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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a standard alignment service take?
A professional four-wheel alignment typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. This timeframe allows our technicians to perform a comprehensive alignment check, make the necessary mechanical adjustments, and conduct a road test to verify the results. We value your time, so we strive to be efficient while never compromising on the precision required for a safe and effective repair.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Springfield, we offer a comfortable waiting area with free Wi-Fi so you can stay productive while we work. If you have a busy schedule, you can also take advantage of our complimentary local shuttle service. Our goal is to make your car alignment experience as convenient and stress-free as possible.
Will an alignment fix my steering wheel vibration?
While misalignment can cause a steering wheel to feel "loose" or off-center, a distinct vibration is often a sign of unbalanced tires or worn suspension components. However, during our alignment services, we perform a thorough inspection of the entire steering and suspension system. If we find that the vibration is caused by something other than the alignment, we will provide you with a clear explanation and a plan to fix it.
Properly aligned wheels ensure that your tires wear evenly, which prevents the secondary vibrations caused by "cupped" or "feathered" tread patterns. Restoring your car alignment is a critical step in eliminating vibrations and ensuring a smooth, quiet ride on Springfield’s highways.
Is it necessary to get an alignment when I buy new tires?
Yes, we strongly recommend a four-wheel alignment whenever you invest in a new set of tires. If your vehicle is misaligned, those brand-new tires will begin to wear unevenly from the very first mile, significantly shortening their lifespan. An alignment protects your investment and ensures you get the full mileage out of your new tires.
Think of an alignment as an insurance policy for your tires. By spending a little on alignment services now, you can avoid spending hundreds on a premature set of replacements later. It is the best way to ensure your vehicle handles safely and efficiently with its new rubber.
What is the difference between a front-end and a four-wheel alignment?
A front-end alignment only adjusts the wheels on the front axle, which was common for older vehicles with fixed rear axles. A four-wheel alignment, however, adjusts all four wheels to ensure they are perfectly parallel and perpendicular to the ground. Most modern cars, especially those with independent rear suspensions or all-wheel drive, require a full four-wheel service to handle correctly.
Our technicians will check your vehicle's specifications to determine the exact type of car alignment required. We use the most comprehensive method suited for your car to ensure that the steering, stability, and tire wear are all optimized for the roads in Springfield.
How often should drivers check their alignment?
As a general rule, you should have an alignment check every 6,000 miles or about every other oil change. However, if you frequently drive on rough roads or hit a significant pothole or curb, you should bring your vehicle in immediately. Regular checks help catch minor shifts before they cause permanent damage to your tires or suspension.
In Springfield, the changing seasons can be tough on your vehicle. Checking your vehicle alignment in the spring and fall is a great way to ensure your car is prepared for Missouri’s weather. Staying proactive with this service is the key to maintaining a safe and efficient vehicle year-round.
Ensure Your Vehicle is Ready for the Road
Proper wheel alignment is the cornerstone of vehicle safety and tire longevity. By choosing a team that understands the specific needs of Springfield drivers, you ensure that your car is prepared for the unique challenges of Missouri's roads.
Our ASE-certified technicians provide the precision and honesty required to keep your vehicle tracking straight and handling smoothly, helping you avoid costly repairs and unnecessary tire wear.
Your safety is our top priority, and we are dedicated to providing the highest quality alignment in Springfield. We combine state-of-the-art technology with a neighborly approach to ensure every guest feels confident in their vehicle's performance. Maintaining your car's geometry is an investment in your safety and your budget.
Secure your smooth ride by calling (417) 240-8801 or scheduling your car alignment service online.
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 had an ALTERNATOR problem right before i was supposed to leave town and mark and his team were able to get me in RIGHT away and get me back on the road within just a few hours. Their RESPONSIVENESS and professionalism was amazing and i would highly recom"
- Ryan H