
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Enhanced handling – Alignments lead to better steering control and responsiveness.
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Safer driving – Your car will track straight with aligned wheels, especially at highway speeds.
Without proper alignment, you may experience:
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Pulling in one direction – Car drifts or pulls to the right or left.
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Vibrations in steering wheel – Misaligned wheels cause the steering wheel to shake.
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Reduced tread life – Tires wear out faster due to uneven edge wear.
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Control difficulties – Car may feel loose or wander on the road.
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Reduced MPG – Increased drag from misalignment lowers fuel efficiency.
A wheel alignment inspects and adjusts the angles of:
- Camber – inward or outward tilt from vertical
- Caster – front wheel tilt from vehicle centerline
- Toe – side-to-side orientation
I recommend getting your alignment checked anytime new tires are installed and at least once a year as part of routine maintenance.
How Much Does a Wheel Alignment Cost?
Alignment costs vary depending on location, vehicle type, and shop. However, on average plan to spend $50-$150 for a wheel alignment service.
Here are typical alignment costs at major tire and auto shops:
- Firestone – $79.99
- Big O Tires – $59.99-$99.99
- Midas – $69.99-$109.99
- Meineke – $59.99-$109.99
- Goodyear – $59.99-$99.99
- PepBoys – $59.99-$99.99
Larger trucks and SUVs may be slightly higher. Many providers offer coupons and discounts too, which we‘ll touch more on shortly.
Can You Get an Alignment at Walmart?
Unfortunately, Walmart does not perform wheel alignments at their Auto Care Centers. If an alignment is needed, the Walmart technician can likely recommend a good shop nearby.
While alignments are not available, Walmart does offer a variety of budget-friendly car services including:
Walmart Auto Care Services
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Oil changes – Starting at $19.88 conventional oil. Synthetic and synthetic blends extra.
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Tire services – Rotations, replacements, repairs, installations, balancing, and more.
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Battery services – Testing, replacement, and installation.
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Brake services – Pad and shoe replacements, caliper repair, flushes, and more.
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Maintenance items – Filters, wiper blades, bulbs, belts, etc.
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Fluid services – Transmission, coolant, power steering flushes and fluid replacement.
Walmart uses certified techs to perform quality work on most makes and models. Their convenient locations and affordable pricing make them a top choice for basic maintenance.
Scheduling a Walmart Auto Care Appointment
Booking an appointment at your local Walmart Auto Care Center is quick and easy through these options:
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Online – Use the Walmart store finder to locate your nearest store with auto services. Select "Make Auto Care Appointment" to input your info and desired service.
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Phone – Look up your local store‘s phone number on the store finder. Call and let them know the service needed and your vehicle details to book over the phone.
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In-person – Visit the Auto Care Center at your store to speak with an agent about scheduling an appointment.
Making an appointment allows the techs to prepare ahead of time to complete your service promptly upon arrival. Same day appointments may also be available based on demand.
Top-Rated Shops for Wheel Alignments
Since Walmart does not offer alignments, here are our top recommended alignment and tire service providers:
Firestone
One of the most trusted tire and auto care brands with over 2,200 locations across the U.S. Firestone offers quality computerized alignments starting at $79.99. Schedule an appointment online or by phone.
Big O Tires
With nearly 400 locations primarily in western states, Big O is another leading tire shop. Their Professional Alignment starts at $59.99 for most vehicles. All alignments come with a 24 month, 24,000 mile warranty.
Meineke
Meineke is a nationally recognized car care retailer with over 900 service centers nationwide. They offer alignments starting at $59.99. Print and save on their $10-$20 off any alignment coupons.
Midas
Midas operates nearly 1,200 auto shops across the country. Their Standard Alignment starts at $69.99 and includes a 90-day warranty. Use the store locator to find one nearby.
Pep Boys
Pep Boys has over 800 stores with 9,000 service bays nationwide. Their 3D imaging alignment starts at $59.99 and includes free tire rotations. Find a location on their site.
| Provider | Starting Price | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Firestone | $79.99 | Trusted brand, computerized alignment equipment |
| Big O Tires | $59.99 | Western states, 24 mo./24k mile warranty |
| Meineke | $59.99 | 900+ locations, coupons available |
| Midas | $69.99 | 1,200 shops nationwide, 90-day warranty |
| Pep Boys | $59.99 | 800+ stores, free rotations |
Tips for Saving Money on Alignments
While a proper alignment is important, there are ways you can save:
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Use coupons – Most tire shops and chains offer $10-$20 off alignment coupons. Search "[provider] alignment coupon" online or check mailers.
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Ask about specials – Some shops run monthly or seasonal specials on alignments and other services.
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Join rewards programs – Signing up for free rewards programs can give you points towards future service discounts.
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Buy tires at same shop – Many tire stores offer free or discounted alignments when purchasing tire set.
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Use a local mechanic – Independent shops may offer more affordable rates than big chains.
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Time it right – Off-peak times like weekdays may have lower labor rates. Avoid weekends and holidays.
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DIY alignment tools – If you‘re very handy, alignment tools like the BeeLine exist for DIY alignment. But pros provide the best service.
Following basic car care tips like rotating your tires regularly and addressing alignment needs promptly can maximize the life of your tires and keep repair costs low.
The Bottom Line – Go Pro for Your Alignment
While Walmart Auto Care Centers provide plenty of convenient maintenance services, wheel alignments are not something currently offered.
For now, your best option is to visit specialized alignment and tire shops like Firestone, Big O Tires, and similar auto care retailers when your car is due for an alignment.
Misaligned wheels can lead to expensive tire wear, safety issues, and vehicle problems. So address any alignment concerns right away. Typical costs range from $50-$150. Take advantage of coupons, rewards programs, and other ways to save on this essential service.
We hope this detailed guide gave you all the necessary facts to make an informed choice for your next wheel alignment service. Walmart may expand into alignments someday, but for now the professionals are your best bet to get your wheels properly realigned and driving smoothly.
