How Much Does an Alignment Cost at Walmart? A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, wheel alignment is one of those services that can make a huge difference in how your car drives—and how long your tires last. Many car owners look for affordable and trustworthy places to get this job done, and one of the first names that comes to mind is Walmart.

But the big question remains: Does Walmart do alignments, and if so, how much does an alignment cost at Walmart? This guide dives deep into everything you need to know, from the availability of alignment services at Walmart, to cost expectations, signs you might need an alignment, and alternative options if Walmart isn’t the right fit.

Does Walmart Do Alignments?

Let’s start with the burning question: Does Walmart offer wheel alignment services at their Auto Care Centers?

The answer is no—Walmart Auto Care Centers currently do not offer wheel alignment services.

Although many customers remember that Walmart used to perform tire alignments in the past, the service was gradually phased out across all locations. Walmart has shifted its focus to other tire-related services and general vehicle maintenance instead.

💡 Fun Fact: Many online forums and reviews mention that Walmart discontinued alignment services to avoid liability issues and because alignments require highly specialized tools and training.

Wheel Alignment Explained

What Is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment (sometimes called tire alignment) refers to adjusting the angles of your car’s wheels so that they are perfectly aligned with the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures that:

Your tires wear evenly.
The car drives straight.
You improve fuel efficiency.
Your suspension system experiences less stress.

What Are the Key Angles Adjusted in a Wheel Alignment?

Camber: The inward or outward tilt of the tire when viewed from the front.
Toe: How much your tires point inward or outward when viewed from above.
Caster: The angle of the steering axis when viewed from the side.

Getting these angles just right is essential for optimal driving performance.

How Much Does an Alignment Cost at Walmart?

Here’s the Catch…

Since Walmart no longer offers alignment services, you cannot get a wheel alignment at Walmart Auto Care Centers.

But, Walmart still offers a variety of affordable tire and auto services, which we’ll cover shortly. For now, if you’re looking specifically for alignment services, you’ll need to turn to another provider.

Why Doesn’t Walmart Offer Alignments Anymore?

1. Liability Concerns

Wheel alignment involves adjusting the suspension and other sensitive components. If not done properly, it can lead to severe safety risks. Walmart may have decided that the risks outweighed the benefits.

2. Specialized Equipment

Unlike tire installation or battery replacement, alignments require high-precision machines and trained specialists. Walmart Auto Care Centers are designed for quicker, lower-complexity services.

3. Operational Costs

Wheel alignment machines are expensive, and maintaining the level of expertise needed to use them correctly would require significant investment. For Walmart, it likely made more business sense to stick to basic services.

Other Auto Services Walmart Offers

Although Walmart doesn’t offer alignments, they still have a comprehensive list of other automotive services. Here’s what you can get done at a Walmart Auto Care Center:

🛞 Tire Services

Tire Mounting: Starting at $11 per tire (Walmart-purchased)
Tire Balancing: Around $14 per tire
Tire Rotation: Approx. $5 per tire
Flat Tire Repair: Around $15 per tire

🔋 Battery Services

Battery Installation: Free if bought from Walmart
Battery Testing: Free
Battery Terminal Cleaning: Small service fee

🛢️ Oil Change Services

Basic Oil Change: ~$29.88
High Mileage Oil Change: ~$39.88
Synthetic Oil Change: ~$49.88

🚗 Other Services

Windshield wiper installation
Headlight replacement
Air filter replacement
Fuel system cleaning (in select locations)

Signs Your Car Needs an Alignment

While Walmart may not offer alignment services anymore, knowing when you need one can help you avoid larger issues.

🚘 1. Vehicle Pulls to One Side

If your steering wheel is centered but your car drifts left or right, you’re likely due for an alignment.

🔄 2. Uneven or Rapid Tire Wear

Inspect the tread on your tires. If one side is more worn than the other, misalignment is a probable cause.

🛞 3. Steering Wheel Vibration

Misaligned wheels can cause your steering wheel to shake, especially at higher speeds.

📏 4. Crooked Steering Wheel

When you’re driving straight, your steering wheel should be straight too. If it’s off-center, that’s a red flag.

How Often Should You Get a Wheel Alignment?

There’s no hard-and-fast rule, but most experts recommend:

Every 10,000 to 12,000 miles
Once a year, especially if you drive on rough roads
Whenever you install new tires
After suspension repairs or collisions

Keeping up with this schedule helps extend the life of your tires and ensures your vehicle handles smoothly and safely.

Alternatives to Walmart for Wheel Alignment

Here are some of the top places where you can get reliable wheel alignment services:

1. Firestone Complete Auto Care

Cost: $80–$100
Perk: Lifetime alignment package available
Guarantee: Lifetime or 1-year options

2. Goodyear Auto Service

Cost: Around $100
Guarantee: 6-month/6,000-mile warranty

3. Les Schwab Tire Centers

Cost: $80–$100
Perk: Free alignment checks
Guarantee: 30-day warranty

4. Jiffy Lube

Cost: $90–$130
Perk: Fast service with frequent discount coupons
Guarantee: 6-month/6,000-mile

5. Pep Boys

Cost: $80–$100
Perk: Offers four-wheel alignment
Guarantee: 6-month warranty available

🔧 Tip: Always ask for a printout of your alignment specs before and after the service. It’s your proof and helps you track wear patterns over time.

Conclusion

While Walmart does not currently offer wheel alignment services, it still remains a go-to spot for affordable automotive maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, battery replacements, and more.

If you’re in need of a wheel alignment, consider visiting specialized auto care centers like Firestone, Goodyear, or Jiffy Lube. Though prices may vary, you can typically expect to spend between $80 to $100 for a standard four-wheel alignment, depending on your vehicle and location.

Taking care of your vehicle’s alignment is essential not just for smoother driving, but for ensuring the longevity of your tires, fuel efficiency, and overall safety. Skipping this critical maintenance step could cost more in the long run.

Whether you’re shopping for new tires or just due for an oil change, Walmart Auto Care Centers still offer plenty of value—and with thousands of locations nationwide, convenience is never far away.