Do I need an allignment after replacing the lower ball joint?

Thanks

 

Yes, I would, misaligned cars become costly later, very costly, stress on other components, tire wear, etc.


Cheap insurance, I think firestone has one for 69 dollars

 

I'd definitely have it checked. I replaced the lower ball joints and upper control arms in my 2007 Suburban. I marked the upper control arms and put everything back to the marks. I lucked out and it was perfectly aligned. If it was just the lowers, you might be okay but have them checked anyway.

 

you do not need an alignment after a lower ball joint replacement. the lower bj is pressed into the control arm, its location will not change one iota as the lower ca is not removed for replacement. Upper control arm yes, an alignment is needed as the entire control arm eccentrics that locate it are moved.


if the existing tires look ok, don't bother. if you have an 8 year old vehicle that has tire wear patterns due to spring sag an alignment is a good idea; definitely get it aligned when new tires go on.