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 Regular Wheel Alignment Matters in Columbus
Staying consistent with wheel alignment checks can prevent issues beyond just tire wear. Properly aligned wheels not only extend the life of your tires but also improve fuel efficiency and driving comfort. Misalignment can cause your vehicle to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption and more frequent repairs.
Maintaining proper wheel alignment is essential in Columbus, where road conditions can vary with the seasons. Uneven pavement and potholes can knock your wheels out of alignment, increasing the risk of tire and suspension damage. At Christian Brothers Automotive Blendon Woods, we ensure your vehicle is prepared for local road conditions, enhancing performance and safety.
Furthermore, aligning your wheels regularly helps maintain optimal vehicle control, crucial for easily traversing Columbus's bustling roads. Misaligned wheels can lead to annoying vibrations and make handling more cumbersome, especially during sharp turns or on highway ramps.
Our Comprehensive Wheel Alignment Process
Our alignment process begins with a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. Our ASE-certified technicians use precise computerized measurements to determine the exact alignment of each wheel. This data allows us to adjust the angles—camber, caster, and toe—to match the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Camber: The angle of the wheels in relation to the road when viewed from the front. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear and handling issues.
- Caster: The angle of your steering axis when viewed from the side of your vehicle. It impacts straight-line stability and cornering balance.
- Toe: Refers to the direction in which the tires point in relation to each other. Proper toe alignment affects tire life and steering ability.
By meticulously carrying out these adjustments, we restore your vehicle’s balance and handling, improving efficiency and safety for your daily drives in Columbus.
Our process includes a detailed test drive conducted by our technicians to ensure the adjustment has translated well to a real-world driving scenario. We check for smooth transitions and handling across different speeds and surface conditions, ensuring that our clients' driving experience matches the standards promised.
Contact us at (380) 208-1683 or online for dependable car alignment services in Columbus.
Common Signs You Might Need a Wheel Alignment
Recognizing the symptoms of misalignment early can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Some common indicators include:
- Pulling to One Side: If your vehicle drifts to the left or right when driving on a straight road.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Noticeable wear patterns on the inside or outside edge of your tires, indicating misalignment.
- Off-Center Steering Wheel: Your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, which could mean an alignment issue.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: Shaking or vibration that increases with speed, often a sign of misalignment or balance issues.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us immediately to schedule a diagnostic check. Addressing alignment issues sooner rather than later helps avoid further damage.
It's also important to note that frequent visits for other services like tire rotations or replacements provide an excellent opportunity to combine these services with an alignment check. This proactive approach ensures comprehensive care for your vehicle's performance and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Get My Wheels Aligned?
It is generally recommended to align your wheels every 6,000 miles or as advised in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads or hit a significant pothole, having them checked more often may be necessary. Regular alignment checks ensure your vehicle operates efficiently, preserving tire integrity and safety.
What Are the Benefits of Wheel Alignment?
Proper wheel alignment offers numerous benefits including improved gas mileage, even tire wear, enhanced vehicle performance, and a smoother ride. By keeping your wheels properly aligned, you’ll extend the life of your tires and reduce the strain on your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems.
What Causes Wheel Misalignment?
Wheel misalignment can occur from hitting curbs, potholes, or accidents. Regular wear and tear, suspension system wear, and even carrying heavy loads can also contribute to misalignment over time. Regular checks help maintain your vehicle's alignment and performance.
Is Wheel Alignment Included in Routine Maintenance?
Wheel alignment is typically not included in standard maintenance packages and should be requested specifically. Including alignment checks in your vehicle’s care routine can identify issues early and prevent potential tire damage.
Can I DIY Wheel Alignment?
While minor adjustments can occasionally be done at home, a complete and accurate alignment requires specialized equipment and precision. Our technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Blendon Woods use precise alignment technology to thoroughly assess and correct misalignment, ensuring factory settings are restored for optimal vehicle performance.
Call us at (380) 208-1683 or schedule an appointment online to schedule your wheel alignment appointment in Columbus.
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 liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.