just wondering, when i go to a mechanic shop, are these two the same service or different? say if i tell the guy i want an oil change and tire rotation, does that mean he'll also do an alignment?

Thanks

 

tire rotation is when you move your back wheels to the front and the front to the back. so no they are not the same. A alignment is where they align your front and rear tires so your car doesnt pull left or right on the highway. hope that helps.

 

yea that makes sense. so when they rotate the front/rear tires they won't check for alignment? they'll just rotate and that's it?

 

correct they will not. If your tires are wearing they might suggest an alignment. You dont need an alignment if your car is going straight down the rd.

 

Not always true. Your car could track straight but your toe or camber could still be off. Alignments aren't done just to keep your car from wondering, they prevent bad tire wear and extend the life of your tires.

 

Yes check the tires, especially the front ones, for uneven wear. If they are wearing more on one side, the alignment is suspect.