I'd def. go with the alignment check. They're usually like $20 bucks at most shops.. pep boys, merchants..etc and they check all the suspension components and everything before they even do the alignment to prove the alignment would be effective. Also, if you do in fact need one and you get it done you don't have to pay for the check... most alignments are by warranty... usually around $69.99 for 90 days, $99.99 for one year, $139.99 for two years.