[wifes330i]

First post since trading in the 330i for the 535i in March (2011, Certified, 27K miles). The car came with new tires and being certified, I had assumed that the alignment was done as part of the certification process. However, after I saw this weekend that the rears are already worn to the wear tabs (after just 5,000 miles of 95% highway driving), I see that only the steering wheel alignment is part of the checklist.

I phoned customer relations tonight and the 18-year-old that answered was not aware if the alignment was part of the process or not and told me to call the dealer (I'll call tomorrow). I'm still amazed that they don't do an alignment so as to prevent someone from having to dump $1,000 in a car that we've only had for 4 months.

Our 3 series had to get an alignment every 18 months on average due to the crappy Chicago roads, however, we live further north now and the highways around here are in very good condition. I'm assuming they'll tell me that I should have noticed it needed an alignment sooner.

I'm prepared to buy the 2 tires but I'm thinking they should at least perform the alignment gratis (or the other way around). Anyone had any experience in this department?

[lsturbointeg]

Same here. Certified preown and the rear tires were done and the vehicle had 37k. Dealer said tires were only covered for manufacture defects but because the wore evenly I was forced or rather told I would need to buy new tires mind you this is after 1 month buying the car!

[wifes330i]

lsturbointeg, Did they at least throw in an alignment?

[lsturbointeg]

According to the dealership they did do the alignment even tho they said it was not recommended. Now I'm on 20" rims sitting on Dunlop RF's...dealer said its about average miles these tires get since they are performance tires. Usually if u keep them balanced and alignment keeps the tire wear last longer but because you can't rotate them there's nothing you can do about that.

[The X Men]

Certification now a days is just a fancy name for extended warranty and new tires. Dealer will not do a 4 wheel alignment as part of the certification process. On a new BMW, wheel alignments are usually covered for the first month or two, not sure about a used BMW. I would convey the problem to the dealer and express your dissatisfaction. In my opinion, the dealer should do a 4 wheel alignment for free as a good will gesture.

[Bbb34]

I was told that alignment is not part of CPO, and that they do "check" but do not specifically go and do alignment as a part of the CPO before car is sold.

I'm assuming by "checking" it's likely "visual inspection" and not a proper alignment checkup. First week of ownership I had it taken in for wheel alignment just to make sure it's OK, and based on "before and after" results, some adjustment was needed to the car.

[wifes330i]

Thanks guys. So, yes, they only do an alignment if they spot something during the road test. I also was told that the prior owner had an alignment and replaced the rear tires about 6 months before trade in. One of the fronts had a puncture so he replaced both fronts right before the trade in so that explains why the fronts are in better shape than the rears. I'm still doing the alignment tomorrow regardless and will replace the rears next spring. Live & learn, ask for the alignment before buying a CPO.