Yes, wheel alignment machines do need to be calibrated.
Steering wheel shakes
No. If there had previously not been any alignment issues, and as long as the new tires are properly balanced, you will not need an alignment.
if you have independent suspention front and rear chances are a 4 wheel alignment can be done typically front wheel drive vehicles but not all.
A two wheel can be done, but a four wheel is preferred.
I just took my all wheel drive Subaru to Town Faire Tire today. Before the service man knew my car was an all wheel drive, he explained about alignments and said that all wheel drive cars often need alignment more frequently. At 12,000 the print out figures showed that my car needed one.
NO That depends on how the struts attach to the knuckle or control arm. On some front wheel drives an alignment is required.
You may need a wheel alignment, or you may need bushings.
Alignment rack, need 4 wheel alignment done
There is no need to have a cars wheels aligned on a regular bases. It is a good idea though to have the alignment checked when installing new tires to prevent excess wear on the tires.
It depends on if you whether you need 2 wheel or 4 wheel alignment. Two wheel can range from $30-$65. 4 wheel can range from $50-$95 depending on the area you live.
Your tires are bad or you need an alignment. Get your tires checked, they may need to be replaced or rotated, and you can check your alignment by letting go of the steering wheel while driving, if it drifts left or right significantly, you need an alignment.