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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Wheel Alignment Important for My Vehicle?
Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires meet the road at the correct angle, the wheels are pointing straight, and all tires wear evenly. This improves handling and extends the life of your tires, enhances fuel efficiency, and keeps your vehicle running smoothly. Misalignment can lead to irregular tire wear, steering problems, and reduced safety.
How Often Should I Get My Wheel Alignment Checked?
It's generally recommended to check your wheel alignment every 6,000 miles or as advised in your vehicle’s owner manual. However, specific factors like hitting a curb, potholes, or encountering an accident may necessitate more frequent checks. Regular alignments help maintain optimal performance and safety.
Additionally, if you experience any changes in driving behavior or difficulty handling your vehicle, it is prudent to have it inspected. Even new tires can influence the alignment, and checking alignment after installing new tires can safeguard them from premature wear.
What Are the Signs That My Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment?
Common indicators of misalignment include your vehicle pulling to one side, uneven or rapid tire wear, a steering wheel that's off-center when driving straight, and vibrations in the steering wheel. If you experience any of these symptoms, scheduling an alignment check promptly is important.
Furthermore, listening for unusual noises when turning or noticing increased drag on the road can also signify misalignment. Addressing alignment issues promptly can prevent further mechanical issues and save money on costly repairs.
How Does the Wheel Alignment Process Work?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Barrington, we utilize state-of-the-art computerized alignment technology to ensure pinpoint accuracy. Our process includes assessing your vehicle's current alignment, adjusting angles to meet manufacturer specifications, and performing a comprehensive inspection to confirm the correction. This thorough service ensures your vehicle is optimally aligned for safe and efficient driving.
Beyond the technical process, we provide a detailed alignment report post-service, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. Our dedicated team will discuss any findings and provide recommendations for further maintenance to enhance your vehicle’s performance.
Can Misalignment Affect Fuel Efficiency?
Yes, when your wheels are not aligned correctly, your vehicle faces increased resistance on the road, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular wheel alignments can help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective maintenance practice.
Moreover, improved alignment reduces strain on your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems, lowering the risk of additional repair costs and enhancing your ride's overall drivability and comfort.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
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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"Hands down best shop i've ever dealt with. clean, modern facility (and i've seen some bad ones...). very efficient communication. quality, honest work. free shuttle service. wouldn't even consider going anywhere else. class operation top to bottom. highly "
- Michael F