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.
Types of Alignment Services
4 Wheel Alignment in Bradenton
A 4-wheel alignment, also known as a full alignment or all-wheel alignment, involves adjusting the angles of all four wheels to ensure they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road. This comprehensive service ensures optimal tire wear, handling, and safety for your vehicle.
Basic Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles at which the wheels make contact with the road. Proper wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining tire longevity, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance. Our skilled technicians use advanced equipment to accurately align your wheels.
Count on Our Certified Car Technicians
At Christian Brothers Automotive Bradenton, our ASE-certified technicians provide precise alignment services to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Using state-of-the-art computerized technology, we detect and correct even subtle misalignments. Whether you drive a car, truck, or SUV, our team delivers efficient solutions to keep you safe and confident on Bradenton roads.
Frequent travel on busy routes like Manatee Avenue or US-41 can lead to alignment issues. We account for local road wear patterns to help you avoid costly repairs. Regular checks maintain optimal condition, extend tire life, and improve fuel efficiency, ensuring reliable performance for every local drive.
- Advanced Technology: Computerized equipment for precise adjustments.
- Certified Experts: Skilled technicians diagnosing all vehicle types.
- Local Insight: Service tailored to Bradenton’s unique driving conditions.
- Transparent Service: Clear explanations to help you make informed decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a wheel alignment take?
In most cases, a standard wheel alignment at Christian Brothers Automotive Bradenton takes about an hour. However, if our initial inspection reveals worn suspension parts or significant damage from hitting curbs or potholes, it may take longer to repair those components first. We value your time and will provide a time estimate before beginning any work.
What is the difference between wheel alignment and tire balancing?
While both affect ride quality, they are different services. Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Tire balancing fixes weight imbalances within the tire and wheel assembly to stop vibrations. If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel, you may need both checked.
Do I really need an alignment when I get new tires?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Installing new tires without correcting your alignment can cause your new investment to wear out unevenly and prematurely. Getting an alignment ensures you get the maximum lifespan out of your new tires and maintain the manufacturer's warranty requirements.
Does my car need a 2-wheel or 4-wheel alignment?
This depends on your specific vehicle. Most modern cars, SUVs, and trucks—especially those with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or independent rear suspensions—require a 4-wheel alignment. Pickup trucks with a solid rear axle usually require a front-end (2-wheel) alignment. Our technicians will check your manufacturer's specifications to perform the correct service.
Can I drive with bad alignment?
While you can drive, it is not recommended. Driving with misaligned wheels causes rapid, uneven tire wear, which can ruin a set of tires in just a few thousand miles. It also reduces your fuel efficiency and can make the vehicle harder to control in emergency situations on Bradenton roads. It is safer and more cost-effective to address the issue immediately.
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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"THEY ARE THE 2 F'S AND AN A..... FAST, FAIR AND AFFORDABLE. THIS is THE SHOP WE BEEN NEEDING FOR A LONG TIME IN OUR AREA. THE staff IS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND HELPFUL. I HIGH RECOMMEND THEM. FINALLY, An HONEST AUTO SHOP!!!!!"
- A.Baker