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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get an alignment?
Most drivers schedule alignment when they notice symptoms, after replacing tires, or following a significant impact. Some vehicles benefit from a check every year or so, depending on road conditions and driving habits. We can look at your tires and driving pattern and suggest a timeline that fits your situation.
What are the most common signs that my alignment is off?
Common signs include the car pulling to one side, an off-center steering wheel, uneven tire wear, or vibration at highway speeds. You might also hear a tire squeal in turns. If you notice any of these, we can inspect your vehicle and explain whether alignment or another repair is appropriate.
Can I wait here while you align my car?
Yes, many customers choose to wait in our lobby during alignment service. If you have other commitments, our complimentary shuttle service is often available so you can continue your day. We will give you an estimated timeframe and keep you updated while your vehicle is with us.
Will you tell me if I need other repairs too?
We check steering, suspension, and tires before performing alignment, and we let you know if we see anything that needs attention. Our goal is to explain what is urgent and what can be monitored. We walk through our recommendations in clear language so you can decide what works best for you.
Do you offer a warranty on alignment work?
We back our services with a strong warranty that applies to many repairs performed in our shop. Specific coverage can vary by service, so we review warranty details with you before work begins. This support reflects our commitment to quality workmanship and long-term relationships with our customers.
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.