does BMW have to do my alignment??

[jaxxx]

I rather not bring it to my dealership unless I have to..

[geneatals]

no...where are you located, try posting on 5series.net..as a member close to you may be able to recc a good shop? why do you need an alignment? did you recently change your wheels, tires, and or suspension?

[jaxxx]

just got new tires, Im in north fl

[blu330ciracer]

I hate going to the dealership as well- Since its just alignment- just make sure wherever you go that they offer a guarantee of some sort for another realignment incase its needed.

When I got my car realigned- they offered a service for realignment unlimited times for a year or 2... Wish I could offer more help- but good luck

[geneatals]

shouldn't need an alignment, just a good balance...if you are getting vibrating at somewhat higher speeds, try a road force balance...usually you only need an aligment if you switch out your suspension...

[Blue Streak]

I've needed alignments after switching my tires from run-flats to non run-flats. It made a huge difference and drove like it did when it was new (or better). I recommend getting an alignment after changing your tires, if they are any different at all from what was on originally. The balancing should be done first, and that's usually free at most good tire shops.

A little secret I learned after the BMW service center told me their alignments were about $400 is that "Firestone Complete Auto Care" center offers alignments, using Hunter laser equipment for about $70. Or you can pay about $120 to $140 for "Lifetime free alignments". I got the lifetime one and it's paid for itself already.