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.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment affects everything from fuel efficiency to tire longevity and vehicle handling. Here are some common indications that your vehicle may need alignment:
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side: If you notice your car drifting to the left or right without steering input, it may indicate misalignment.
- Unusual Tire Wear: Uneven wear patterns on your tires can suggest that the wheels are not aligned correctly.
- Steering Wheel Off-Center: When driving straight, if your steering wheel is not centered, it might be a result of misalignment.
Additionally, you might experience vibrations in the steering wheel while driving, which can indicate that the alignment is off. Such vibrations not only make driving uncomfortable but could also indicate that your tires are struggling to maintain proper contact with the road. This is why addressing alignment issues promptly is essential, as it prevents further mechanical problems and ensures safer driving conditions.
Benefits of Professional Wheel Alignment
Routine wheel alignment offers numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance, thereby improving gas mileage.
- Extended Tire Life: By ensuring that the tires wear evenly, you prolong their lifespan, saving on replacements.
- Improved Safety: Alignment affects handling ability, allowing you to drive safely even on Surprise's busiest roads.
- Optimal Vehicle Performance: Properly aligned wheels ensure that suspension and steering systems work correctly.
To schedule your wheel alignment in Surprise, AZ, today, call us at (623) 624-2889 or fill out our online form.
Our Wheel Alignment Process
At Christian Brothers Automotive Surprise, we ensure each alignment service is thorough:
- Inspection & Diagnosis: We start by checking the current alignment state of your vehicle using advanced equipment.
- Alignment Adjustment: Our technicians adjust camber, caster, and toe angles to ensure precise alignment.
- Final Check & Test Drive: After adjustments, a test drive ensures your car handles optimally, guaranteeing customer satisfaction.
Beyond the technical aspects, our customer-focused approach ensures you are informed throughout the alignment process. We explain each step and why it’s necessary, so you're empowered to make informed decisions about your vehicle's maintenance. By maintaining open communication, we strive to provide not only excellent mechanical services but also a transparent and trustworthy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wheel Alignment
What Exactly Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. Proper alignment ensures maximum contact with the road, correct handling, and minimized tire wear.
How Often Should I Get a Wheel Alignment?
Regular wheel alignments are recommended every 6,000 to 12,000 miles, or as specified by your vehicle manufacturer. Factors such as driving conditions and incidents like hitting a curb can necessitate more frequent checks.
Can Misalignment Cause Damage?
Yes, improper alignment can lead to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and a decrease in handling and safety. In the long run, it can cause additional strain on suspension components, leading to premature wear.
How Long Does a Wheel Alignment Take?
A standard wheel alignment service at Christian Brothers Automotive Surprise typically takes about one hour, but time can vary based on the specific needs of your vehicle and parts condition.
Is a Wheel Alignment Worth the Cost?
Absolutely. By preventing uneven tire wear and improving fuel efficiency, a wheel alignment can save significant expense over time. Moreover, it enhances safety and vehicle reliability, providing peace of mind for you and your passengers.
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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"From the very beginning, the team at Christian Brothers, has been very welcoming, friendly and willing to help. They are incomparable to other automotive competitors, due to their integrity and diligence with their customers. They’re always willing t"
- Amanda and Tracey