Must I have an alignment done after I replace the struts and shocks on my 06 HHR LT? There was an alignment done a few months ago when I bought new tires. Thanks.

 

Until you added that there was an alignment done recently, my answer is no. BUT, since an alingnment was done with bad parts now the answer is yes.

The only setting that can be changed by the typical shop is the toe changing out the struts would normally not have any effect on toe, however the toe has some effect on the camber setting. If an HHR has never had an alignment done,replacing parts should not be cause for alignment except for tie rod ends.

Make sure the check your lower control arm bushings before the alignment.

 

X2 to all of the above.

 

My honest opinion no ,and donbrew is right .. I had a alignment done when i replaced the lower control arms and struts and when i was at the shop for a alignment everything was in spec just a small adjustment as far as toe that's it ..You got to watch these shops oh you need a four wheel alignment you need this and that been there and i said no thanks and drove away ...And when you do your struts then wait for about two weeks to get a alignment for the springs to settle if your going with quick struts because of the new springs they need to settle ..For peace of mind i had a alignment done..

 

change the struts, drive the car, and see if it pulls or shakes have the alignment done, but I do agree with Don because of the alignment done with the old parts on it will be different with the new parts.

 

As a tech who has done alignment and front end for the last 36 years, I would say at the LEAST... Have it checked. I have done struts and made no change in alignment, I have done struts that have made such a change in alignment, that the tire would wear very quick. (And could not be detected by just driving)
Have it checked and have them give you a print of your before and after alignment.
Just sayin

 

On a related topic...... you need to find an alignment guy that actually understands what he is doing. Most of them will see that the toe is a bit off on one side and adjust ONLY that side. They don't seem to understand that they are also making a bit of a change to the camber and don't even try to get both sides equalized (toe & camber), not even mentioning the steering wheel angle.