Replace shocks without needing an alignment

[v9ff]

My mechanic says that he can replace my front struts and rear shocks without my needing to get the car an alignment.

Is this true?

[juanbenae]

the rear will not be affected at all, except for a possibilty of a slight increase in ride height.

do you have turbo tie-rods up front currently? if not i would install a set of them with the struts and get an alignment for both up front. if not if the wrench is very precise he should be able to get it back in line. i would just be aware of tire wear or pulling of the front end under braking or when you let the wheel go and if it vears to one side.

[v9ff]

I have the turbo tie rods... I think I'll have it aligned anyhow just for the reassurance. I just wanted to check the mechanics info.

Thanks for the reply!

[911pcars]

Unless the new shocks are of the gas-pressure type that changes the ride height, an alignment is NOT necessary (unless it needs it anyway).

Sherwood

[Por_sha911]

Your mechanic won't need the alignment but you will. Unless there is a noticable pulling to one side, you may not know you have a problem until you have wasted a tire. Besides, a fresh alignment is like a fresh haircut: you feel better (or in this case you handle the corners better).