[jthomas1600]

The mechanic suggested new struts and an alignment. I'm just wondering how often other people take care of these issues.

How often do you replace struts? The mechanic says the tires are not holding to the road well.

How often do you get an alignment?

[thesteve]

I think standard replacement for struts is supposed to be something like 75K-80K miles. I can't remember what the general recommendation for alignment is.

[doulos14]

Alignment is all relative, you could go over a curb, new tires, different size tires. If you're getting new struts then a new alignment would of course be very useful.

[mulletman]

Go with full coil-overs. Bilsteins or Ohlins. Or Moton. Do it now. They're re-buildable.

[gtrdave]

I used to replace struts and mounts (don't forget the mounts!) at around 80k miles, but our old Caravan went over 150k w/o replacements and my '01 Neon is on par for about the same. Honestly, the car still drives and handles great.
I'll probably sell the car before I change the struts.
The Miata, otoh, does need them replaced. It's at 82k right now and I can feel that they're not what they should be.
I'm probably gonna go with basic KYB GR2 replacements.

As was already said, alignment is relative. You SHOULD have it aligned after replacing the struts or any other major susp. component, but in general if the tire wear is good, tire pressure is proper and overall track of the vehicle is straight, no alignment is necessary imho.