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.
Signs You Need an Alignment Check
Does your car pull to one side or notice uneven tire wear? These are clear indicators that you might need an alignment check. If your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight or you experience vibrations in your steering wheel, a professional evaluation is essential. Our team in O'Fallon is ready to diagnose and address any alignment issues with precision and care.
Ignoring alignment issues can lead to:
- Premature Tire Wear: Uneven and rapid tire wear, requiring earlier replacements.
- Compromised Handling: Reduced vehicle stability and control, especially at high speeds or in adverse conditions.
- Increased Fuel Consumption: Higher rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency.
- Suspension System Damage: Additional stress on suspension components, resulting in costly repairs.
- Steering Mechanism Problems: Strain on steering components, potentially causing steering wheel and power steering issues.
- Safety Risks: Increased risk of accidents due to diminished vehicle control and responsiveness.
Regular alignment checks can identify these issues early, preventing more costly repairs and ensuring your vehicle remains safe under all driving conditions.
Our Comprehensive Alignment Services
Whether you require a basic alignment check, front-end alignment, four-wheel alignment, or thrust angle alignment, we have you covered. Our technicians use precision equipment to ensure every adjustment enhances your driving experience. This attention to detail makes us a preferred choice for alignment services in O'Fallon.
We can help you with:
- Basic Alignment Check: Ensure your vehicle's alignment is just right for everyday travel.
- Front-End Alignment: Adjusts only the front wheels for improved steering accuracy.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: Vital for vehicles with adjustable rear suspensions.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Aligns all four wheels, essential for rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Whether you drive a family sedan, an SUV, or a truck, our customization ensures that each vehicle receives the care it requires. Additionally, our technicians undergo continuous training to stay updated on the latest automotive technologies and techniques, ensuring they can confidently tackle even the most complex alignment challenges.
Why Choose Us?
Our commitment to the O'Fallon community is unrivaled. We provide transparency, reliability, and exceptional service tailored to your needs. With onsite owner/operators, a welcoming environment, and complimentary shuttle services, we aim to make your visit convenient and stress-free. Moreover, our industry-leading warranty gives you peace of mind when entrusting us with your vehicle's care.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Shiloh, we take the time to explain each service, ensuring you understand the value and necessity behind every recommendation. This commitment to transparency helps build trust and ensures that every decision you make is informed. We believe this level of engagement and honesty sets the foundation for a long-term relationship with our customers, making us not just a service provider but a trusted ally in maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety.
Contact us at (618) 437-7132 or online to schedule your tire alignment today and ensure your vehicle's reliability and safety on the road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is wheel alignment important?
Wheel alignment is crucial because it ensures all wheels are set to the optimal position for smooth driving. Proper alignment enables better fuel efficiency, longer-lasting tires, improved vehicle handling, and a smoother ride. It also decreases wear on your suspension system and helps prevent alignment issues caused by uneven road surfaces commonly found in O'Fallon.
How often should I get my alignment checked?
Alignment checks should be performed every 6,000 to 10,000 miles. More frequent checks might be required if you drive on rough roads, notice any alignment symptoms, or have recently had your suspension fixed. In O'Fallon, given the local road conditions, it is prudent to monitor these factors closely to maintain optimal vehicle performance and safety.
What can cause wheel misalignment?
Misalignment can result from hitting a curb or a pothole, worn out suspension components, or even after a minor accident. Regular driving over uneven surfaces can exacerbate alignment problems over time. Being proactive about checking your alignment is important, particularly in areas like O'Fallon, where roads might contribute to these issues.
What is a thrust angle alignment?
A thrust angle alignment ensures that the front wheels are aligned with the rear axle angle, the direction the rear wheels are pointing. This type of alignment is especially important for vehicles where all four wheels need to be precisely aligned to enhance performance and safety, which is relevant for the diverse road types found in O'Fallon.
Can misalignment affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, misalignment typically leads to more rolling resistance as your tires are not correctly oriented, which can force your engine to work harder and use more fuel to maintain speed. Keeping your alignment in check helps ensure your vehicle operates efficiently and can save money on fuel in the longer 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.