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.
Advanced Alignment Services We Offer in Gilbert
At Christian Brothers Automotive McQueen and Guadalupe, we offer a comprehensive range of wheel alignment services to meet your vehicle's specific requirements, including:
- Basic Alignment Check: A thorough inspection to determine your vehicle’s current alignment status.
- Front-End Alignment: Adjustments for your front wheels to ensure they are parallel and properly aligned with each other.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: A complete adjustment for all four wheels, ideal for vehicles with independent suspension systems.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Ensures all four wheels are square with each other and aligned to the vehicle's centerline.
Each type of alignment service is tailored to address common alignment problems experienced in the Gilbert area, notably those caused by frequent driving over uneven surfaces or encountering potholes. Our thorough approaches go beyond superficial fixes, evaluating the entire steering and suspension system to provide comprehensive correction. We believe in not only solving the immediate issue but also in preventing future alignment problems.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing Christian Brothers Automotive McQueen and Guadalupe for your wheel alignment services in Gilbert means you’re getting more than just a standard alignment.
Here's what sets us apart:
- Honest & Transparent Service: We prioritize clear communication and ensure you understand your vehicle’s needs without technical jargon.
- Manufacturer-Quality Equipment: We use the best tools and technology to deliver precise alignment every time.
- Customer-Centric Experience: From our welcoming atmosphere to our complimentary shuttle services, we prioritize your convenience.
Our auto shop is staffed by professionals who are technically adept and passionate about building long-term relationships with our clients. Our on-site owner/operators ensure that each service journey is personally overseen, providing an additional layer of trust and accountability. This personal touch means each visit is more than just a transaction; it's a step towards a safer, more reliable vehicle journey.
Call us at (480) 744-6073 or contact us online to book your car alignment appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Signs That My Car Needs an Alignment?
If you're experiencing steering wheel vibration, uneven tire wear, or your vehicle is pulling to one side, these are common signs that your car may need a wheel alignment. At Christian Brothers Automotive McQueen and Guadalupe, we recommend getting your alignment checked at these early signs to prevent further damage and ensure safe driving conditions.
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
We suggest having your wheel alignment checked every two to three years, or annually if you frequently drive on uneven roads. Regular checks are vital as road vibrations and minor impacts from potholes can gradually alter your vehicle's alignment.
More frequent alignment checks might be necessary for those involved in frequent long-distance drives or towing heavy loads. That's because the extra load or extended drives can induce stress on the vehicle's suspension and alignment, making regular check-ups integral to vehicle health and longevity.
Can I Perform an Alignment Check at Home?
While minor checks, such as observing tire wear patterns, can be done at home, precise alignment adjustments require specialized equipment available at professional service centers like Christian Brothers Automotive McQueen and Guadalupe. Our advanced technology provides precision that’s unmatched by DIY methods.
Professional car alignment services include comprehensive evaluations of suspension system components, ensuring no hidden issues compromise your vehicle’s handling. This detailed inspection helps preempt any complications that could lead to unsafe driving conditions or expensive repairs.
Does Wheel Alignment Affect Fuel Efficiency?
Yes, wheel alignment significantly impacts fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels create uneven tire drag, causing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Proper alignment reduces this drag, improving efficiency and saving you money on fuel.
Efficient fuel consumption is not just a cost-saving measure, but also a pivotal part of an environmentally friendly driving strategy. Correct alignment helps your vehicle run cleaner, reducing carbon emissions and contributing to global environmental efforts. This conscientious approach to vehicle maintenance supports both your wallet and our planet.
What Is the Difference Between Wheel Alignment & Wheel Balancing?
Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels, ensuring they are aligned with each other and the road. Wheel balancing, however, focuses on the even distribution of weight across the wheel and tire assembly. Both are essential for a smooth ride but address different aspects of tire maintenance.
The benefits of balanced tires extend beyond eliminating the vibration issue. Proper wheel balancing preserves suspension life and provides a much more comfortable driving experience. It also leads to more consistent tire wear, which maintains overall vehicle stability and performance over the long term.
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.