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.
When you need car alignemnt
Misalignment often manifests through subtle changes in how your vehicle feels and drives. Ignoring these early warning signs can lead to expensive suspension repairs and ruined tires. If you notice any of the following symptoms while driving in Roanoke, it is time to schedule a wheel alignment.
- Vehicle Pulling: The car drifts to the left or right when driving on a straight, level road.
- Crooked Steering: The steering wheel remains off-center even when you are driving straight ahead.
- Uneven Wear: You see rapid or uneven tread wear on the inside or outside edges of your tires.
- Steering Vibration: The steering wheel vibrates or shakes, especially at higher highway speeds.
- Squealing Tires: Tires make squealing noises when turning corners, indicating incorrect angles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Signs My Vehicle Needs Alignment?
Typical signs you need an alignment include your car pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a crooked steering wheel when driving straight. Regular alignments help prevent these issues, improving tire life and vehicle safety.
Additional indicators of misalignment can include vibrations in the steering wheel, unusual wear patterns on tires, or a noticeable squealing during maneuvers. Recognizing these early signs can save you from more extensive repairs down the line, preserving your vehicle's health and your peace of mind.
How Often Should I Get an Alignment?
We recommend having your alignment checked every 6,000 miles or as specified in your vehicle’s owner manual. Roanoke’s unique terrain, from a mix of city streets to nearby rural routes, can alter alignment, making regular checks important.
Additionally, if you've had encounters with potholes or curbs, or if you're planning a lengthy road trip, checking your alignment can help prevent potential issues. Proactive maintenance helps you avoid costly repairs and ensures a smoother driving experience as you navigate Roanoke’s diverse landscapes.
Can Poor Alignment Affect Fuel Efficiency?
Yes, poor alignment increases rolling resistance, requiring your vehicle to use more energy and resulting in decreased fuel efficiency. Proper alignment ensures smooth movement, helping to maintain optimal fuel economy.
By aligning your wheels properly, you ensure that each tire meets the road at the correct angle, reducing unnecessary friction and allowing for more economical fuel consumption. Over time, this can lead to meaningful savings and contribute to a more environmentally friendly operation of your vehicle.
What Is Thrust Angle Alignment?
Thrust angle alignment involves aligning the rear wheels' angle of thrust with the vehicle's center line. It's important for maintaining stable handling control, particularly if you've experienced any rear-wheel collisions.
This adjustment provides balance, enhancing stability, particularly during high-speed driving or while braking. It also helps ensure your steering wheel is centered and the car travels straight without deviating to the left or right, delivering a safer and more comfortable driving experience for your journeys around Roanoke.
How Does Local Terrain Affect Alignment?
Roanoke’s diverse road conditions, from gravel roads to steep inclines, can impact your vehicle’s alignment. Regular alignment checks are helpful to adapt to these variable conditions, supporting safety and consistent vehicle performance.
Changes in temperature throughout the year can also affect tire pressure, further influencing alignment. By understanding these factors, you can proactively manage your vehicle's requirements, maintaining control and confidence in every drive, regardless of the season or type of road you encounter in the Roanoke area.
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.