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 You May Need an Alignment Service
While alignment issues are uncomfortable, they also cause big problems for your tires. Uneven wear can shorten your tires’ lifespan and even cause a dangerous blowout while you’re driving.
If your vehicle is exhibiting any of the following symptoms or has been in a recent collision, it’s imperative that you get your alignment checked out immediately:
- Uneven or cupped tire wear
- Cupped wear: also known as tire scalloping, this wear pattern appears as dips around the edge of your tire tread.
- Vehicle and floorboard vibrations at highway speeds
- Pulling to one side when driving straight
- Diminished handling capability
- Steering wheel off-centered while driving
How Christian Brothers Automotive Can Help
The right wheel alignment keeps your gas mileage up, extends tire life, and lets your vehicle perform at its best. We recommend checking your alignment every 6,000 miles or every six months to prevent early wear.
Sometimes, alignment issues aren't obvious. Subtle shifts can create uneven tire wear and shorten your vehicle’s lifespan. Our complimentary courtesy inspection during any service visit helps us spot most alignment problems, often during routine oil changes or maintenance. If you suspect your car has an alignment issue, let us know so we can check it for you.
In Frisco, heavy commuter traffic and highway speeds can hide the early signs of misalignment. Our courtesy checks factor in local driving patterns. If you drive along rougher stretches of Preston Road or routinely hit construction areas, mention this at your next visit so our team can assess your alignment considering these regional conditions. Taking care of your suspension and steering system in Frisco helps your entire vehicle last longer and saves money over time.
What Makes Our Alignment Shop Different in Frisco
Our approach starts with your needs and includes clear explanations of the alignment process. Our ASE-certified technicians review your vehicle and outline recommended services in easy-to-understand language. You can meet owner/operators on-site, giving you direct communication during your visit. The atmosphere at our Frisco location is warm and inviting, letting you relax while we work on your car.
We build trust through clear quotes, honest answers, and an industry-leading warranty on our services. Our complimentary shuttle keeps busy families and professionals on track, and our alignment checks account for Frisco's unique driving hazards and seasonal changes. Focusing on real relationships and dependable advice, Christian Brothers Automotive Frisco has become a trusted name in alignment services for Frisco drivers seeking safety and reliability.
FAQs: Understanding Vehicle Alignment Better
What Is the Difference Between Wheel Alignment & Balancing?
A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels to match the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring the car drives straight and reduces uneven tire wear. Wheel balancing addresses the weight distribution across the wheel and tire; correcting an imbalance prevents high-speed vibrations and delivers a smoother ride.
Can New Tires Affect My Vehicle's Alignment?
Installing new tires can affect alignment because tire size or wear patterns may change handling slightly. After getting new tires, have your alignment checked and adjusted if needed to ensure the suspension functions as intended and your car performs well.
How Does Misalignment Affect My Suspension System?
Misalignment causes uneven stress on suspension and steering components, leading to faster wear on ball joints, bearings, or other parts. Timely alignment protects your tires and helps you avoid costly suspension repairs in the future.
Do I Need a 4-Wheel Alignment Every Time?
Not every car requires a 4-wheel alignment. Vehicles with independent suspensions usually benefit from 4-wheel alignment in Frisco, but those with solid rear axles may only need front-end adjustments. At Christian Brothers Automotive Frisco, our technicians recommend the right option after checking your car.
Can Alignment Improve Fuel Efficiency?
Proper alignment can boost fuel efficiency. When your wheels line up correctly, the engine works less to keep the car moving, so you use less gas and see savings over time.
Keeping your vehicle aligned also reduces environmental impact and creates a smoother, more efficient drive. Regular alignment checks add up to greater savings and long-term comfort.
How Often Should Car Alignment Be Checked?
Have your car’s alignment checked every 6,000 miles or at least once a year. If you drive on rough roads, are in an accident, or notice steering or tire wear issues, get it checked sooner.
Regular alignment checks play a key role in your maintenance plan. Keeping your wheels straight adds to safety, extends tire life, and improves comfort on Texas roads.
What Causes Car Alignment Issues?
Several factors can lead to misalignment, including:
- Hitting potholes or curbs
- Worn suspension components
- Accidents or collisions
- Carrying heavy loads
Changing your vehicle's ride height, such as with a suspension lift, can also change alignment angles. Paying attention to these factors helps you prevent alignment issues and protects your car's performance.
Ensure your car drives straight and safely with expert alignment services in Frisco. Book a service online or call (972) 846-0532 today for smooth, comfortable rides!
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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"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.