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.
Benefits of Regular Wheel Alignment
Routine wheel alignment comes with numerous benefits, including:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Proper alignment means less resistance against the road, allowing your vehicle to move more efficiently and save on fuel consumption.
- Enhanced Safety: A correctly aligned vehicle is more stable and handles better, especially on Falcon's varied terrain.
- Prolonged Tire Life: Evenly worn tires last longer, which means fewer replacements and cost savings over time.
- Reduced Stress on Vehicle Components: Alignment issues can cause other vehicle components to wear out more quickly. Regular alignments mitigate this risk, potentially saving on future repairs.
- Environmental Benefits: Regular alignments contribute to improved fuel economy and reduced tire wear, resulting in lower emissions and less waste. This is an important consideration for eco-conscious drivers in Falcon looking to minimize their environmental footprint.
How Our Wheel Alignment Process Works
When you bring your vehicle to Christian Brothers Automotive Falcon for a wheel alignment, our skilled technicians will start with a comprehensive inspection. This includes assessing tire condition, suspension, and steering components. Using advanced alignment machines, we ensure that each wheel is properly aligned according to the manufacturer's specifications.
During the alignment process, our technicians will explain any issues found and offer guidance on preventive measures to avoid recurring misalignments. This could involve recommendations on tire rotation schedules, suspension maintenance, or adjustments when navigating common road hazards in Falcon, such as potholes and uneven surfaces. By proactive engagement, we empower you to make informed decisions about your vehicle maintenance.
Our process is thorough and precise, addressing even the smallest discrepancies. By adjusting the angles of your wheels—camber, toe, and caster—we enhance your vehicle's handling and prolong tire life. This meticulous attention to detail sets our service apart in the Falcon region.
Why Choose Us?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Falcon, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional automotive care. Our team is committed to providing top-notch service tailored to the needs of Falcon drivers.
Here are a few reasons to choose us:
- Local Expertise: We're familiar with Falcon's roads and driving conditions, which informs our approach to wheel alignment.
- Advanced Technology: We use the latest alignment technology to guarantee accuracy and reliability.
- Customer-Focused Service: Our friendly staff prioritize your needs, providing transparent communication and honest recommendations.
- Convenient Location & Hours: Our Falcon location offers flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle.
- Trusted Reputation: We're proud of the trust we've built with our customers through consistent, reliable service. Many Falcon drivers count on us to keep their vehicles running smoothly year after year.
Contact us at (719) 416-5341 or online to find out more about our car alignment services and how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is wheel alignment, and why is it necessary?
Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of your car’s wheels to the car manufacturer’s specifications, which helps ensure that the vehicle drives straight. It's necessary to prevent uneven tire wear, improve handling, and enhance fuel efficiency. Regular alignment checkups can prevent costly repairs and support safer driving.
Beyond enhancing performance and safety, regular wheel alignments are also crucial for ensuring your warranty is not voided. Many vehicle manufacturers require annual alignment checks as part of their warranty agreements. Ignoring these stipulations could result in denied warranty coverage for suspension or steering-related issues.
How often should I get my wheel alignment checked in Falcon?
For optimal performance and safety, it is recommended that Falcon drivers have their wheel alignment checked every 6,000 miles or at least once a year. Conditions such as potholes or driving on rough roads can necessitate more frequent checks.
Given Falcon's rapidly changing weather, regular checks help prevent alignment issues exacerbated by snow, ice, and rain. Each change of season is an opportunity to evaluate whether recent weather patterns have affected your vehicle's alignment, helping you stay ahead of potential problems.
What are the signs that my wheels are out of alignment?
Common signs include uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, an off-center steering wheel, and vibrations while driving. If you experience any of these, it may be time to have your alignment checked.
Additionally, if you've recently hit a significant pothole or curb, it’s wise to inspect your alignment, even if the initial symptoms aren't noticeable. Prompt checks can prevent minor issues from developing into larger mechanical problems.
What happens if I ignore misaligned wheels?
Ignoring misalignment can lead to faster tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and compromised handling. This can result in costly repairs and can pose safety risks, especially in adverse driving conditions like those found in Falcon.
Additionally, persistent alignment problems can strain your vehicle's suspension system, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Over time, this strain can also affect the wheel bearings and tie rods, reducing the overall lifespan of these components. Addressing alignment issues promptly can safeguard your vehicle's integrity and your wallet.
Can wheel alignments be affected by local weather conditions?
Yes, local weather conditions such as rain, snow, and ice can impact road surfaces, leading to misalignment. This is particularly relevant in Falcon, where seasonal changes make regular alignment checks even more important.
Beyond road conditions, the varying temperatures in Falcon can affect tire pressure weekly, impacting alignment over time. Regular maintenance ensures your vehicle is prepared to handle these environmental stresses effectively, maintaining reliable performance throughout the year.
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.