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.
Why Regular Wheel Alignment Matters in Columbus
Staying consistent with wheel alignment checks can prevent issues beyond just tire wear. Properly aligned wheels not only extend the life of your tires but also improve fuel efficiency and driving comfort. Misalignment can cause your vehicle to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption and more frequent repairs.
Maintaining proper wheel alignment is essential in Columbus, where road conditions can vary with the seasons. Uneven pavement and potholes can knock your wheels out of alignment, increasing the risk of tire and suspension damage. At Christian Brothers Automotive Blendon Woods, we ensure your vehicle is prepared for local road conditions, enhancing performance and safety.
Furthermore, aligning your wheels regularly helps maintain optimal vehicle control, crucial for easily traversing Columbus's bustling roads. Misaligned wheels can lead to annoying vibrations and make handling more cumbersome, especially during sharp turns or on highway ramps.
Our Comprehensive Wheel Alignment Process
Our alignment process begins with a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. Our ASE-certified technicians use precise computerized measurements to determine the exact alignment of each wheel. This data allows us to adjust the angles—camber, caster, and toe—to match the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Camber: The angle of the wheels in relation to the road when viewed from the front. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear and handling issues.
- Caster: The angle of your steering axis when viewed from the side of your vehicle. It impacts straight-line stability and cornering balance.
- Toe: Refers to the direction in which the tires point in relation to each other. Proper toe alignment affects tire life and steering ability.
By meticulously carrying out these adjustments, we restore your vehicle’s balance and handling, improving efficiency and safety for your daily drives in Columbus.
Our process includes a detailed test drive conducted by our technicians to ensure the adjustment has translated well to a real-world driving scenario. We check for smooth transitions and handling across different speeds and surface conditions, ensuring that our clients' driving experience matches the standards promised.
Contact us at (380) 208-1683 or online for dependable car alignment services in Columbus.
Common Signs You Might Need a Wheel Alignment
Recognizing the symptoms of misalignment early can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Some common indicators include:
- Pulling to One Side: If your vehicle drifts to the left or right when driving on a straight road.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Noticeable wear patterns on the inside or outside edge of your tires, indicating misalignment.
- Off-Center Steering Wheel: Your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight, which could mean an alignment issue.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: Shaking or vibration that increases with speed, often a sign of misalignment or balance issues.
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact us immediately to schedule a diagnostic check. Addressing alignment issues sooner rather than later helps avoid further damage.
It's also important to note that frequent visits for other services like tire rotations or replacements provide an excellent opportunity to combine these services with an alignment check. This proactive approach ensures comprehensive care for your vehicle's performance and safety.
FAQs
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Q. "What is the difference between a wheel alignment and a wheel balance?"
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Q. "How often should I get a wheel alignment?"
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Q. "What causes bad alignment?"
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Q. "Do you offer a shuttle service?"
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"
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.