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.
Types of Wheel Alignment Services We Offer in Highlands Ranch
We offer a variety of wheel alignment services tailored to your needs:
- Front-End Alignment: Essential for maintaining steering accuracy and reducing tire wear on the vehicle's front wheels.
- Four-Wheel Alignment: Necessary for all-wheel-drive vehicles to ensure that all wheels are aligned properly with the vehicle's centerline.
- Thrust Angle Alignment: Helps in aligning the rear wheels with the front ones for optimal handling and stability.
Each type of alignment is suited for different vehicle setups and driving conditions. Front-end alignment is typically used for vehicles with a solid rear axle, while four-wheel alignment is ideal for cars with independent rear suspensions, including those with adjustable rear axles. Thrust angle alignment examines the direction in which the rear wheels are pointing relative to the centerline of the vehicle, ensuring all four wheels are square with one another and pointing straight ahead. This is particularly important for newer vehicles or those with damaged suspension systems.
To learn more about our Highlands Ranch alignment services, call us at (720) 466-7304 or fill out our online contact form today!
Our Commitment to Customer Care & Transparency
At Christian Brothers Automotive Highlands Ranch, we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer satisfaction. Here’s why locals trust us with their wheel alignment needs:
- Honest Communication: We explain your vehicle's needs in clear terms, ensuring you understand each service recommendation.
- Convenient Services: Enjoy our complimentary shuttle service to keep your day seamless while we care for your car.
- Confidence & Peace of Mind: Our industry-leading warranty reflects our dedication to quality-driven results.
We believe in treating our customers with the respect and transparency we would want in their position. Our team is not just about fixing cars; it’s about building lasting relationships through trustworthy service and informed decision-making. From the moment you enter our shop, you can expect a welcoming environment where your questions are encouraged and your needs are prioritized.
FAQs About Wheel Alignment in Highlands Ranch
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
In general, it’s recommended to have a wheel alignment every 6,000 to 10,000 miles or as specified by your vehicle's manufacturer. For drivers in Highlands Ranch, who frequently navigate regions with variable road conditions, it's advisable to adhere closely to this schedule. If you frequently drive on rough roads or have had a recent impact with a curb or pothole, consider scheduling an alignment check sooner.
Regular alignments not only optimize your vehicle’s performance but can also prevent more serious issues that arise from prolonged misalignment, such as excessive tire wear and strain on your vehicle's suspension components. Being proactive about alignment checks can save you from costly repairs and ensure your ride remains smooth.
What Are the Signs of Misaligned Wheels?
Common signs include your vehicle pulling to one side, uneven or rapid tire wear, a vibrating steering wheel, or a steering wheel that is off-center when driving straight. If you experience any of these, it’s best to have an alignment check performed promptly.
In addition to these symptoms, irregular tire wear patterns such as feathering or scalloping can indicate deeper alignment or suspension issues, necessitating an assessment from professional technicians who can diagnose and correct the root cause efficiently.
Can I Perform a Wheel Alignment Myself?
Wheel alignment requires precise calibration and specialized equipment that typically can't be substituted with DIY methods. Professional services ensure accuracy that meets manufacturer standards, safeguarding your investment and safety.
Attempting to perform an alignment without the appropriate tools and expertise can result in more harm than good, leading to further misalignment or damage. Relying on certified technicians ensures that adjustments are made accurately, maximizing vehicle safety and tire life.
Why Is My Car Still Pulling After an Alignment?
If your car continues to pull to one side after an alignment service, there could be another issue at play such as tire inflation imbalance, worn suspension parts, or uneven tire wear that might need addressing.
Investigating the entire suspension system and tire condition is crucial in such cases. Our technicians can delve into these aspects to identify overlooked causes, ensuring your alignment returns to optimal status without further complications.
How Does Climate Affect Wheel Alignment in Highlands Ranch?
Highlands Ranch experiences varying climate conditions which can lead to thermal expansion and contraction of tire rubber, affecting alignment. Regular checks ensure that your vehicle remains aligned despite seasonal changes, enhancing performance and safety.
Severe weather, such as icy roads, can lead to sudden impacts from slipping or sliding, further affecting wheel alignment. Our preventative alignment services help adjust and recalibrate your vehicle, making it resilient to the local climate’s influence on road performance.
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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"Yesterday was my first visit to Christian Brothers. Will, the Service Writer, extended his hand to shake mine. He greeted me in a warm, friendly manner. His demeanor extended to taking my information in a knowledgeable, efficient way. He took time to know "
- Frank