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.
Understanding Our Car Alignment Process
Car alignment, also known as wheel alignment, involves adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels to meet the specifications set by the manufacturer.
These adjustments might include:
- Camber: This angle affects how tires meet the road and plays a role in tire wear and cornering performance. Incorrect camber can lead to premature tire wear.
- Toe: Toe alignment impacts directional stability and tire wear. It’s crucial for smooth and controlled steering.
- Caster: This angle involves the steering axis and influences steering ease and vehicle stability.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Lakeland, our alignment services use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precision and improve your vehicle's handling. We conduct an in-depth assessment before beginning any alignment work, ensuring each vehicle receives a tailor-fitted service based on its unique requirements and the driver’s concerns.
Common Signs You Need a Wheel Alignment
In Memphis, fluctuating weather and diverse road conditions make routine alignment checks a wise choice. Recognizing early signs of misalignment can save you from expensive repairs.
Here are some key indicators of wheel misalignment:
- Vehicle Pulling: If your car drifts to one side, it’s a common indicator of misalignment.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Check your tires for any uneven patterns, often requiring alignment.
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel: A noticeable vibration usually points to an alignment issue.
- Off-Center Steering Wheel: While driving straight, your steering wheel should remain centered.
Proactively resolving alignment issues prevents additional wear and tear on your vehicle and contributes to a safer driving experience. By addressing these symptoms promptly, our clients often notice a significant improvement in vehicle handling and stability.
Why Choose Us for Your Tire Alignment Needs?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Lakeland, we believe in transparency and top-tier customer service. Our alignment services are delivered by skilled ASE-certified technicians who focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
Here's how we set ourselves apart:
- Manufacturer-Quality Equipment: We use state-of-the-art tools to ensure precise alignments.
- Educational Approach: We explain alignment issues using clear, jargon-free language to help you understand your vehicle better.
- Complimentary Shuttle Service: Our shuttle service ensures minimal disruption to your day while your car is serviced.
- Industry-Leading Warranty: Our confidence in our service is backed by a robust warranty for peace of mind.
Experience a welcoming atmosphere and expert care; we aim to make your visit comfortable and informative. Our commitment extends beyond just servicing your vehicle; we strive to educate our clients, empowering them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their automotive care. With a focus on building trust and long-term relationships, our services offer maximum value and satisfaction.
Contact us at (901) 589-5127 or online to book your tire alignment service. Trust your vehicle with us and get back on the road quickly and safely!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Get My Car Aligned?
For most vehicles, it’s recommended to have a car alignment check every 6,000 miles or when you notice symptoms of misalignment. Given the variable road conditions in Memphis, more frequent checks might be beneficial.
Regular alignment checks ensure your tires wear evenly and your vehicle handles safely, saving you money on premature tire replacements and repairs. Some experts suggest checking alignment annually as part of routine maintenance, especially for drivers who often navigate city streets with unpredictable traffic patterns and construction zones.
What Happens if I Ignore Alignment Issues?
Ignoring alignment issues can lead to increased tire wear, resulting in the need for more frequent replacements. You might also experience poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards.
Addressing alignment problems promptly helps maintain your vehicle's safety and performance, preventing costly repairs in the future. Misalignment can also increase strain on other vehicle components, such as suspension systems and wheel bearings, leading to more widespread mechanical issues over time.
Can Misalignment Affect Fuel Economy?
Yes, misalignment can negatively impact fuel economy. When your wheels are not aligned properly, they can create resistance and drag while driving, forcing your engine to work harder. This extra effort consumes more fuel, reducing overall efficiency.
Proper alignment helps optimize fuel consumption and improve your car’s performance. Regular maintenance, including alignment checks, is essential for maximizing fuel economy, particularly for urban drivers in Memphis who experience stop-and-go traffic.
Do You Offer Different Types of Alignment?
Yes, at Christian Brothers Automotive Lakeland, we offer various car alignment services, including front-end, four-wheel, and thrust angle alignments. Each type addresses specific alignment needs depending on your vehicle’s design and symptoms you may encounter.
Our technicians will assess your vehicle’s condition and recommend the most suitable alignment service to ensure optimal performance. This comprehensive assessment ensures that not only are immediate alignment issues addressed but potential future concerns are preemptively managed as well.
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.