Alignment, mechanical or high tech? I need a quick answer!

He may get it just close to the 100% mark. But problem is, Toyota recommends that you use tech stream to perform zero point calibration, when the steering gears being replaced; EPS module, etc.
Without using tech stream, the steering won't be aligned perfectly.

 

Try both situations, and see how it fizzles out.
Use the utility section on the software, and follow the instructions on how to proceed.

 

The alignment per se is mechanical, like other cars; if the shop gets that right, it will drive straight and not eat the tires.

The point of having the computers relearn the calibration afterward will be so the ABS, stability, and traction control algorithms will be most effective.

-Chap

 

I'd try the old fashion way first. If there isn't much change required, that will be all you need.

Actually, is there some problem that you're trying to solve? I've got 125,000 miles on my 2006 and it has never had an alignment. Tire wear is symmetric, steering wheel is at center when going straight, and it doesn't pull to either side. Why mess with something that is working OK? On the other hand, my wife's car with about 35,000 miles has extra wear on the left side of the front left tire. It's going to get an alignment with the new tires...

 

Might want to give your mechanic a copy of the first ten pages from this:

https://attachments.priuschat.com/attachment-files/2017/11/135660_SP_-_Suspension.pdf

 

it can be done but the reason you should have it done at a shop that has the right equipment is accuracy . By doing it there you front and rear wheels will be tracking properly .I did alignments for 25 years before retiring . Irecommend a private shop specializing in 4 wheel alignments .Find one and stick with them . george

 

I have had a tire shop do a front end alignment twice over the last 12 years and never did any techstream afterwards. I have techstream.

Car runs straight as a arrow and 25,000 miles later the tires wear perfectly..

The front end is no different than any other car mechanically.

But my car did not pull to the right or anything else but yours does so it may have some big wear issues your string guy will not see. A good alignment guy if he see's something way out he will find out why usually something bent or worn so in the long run I think your better off with the car going for a full front end check up and alignment at the tire store. Tell the guy doing it what your seeing. Tire stores in my area charge $79. for full alignment with print out.

You did have the TSB done to replace the steering intermediate right? That's very important as it was a steering part that when it failed you would lose steering. If not and its very worn it could affect steering. It was a free replacement years ago.

This:

2008 TOYOTA PRIUS | Safercar | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

 

The only time you should do it with strings and a tape measure is after doing front end work...to rough it in...so you can get it to the shop and get it aligned properly after. End of story.