I watch tire wear, and note any changes in steering wheel alignment. If you need alignments often it says something about your local road conditions and/or driving. It is also more sensitive if you have larger wheels and tires.

I have never paid for an alignment on any BMW vehicle since my first in 1994. Dealer may always have checked something without my knowledge during an inspection.

That's usually my mantra, but the car was driving straight and didn't appear to have any handling issues. I will definitely keep a close eye on the tire wear from now on!