What to Expect With an Alignment
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
If you're concerned about the tread on your tires, we recommend the “penny test” to check your tread depth. Simply insert a penny into your tire's tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and it's time to replace your tires.
Why Accurate Wheel Alignments Matter
Wheel misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, steering issues, and compromised vehicle handling. Maintaining proper alignment becomes even more essential in Albuquerque, where roads can vary dramatically from urban to mountainous terrain. Our state-of-the-art alignment systems ensure your wheels are in perfect alignment, reducing the risk of accidents and saving you money on tire replacements.
Key benefits of regular car alignments include:
- Improved Fuel Economy: Properly aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency.
- Smoother Ride: Experience a smoother, more comfortable journey with reduced steering corrections.
- Enhanced Safety: Maintain better control of your vehicle, especially in adverse conditions.
Another key benefit of proper wheel alignment is its positive impact on environmental sustainability. Vehicles with misaligned wheels often require more energy to move forward, consuming excess fuel and increasing emissions. By ensuring your car's wheels are aligned, you not only save money at the pump but also contribute to a healthier environment.
Our Comprehensive Car Alignment Services
We provide a range of alignment options tailored to your vehicle’s needs. Our modern equipment lets us detect alignment issues with pinpoint precision, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle components.
We can help you with:
- Basic Alignment Check: A thorough inspection to confirm your vehicle’s alignment status.
- Front-End Alignment: Essential for correcting issues with steering and handling.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: Comprehensive alignment for vehicles that require all wheels to be perfectly aligned.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Ideal for correcting asymmetrical vehicles that need perpendicular axles and frame realignment.
Additionally, we offer alignment services that cater to specialized vehicles, including sport and luxury models, ensuring the high precision these vehicles demand. Utilizing the latest alignment technology, our services detect even the smallest discrepancies, promoting longer tire life and optimal vehicle performance.
Albuquerque-Specific Considerations
Driving conditions in Albuquerque come with their own set of challenges. From navigating the Sandia Mountains to traversing city traffic, your vehicle's alignment must adapt to varied terrains. Be it the busy I-25 corridor or the historic neighborhoods of the Old Town, proper alignment ensures your vehicle’s best performance.
Albuquerque's climate can fluctuate between extreme heat in the summer and cold winters, putting extra stress on your vehicle’s suspension system. Regular alignment checks can mitigate wear and tear caused by these environmental factors, preserving the integrity of your car and avoiding costly repairs down the line.
For reliable car alignment services in Albuquerque-Ventura, contact us at (505) 569-7726 or online today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
Most manufacturers recommend a wheel alignment every two years or 6,000 miles, but this can vary based on driving habits and conditions. In Albuquerque, due to diverse terrains, more frequent alignments might be necessary to ensure safety and optimal vehicle handling.
What Are Signs My Car Needs An Alignment?
If your vehicle pulls to one side, or if you notice uneven tire wear, steering wheel vibrations, or off-center steering, it’s time to get an alignment check. These are clear indicators that your car is due for alignment services.
It is also wise to schedule an alignment if your vehicle has been involved in any incident that might have affected its structure, such as hitting a curb or pothole. Addressing alignment issues promptly can prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s components.
Does Albuquerque’s Climate Affect Wheel Alignment?
Yes, Albuquerque’s climate and road conditions can impact your vehicle’s alignment. Temperature fluctuations can affect tire pressure, requiring more frequent checks to ensure alignment and prevent uneven wear.
What If I Ignore Alignment Issues?
Ignoring alignment issues can lead to serious safety risks and costly repairs. Misaligned wheels can cause tire damage, increased fuel consumption, and compromised handling, leading to a less safe and efficient vehicle.
Over time, neglected alignment can also affect the suspension system, leading to more complex mechanical issues. By attending to alignment needs promptly, you maintain your vehicle's reliability and uphold its performance standards.
Can I Perform Tire Alignments Myself?
While some minor tasks can be DIY, wheel alignment requires precise tools and experience to ensure accuracy. Relying on professional services like those offered by Christian Brothers Automotive Albuquerque-Ventura guarantees the highest level of precision and safety.
Attempting a DIY alignment without the proper equipment can result in further damage and increased costs. Our trusted technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Albuquerque-Ventura use advanced technology to offer a comprehensive service that ensures your safety and vehicle integrity.
FAQs
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Q. "What is the difference between a wheel alignment and a wheel balance?"Wheel alignment is the term for how your wheels sit when mounted to your car and wheel balancing is what’s done to perfectly balance the weight of a tire and wheel assembly so that it travels evenly.
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Q. "How often should I get a wheel alignment?"We recommend every 6,000 miles or when you experience signs of misalignment.
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Q. "What causes bad alignment?"Normal wear and tear can eventually cause your car to come out of alignment, but perhaps a more sudden occurrence would be things like hitting potholes, bumping curbs, or even minor accidents. Click here to read more on the causes and consequences of bad alignment.
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"Yes! we understand you have a full schedule. Whether you need to get to work, school, or need to attend to other responsibilities, we can take you where you need to go. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"Been going here for some time now. Always friendly and dependable service."
- RN