During a wheel alignment the vehicle is driven onto a special rig and the angles of the wheels are measured precisely with sensors or cameras. The key values are toe (do the wheels point slightly inward or outward when seen from above), camber (the tilt of the wheel relative to vertical) and caster. The technician compares the actual values with the manufacturer's target values and adjusts any deviations via the track rods and other adjustment points.
Incorrect axle geometry arises, for example, from driving over potholes or kerbs, after an accident or after chassis work (new track rods, springs, control arms). Typical symptoms are one-sided, saw-tooth tyre wear, a car pulling to one side, a crooked steering wheel when driving straight, or unsettled handling.
A correct alignment brings several benefits at once: even and therefore longer tyre life, better straight-line stability, more precise steering and slightly lower fuel consumption because there is less rolling resistance. A check makes sense after any chassis work, when fitting new tyres and whenever one of the symptoms above appears.
As a guideline (no guarantee): a pure alignment measurement (measuring and report) costs roughly CHF 80–150. If the toe adjustment is included, you are looking at about CHF 120–250 depending on effort and axles. Vehicles with an adjustable rear axle or complex multi-link suspension can be more expensive. The appointment usually takes 45 to 90 minutes.