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.
Understanding the Importance of Wheel Alignment in Grand Rapids
Proper wheel alignment is essential for maintaining vehicle control and safety. Misalignment can occur from everyday hazards such as potholes, curbs, or even regular wear and tear. Here in Grand Rapids, where road conditions can vary drastically with the changing seasons, maintaining your vehicle's alignment is crucial to optimal vehicle performance.
Alignment adjustments are critical to balancing the vehicle's weight distribution across its axles. This balance leads to smoother turns and reduces the risk of accidents caused by steering difficulties. Regularly scheduled wheel alignments also ensure that your vehicle's suspension system remains intact, providing a comfortable ride no matter the road conditions.
Key benefits of regular wheel alignment include:
- Enhanced Safety: Ensure your vehicle handles correctly, especially in emergency maneuvers.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Correct wheel alignment reduces resistance on your tires, improving fuel economy.
- Extended Tire Lifespan: Proper alignment prevents uneven tire wear, saving you money in the long run.
To learn more about how our Grand Rapids wheel alignment services can improve the performance and safety of your vehicle, call us at (616) 739-6125 or contact us online.
Why Choose Us for Your Wheel Alignment in Grand Rapids?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we differentiate ourselves with our commitment to transparency and customer education. We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about their vehicle's condition without technical jargon. This dedication to clear communication ensures you're making informed decisions about your vehicle maintenance.
Additionally, our customer-first approach means we’re always looking for ways to enhance your experience. Our waiting area offers a comfortable and calming environment, and our friendly staff is always willing to explain services and answer any questions you may have. By placing your trust in us, you’re choosing a partner committed to keeping your vehicle safe and performing optimally.
Our Service Highlights:
- ASE-Certified Technicians: Our skilled team is experienced in handling all makes and models.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We use the latest alignment equipment to guarantee precision.
- Convenience & Comfort: Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with owner/operators on-site for accountability.
- Complimentary Shuttle Services: We prioritize your time by offering rides to minimize disruptions to your day.
FAQs About Wheel Alignment
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
It's generally recommended to have your wheel alignment checked every 6,000 miles or as advised by your vehicle manufacturer. If you frequently travel on rough roads, you may need alignments more often. Regular wheel alignment not only improves your driving experience but also prevents costly tire replacements.
In Grand Rapids, where road conditions can rapidly change due to weather, it's particularly important to monitor your vehicle’s alignment more frequently. Even minor drifts or pulls should prompt a check to ensure safety and optimal vehicle performance.
What Are the Signs That My Car Needs an Alignment?
Be alert for signs such as your car pulling to one side, uneven or rapid tire wear, or a vibrating steering wheel. These symptoms suggest misalignment and should be checked by a professional to ensure safe driving conditions.
Other indicators include if your steering wheel is off-center when driving straight or if you experience difficulty in steering more profoundly when navigating curves or turns. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage to your vehicle's suspension system.
Can Bad Alignment Affect Fuel Economy?
Yes, improper alignment increases rolling resistance on your tires, causing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Aligning your wheels as per manufacturer specifications can lead to noticeable improvements in your vehicle's fuel economy.
Given the current emphasis on fuel efficiency and reducing emissions, regular wheel alignment not only saves money but also supports environmental sustainability by optimizing fuel usage and performance.
Will an Alignment Fix Uneven Tire Wear?
While a proper alignment can prevent future uneven tire wear, existing damage might not be reversed. It's crucial to schedule routine wheel alignments to maintain adequate tire contact with the road, ensuring uniform wear over time.
In instances of severe tire wear, it may be advised to replace the tires to avoid compromised safety and driving performance. Pairing new tires with a fresh alignment ensures maximum return on investment.
How Long Does a Wheel Alignment Take?
A standard wheel alignment typically takes about an hour, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. At Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids, we strive for efficiency, so you can get back on the road with minimal disruption to your day.
Our team communicates with you throughout the process and provides insights into alignment results, helping you understand the impact on your vehicle’s well-being.
FAQs
-
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.
-
Q. "How often should I get a wheel alignment?"We recommend every 6,000 miles or when you experience signs of misalignment.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
"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.