Suspension, tires and alignment
Wheel alignment (four-wheel): what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $0 | $0 |
| Labor: 0.8 to 1.5 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $100 | $263 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $100 | $290 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
A shop adjusts the angles of your wheels so the car drives straight and tires wear evenly. Needed if the car pulls, the wheel is crooked, or after suspension work.
What is usually included
- Four-wheel alignment
- Print-out of before and after readings
- Check tire wear and pressure
- Inspect suspension parts for play
What moves the price
- Adjustable versus non-adjustable cars
- Worn parts that prevent adjustment
- Truck or SUV
- Lifetime alignment deals
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Do I get before and after numbers?
- Are worn parts checked first?
- Is there a warranty on the alignment?
- Is it two-wheel or four-wheel?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a DIY; it takes laser or camera equipment to set the angles right.
Common questions
How do I know I need an alignment?
The car pulls to one side, the steering wheel sits off-center, or the tires wear unevenly on the edges. Hitting a curb or pothole can also knock it off.
How often should I get one?
Every year or two is common, and after hitting a big pothole or changing suspension parts.
Why couldn't they adjust it?
Bent or worn parts can keep the car from reaching spec. The shop should tell you what's needed.
How much does wheel alignment (four-wheel) cost?
A typical range in Boston is $100 to $290. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $100 to $290 |
| New York City area | $95 to $280 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $95 to $280 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $90 to $260 |
| Houston area, Texas | $80 to $250 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $80 to $250 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $85 to $250 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $90 to $260 |
| Miami area, Florida | $80 to $250 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $100 to $280 |