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.
Recognizing Signs of Misalignment
It’s important to recognize signs of misalignment, such as the vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or steering wheel vibration. These symptoms not only impact driving enjoyment but can lead to significant tire and suspension damage if unaddressed.
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. In a city like Houston, with its frequent stops, starts, and uneven pavement, regular alignment checks are crucial for maintaining vehicle performance.
Our Advanced Alignment Services
We offer a range of alignment services tailored to meet your vehicle’s unique needs.
We can help you with:
- Basic Alignment Check: Evaluate your vehicle’s current alignment.
- Front-End & Four-Wheel Alignments: Comprehensive checks for optimal vehicle stability.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Corrects rear axle alignment for smoother rides.
Our technicians are trained to handle a wide range of vehicle makes and models, ensuring that each alignment type is performed with precision. Using the latest technology, we not only assess but also correct alignment issues, ensuring your vehicle performs efficiently, regardless of Houston's challenging roads.
Why Choose Us?
Our commitment to transparency, integrity, and customer care sets us apart. We prioritize educating our customers and using manufacturer-quality equipment to ensure your satisfaction. With on-site owner/operators and complimentary shuttle services, we make the repair process stress-free. Our customer-first philosophy means no maintenance procedure is undertaken without your understanding and approval, making automotive care a beneficial and informative experience.
We are more than just a service provider; we're your partner in maintaining a safe and efficient journey on the roads of Houston.
Contact us at (281) 784-3397 or online to book your car alignment in Houston and experience an unmatched level of automotive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Wheels to Become Misaligned?
Wheels can become misaligned due to various factors, including hitting potholes or curbs, regular wear and tear, or suspension-part wear. Houston’s bustling roads often contribute to these issues.
Regular maintenance can help detect alignment problems early, preventing further vehicular damage. Each misalignment occurrence can reduce tire life and lead to costly replacements if ignored.
How Often Should Wheel Alignment Checks Be Done?
Typically, wheel alignment should be checked annually or whenever signs of misalignment are noticed. With frequent road construction and varying terrains in Houston, more regular checks may be beneficial.
Consider scheduling these checks during routine vehicle inspections or tire changes for a comprehensive approach to vehicle maintenance.
Can Misalignment Affect My Fuel Efficiency?
Yes, misalignment can lead to increased rolling resistance, causing your vehicle to use more fuel. A properly aligned vehicle moves more efficiently, supporting better fuel economy and saving on fuel costs.
This efficiency is vital given fluctuating fuel prices and long commutes common in Houston. Ensuring proper alignment not only cuts costs but also aligns with eco-friendly driving practices by reducing unnecessary fuel consumption.
What Does a Wheel Alignment Service Involve?
Our wheel alignment service includes adjusting the angles of wheels to the car manufacturer's original specifications. This is achieved through state-of-the-art equipment and professional techniques, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.
During the service, we also inspect and adjust other components such as the suspension and steering, which might affect or be affected by the wheel's alignment, ensuring holistic vehicle safety and performance.
What Are the Risks of Ignoring Misalignment?
Ignoring misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and compromised handling, posing a risk of greater damage. Addressing it promptly can preserve vehicle longevity and ensure safe driving.
These risks extend to your safety and that of other road users. Steering issues might cause accidents under poor road conditions, such as Houston's sudden downpours. Regular checks significantly mitigate these risks.
Call (281) 784-3397 or reach out online to schedule a tire alignment service to ensure safety and extend the life of your tires.
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.