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.
Comprehensive Alignment Services for Your Needs
We offer the following wheel alignment services:
- Basic Alignment Check: Quick assessment to determine alignment issues.
- Front-End Alignment: Adjusts the front wheels for straight and balanced driving.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: Ensures all wheels are aligned properly, useful for vehicles with independent suspensions.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Ensures the rear axle alignment matches the front for accurate steering.
Each type of alignment serves a specific purpose based on your vehicle's design and needs. A front-end alignment is typically carried out on older vehicles with a non-adjustable rear suspension. In contrast, a four-wheel alignment is essential for all-wheel-drive models, ensuring uniform alignment across all wheels.
Choosing the right alignment service can significantly improve your vehicle's handling and extend the life of your suspension components. Our team will guide you through the options based on your car's specifications and current condition.
Why Proper Wheel Alignment Matters in Amarillo
The roads in Amarillo can vary from smooth highways to rugged rural paths, making proper wheel alignment essential for all types of vehicles. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised safety. By maintaining correct alignment, you safeguard your investment in your vehicle, enhancing both its lifespan and performance. At Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo, our goal is to provide you with comprehensive care for a better driving experience.
Amarillo's unique environmental conditions also affect vehicle alignment. Windy weather and dust storms can cause debris to disrupt the smooth operation of your vehicle. Regular alignment checks are vital in such dynamic conditions to ensure that your steering and suspension systems remain in top working order. Being proactive about wheel alignment can prevent inconvenient and potentially dangerous situations on Amarillo's busy streets and highways.
Amarillo’s Trusted Partner in Automotive Care
Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo is committed to transparency and customer education. We believe in informing you about your vehicle’s needs in straightforward, understandable language. This approach, combined with professional service and local convenience, positions us as your go-to partner for wheel alignments in Amarillo. With complimentary shuttle services and a warm, inviting shop atmosphere, we ensure your time with us is as pleasant as it is beneficial.
Our dedication to service extends beyond just repairs and alignments. We actively listen to our customers, providing personalized recommendations tailored to each vehicle's unique history and wear patterns. This meticulous attention to detail fosters trust and builds long-term relationships, as we aim to be a continuous support system for your automotive maintenance needs. Our Amarillo team is skilled and genuinely passionate about delivering superior service.
Call us at (806) 484-0978 or contact us online to book your appointment and experience the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Wheel Alignment & Why Is It Important?
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles of your wheels so that they conform to the car manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment is crucial because it ensures even tire wear, optimal handling, and increased fuel efficiency.
Without proper alignment, your tires can wear unevenly, your steering could be off, and your vehicle may not handle as intended. This affects your drive's safety and can lead to further mechanical issues if not resolved promptly.
How Often Should I Get My Wheels Aligned?
While wheel alignment is often recommended every two to three years, it’s advisable to have it checked annually or during routine maintenance, especially in areas like Amarillo where road conditions can vary. Additionally, if you hit a curb or pothole, or notice uneven tire wear or steering issues, it’s wise to schedule an alignment check as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain vehicle safety.
Regular maintenance intervals can also coincide with state inspections or tire rotations, making it a convenient time to have your alignment evaluated. Maintaining regular wheel alignment is a preventative measure that saves you money in the long run by avoiding premature tire replacement and potential damage to suspension components.
Can Misalignment Affect My Tires?
Yes, wheel misalignment can significantly impact your tires, causing them to wear unevenly or prematurely. This uneven wear reduces the lifespan of your tires, leading to more frequent replacements. Proper alignment helps ensure that tire tread wears evenly, extending the life of your tires and maintaining their performance. At Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo, we emphasize the importance of regular alignments to protect your tire investment.
In addition to uneven wear, misalignment can impact tire performance by altering the contact patch with the road, reducing traction, and affecting braking distances. These issues are especially problematic in adverse weather conditions, where maximum tire efficiency is critical for safety. Ensuring proper alignment is integral to vehicle maintenance, enhancing safety and longevity.
What Are Common Signs of Misalignment?
Common signs that your vehicle might need a wheel alignment include the car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, a vibrating steering wheel, or the steering wheel being off-center when driving straight. Recognizing these signs early can help prevent long-term issues with your vehicle’s performance and safety. Our expert technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo can diagnose and resolve alignment issues swiftly.
Additional indicators of misalignment may include a noticeable decrease in vehicle handling, unusual noises when turning, or a sensation of sluggish response from your steering wheel. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's best to check your alignment as soon as possible. Addressing these issues promptly at Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo ensures a smoother drive and averts further mechanical stress.
Why Choose Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo for Wheel Alignment?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo, we prioritize your safety and satisfaction. Our ASE-certified technicians use advanced alignment technology to ensure precision in every service. We are dedicated to transparency and will walk you through any recommended services, providing you with confidence and peace of mind. As your neighbors in Amarillo, we're proud to be the trusted choice for wheel alignment and all your automotive needs.
Our commitment to customer care extends beyond technical service. We aim to create a welcoming environment where you feel comfortable asking questions and gaining a deeper understanding of your vehicle's health. This openness fosters a partnership built on trust and reliability, making Christian Brothers Automotive Amarillo synonymous with quality automotive services in Amarillo.
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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"I was driving from Fort Worth to Durango in a two day old Mercedes GLS 580 when a warning light indicated that the oil was overfilled. With the nearest Mercedes dealerships 5 hours away, Christian Brothers remedied the problem quickly and The manager did n"
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