I just put new tires on my ‘14 450h. Last time I got it aligned, the shop tried to charge me for a “computer program”. I declined it but I’d like to hear from you if there is anything to this before I get it aligned again. I can’t see any computer setting needed for an alignment. I’m not changing the tire size, it’s still stock size.

 

Before reading the AI report below, did you ask them what that was and whether it has any bearing on the alignment procedure / end result? Need more info to give you a better answer.

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Here’s what’s really going on when an alignment shop asks if you want a “computer program” as part of your front‑end alignment.

Short answer:
They’re referring to a computerized alignment check/report—not actual software you take home. It’s usually an upsell for a printed or saved digital alignment report produced by their computerized alignment machine.

✅ What “computer program” means in this context

1. Modern alignment racks use computerized measuring systems

Shops use laser‑ or camera‑based computerized alignment machines to measure wheel angles such as toe, camber, caster, and thrust angle. These machines create a detailed alignment report before and after adjustments. [bobistheoilguy.com]

2. Some shops sell the “computer report” as an add‑on

Many shops charge extra for the printed or digital report that the computer generates. It’s sometimes pitched as a “computer program” or “computer printout.” This is often part of an upsell strategy because shops invest $10,000–$40,000 in alignment equipment and try to recoup costs through optional services. [certifiedm...ertech.com]

3. The “program” is not required for the alignment to be performed

The technician still uses the computerized rack to perform the alignment whether you buy the report or not. The upsell just provides documentation showing:

• Before/after angle readings
• Whether the car is within factory specs
• What corrections were made

This report can be useful if you want to verify work or monitor tire wear—but it’s not necessary for a proper alignment.

🔍 Why shops push it

• Many newer alignment systems automatically scan cars as they enter the service bay, prompting service advisors to recommend alignments or add‑on reports. [rav4world.com]
• Shops use alignment checks and reports as a profit booster, even when unnecessary. [certifiedm...ertech.com]

🧰 Do you need the “computer program”?

You might want it if:

• You want proof your alignment was done correctly
• You’re diagnosing uneven tire wear
• You had accident damage or suspension repairs

You can skip it if:

• Your car drives fine and you just want the alignment done
• You trust the shop and don’t care about printed before/after data

The alignment quality does not depend on whether you buy the “program.”

📌 Bottom line

When a shop asks if you want a “computer program,” they’re referring to the computerized alignment readout/report from the alignment machine. It’s typically an optional upsell, not a required service or special software for your car.

If you want to be sure they're being transparent, simply ask:
“Is this just the computerized before‑and‑after report from the alignment machine, and is the alignment itself the same without it?”
Want help understanding what a proper alignment report should look like? I can walk you through it.

 

BTW, I think it is overplayed that you need an alignment after getting new tires. I have never done it and don't have any issues. If your car is running straight with the old tires and you don't have a reason to get an alignment, then after you get new tires and your car isn't running straight, it is probably the new tires that are not true and not your alignment.

Just use your head and think about what makes sense vs doing it because it sounds like a good idea.

 

Wheel alignment should be performed after tire changes or suspension repairs. It is also recommended to check wheel alignment every 5,000-10,000 miles or once a year (whichever comes first).
Of course, you can skip wheel alignment altogether if you don't care about even tire wear, vehicle handling, or whether the steering wheel is straight or not.

 

"skip wheel alignment altogether if you don't care...." sounds argumentative. No one is suggesting skipping anything all together, nor not caring. There is a balance and if you have a sense of how your vehicle drives before and after major work like suspension parts replacement or new tires, you can tell what is needed and when in doubt, get it aligned.

Ugh...

 

Confirming the need for a 100% wheel alignment is only possible after installing the car on a wheel alignment stand. Even if everything appears to be in order, after a few thousand or even hundreds of miles, one of the wheels may show significant wear on the inside or outside.
Wheel alignment costs less than one tire.

 

It actually costs more than that. Takes time and finding a good mechanic that will do it and not lie to you that you need something else. With the economy the way it is in the US now, businesses are getting shadier by the minute. And honestly, if you get a good alignment from a good, reputable mechanic, it can cost close to the price of a new tire.

 

If you're confident that after suspension work or tire changes, the car doesn't pull to one side when driving or braking, the steering wheel is straight, and there are no squealing sounds from the tires, you certainly don't have to go to the dyno for an inspection. At least, I can't force you to do so.

 

I know what you're talking about. I'm a mechanic and I've done wheel alignments on my own cars. I currently work in a shop that doesn't have a wheel alignment stand, and finding a decent place with a skilled mechanic is a real challenge.
Finding a good place to change tires and get the wheels properly balanced is also a problem. Not to mention having a good scanner to register new tire pressure sensors...

 

Is there a setting they need to make in the cars computer?

 

don't get me going on airguns set at WFO. Im voting no on alignment...sounds like an add on(profit).

 

No

 

By the way, someone wrote earlier about an extra charge for a "computer program." That's nonsense. It's the first time I've heard of such a thing. I've worked at various shops, in different states and cities, and nowhere have they charged extra for printing out a sheet showing the wheel alignments before and after the adjustment.

 

If you don't understand how cars work and how to repair them and you think so, then it's absolutely normal to think so.

 

I think the OP got all the viewpoints and needs to decide what is good for him and his vehicle so please please give it a rest.

Salim