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.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment
Regular wheel alignments are essential for your vehicle's safety and performance.
Here are some common signs of misalignment:
- Your vehicle pulls to one side: If your car consistently pulls to the left or right when driving straight, it's a sign your wheels may be misaligned.
- Uneven or rapid tire wear: Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, often leading to bald spots on certain areas of the tire.
- Steering wheel vibration or off-center: If your steering wheel shakes or doesn't sit straight while driving, it could mean your alignment is off.
- Crooked steering wheel: When your steering wheel is off-center, even when driving straight, this could be a sign that the alignment is out of balance.
- Squealing tires: If your tires squeal when driving, especially when turning, it could be due to improper alignment, causing undue friction.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, addressing them sooner rather than later is crucial. Ignoring alignment issues can lead to increased tire wear, poor fuel efficiency, and potential suspension damage, costing you more in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a misaligned wheel?
Common symptoms of wheel misalignment include your vehicle pulling to one side, uneven or rapid tire wear, a steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight, or vibrations in the steering wheel. If you experience any of these issues, it's advisable to schedule an alignment check promptly.
How often should I get a wheel alignment?
It is generally recommended to have your wheel alignment checked regularly based on your driving conditions and manufacturer guidelines. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads, encounter potholes, or experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you may need to check it more often.
Can a wheel alignment improve fuel efficiency?
Yes, a proper wheel alignment can support better fuel efficiency. When your wheels are aligned correctly, your vehicle rolls more efficiently, reducing resistance and aiding in better fuel economy. This adjustment can particularly impact vehicles driven on Fort Worth’s varied road surfaces.
What happens during a wheel alignment service?
During a wheel alignment, our technicians will inspect the angles of your wheels and adjust them according to your vehicle manufacturer's specifications. This service typically includes adjusting the camber, caster, and toe angles, ensuring your car drives straight and handles accurately on the road.
Why is wheel alignment important for my tires?
Proper wheel alignment is crucial for preserving the lifespan and performance of your tires. When wheels are aligned correctly, tires experience even tread wear, reducing the likelihood of premature replacement. This maintenance protects your investment in your tires and contributes to safer driving conditions.
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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.