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
What Are the Signs That My Vehicle Needs an Alignment?
Several indicators suggest your vehicle may require alignment adjustments. If your steering wheel is off-center, your car drifts to one side, or you notice uneven tire wear, it may be time for an alignment check.
Additionally, experiencing vibrations in the steering wheel or hearing unusual noises can signal alignment issues.
Drivers often ask how to tell the difference between an issue that calls for a quick tire alignment and one that points to a deeper suspension concern. If your vehicle suddenly starts pulling after driving over rough patches on US-45 Bypass or you see rapid wear on just one edge of a tire, it is a good idea to have our team inspect both the alignment angles and key suspension components. By catching worn parts early, we can help you make informed decisions about repairs and keep your vehicle stable on the varied roads around Jackson.
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
In Jackson, it’s recommended to have your vehicle’s alignment checked periodically or as specified in your vehicle’s maintenance guide.
However, significant changes such as hitting potholes or curbs, installing new tires, or observing any warning signs should prompt an immediate check.
Some vehicles may benefit from more frequent vehicle alignment in Jackson that drivers can depend on if they regularly tow, carry heavy loads, or travel on gravel roads outside the city. These conditions can place extra strain on suspension parts and gradually move your wheels out of proper position. When you visit us, we can review how you use your vehicle and suggest an alignment interval that fits your driving habits rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all timeline.
What Is the Difference Between a Front-End & 4 Wheel Alignment?
A front-end alignment focuses on adjusting the angles of the front wheels, which is crucial for vehicles with a solid rear axle.
In contrast, a 4-wheel alignment ensures all wheels are correctly set, vital for vehicles with independent rear suspensions for balanced handling and tire wear.
When deciding between these services, we look at your vehicle’s design, current tire wear patterns, and how you typically drive around Jackson and the surrounding areas. For many modern cars and SUVs, a 4-wheel alignment Jackson drivers request after installing new tires can help promote even wear across all four corners. By choosing the right type of service, you get more consistent handling in curves and better stability during highway trips across Tennessee.
How Does Proper Alignment Improve Fuel Efficiency?
Proper wheel alignment reduces rolling resistance, allowing your vehicle to move smoothly without requiring excessive engine power.
This efficiency leads to better fuel consumption, saving you money on gas and reducing environmental impact.
Over time, keeping your wheels properly set can also reduce the strain on related components, which may help you avoid some unexpected repair visits. If you commute daily across town or frequently drive between Jackson and nearby cities, even small gains in fuel economy can add up. By pairing regular alignment checks with correct tire pressure and timely rotations, you create a maintenance routine that supports both performance and long-term operating costs.
Can Wheel Misalignment Affect My Vehicle’s Performance?
Yes, misalignment can negatively impact your driving experience. It can lead to increased tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and compromised handling.
Ensuring your wheels are properly aligned will help maintain your vehicle's optimal performance and provide safer driving.
Misalignment can also contribute to driver fatigue, because you may find yourself constantly correcting the steering wheel while traveling through traffic on major Jackson routes or during longer road trips. If left unchecked, this extra effort can make driving less enjoyable and may mask developing suspension issues. Addressing alignment concerns promptly gives you a more relaxed, predictable feel behind the wheel and supports safer travels for you and your passengers.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
-
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.
-
Q. "How often should I get a wheel alignment?"We recommend every 6,000 miles or when you experience signs of misalignment.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
"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.