I know my grilfriend's 2002 Civic needed an alignment after I replaced the struts. Do I need one for my 97 Civic? They have different suspension.

 

A wheel alignment should not be necessary after replacing the front struts. Replacing the rear struts is different story.

 

The ONLY adjustable angle on a Honda is TOE. Camber and caster are not adjustable, and replacing front and/or rear Struts will not change the TOE and/or camber/caster (camber will be negative on a lowered Honda & (can only can fixed with a camber kit). Camber or caster could be out also if the car has been in an accident). An alignment check is recommended every 8-12,000 miles to make sure it is within specs. and adjusted as necessary. You would definitely need an alignment if you had replaced the rack n pinion, and/or tierods since they affect the toe angle.

 

Well, the 6th generation Civic service manual (96-98) suggests an alignment after replacing the rear struts.

 

An alignment CHECK is recommended every 8-12,000mi for almost any vehicle, new suspension parts or not. This is usually free at most shops like Sears Auto, NTB, Firestone, Tires Plus, Goodyear, etc.