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 That Your Vehicle Needs a Wheel Alignment Service in Birmingham
Not sure if you need a wheel alignment? Look for these common signs:
- Pulling to One Side: If your car drifts to the left or right on a straight road, it's a clear indicator of misalignment.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Check your tires for uneven tread; this may suggest poor alignment.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: A shaky steering wheel could mean that your wheels are not properly aligned.
- Off-Center Steering Wheel: When driving straight, your steering wheel should remain centered; if not, realignment may be necessary.
Identifying these signs early can prevent further damage to your vehicle. If ignored, misalignment can lead to premature suspension wear and increased friction on your axles, putting additional strain on your car's mechanics. At Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park, we recommend scheduling routine alignment checks to catch these issues before they escalate. Our proactive approach to maintenance helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your vehicle's components.
Why Choose Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park for Your Wheel Alignment in Birmingham?
Our approach at Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park is founded on transparency, integrity, and superior customer care. We distinguish ourselves with the following:
- ASE-Certified Technicians: Our team possesses the skills necessary to conduct precise alignments.
- Latest Alignment Technologies: We use advanced technology to restore alignment with manufacturer-quality standards.
- Community-Oriented Values: Guided by the principle of treating customers like neighbors, we provide a welcoming experience.
- Convenient Services: Take advantage of our complimentary shuttle services, making the process seamless for you.
Choosing Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park means opting for reliability and peace of mind. We understand that car maintenance can be daunting, and transparency is key to building trust with our clients. Our technicians take the time to explain the alignment process and its benefits in straightforward language, assuring you of our commitment to honesty and clarity. We also provide a detailed report after servicing your vehicle, so you leave our shop with a comprehensive understanding of your car's condition and our actionable recommendations.
Call us at (205) 839-1455 to schedule your wheel alignment service in Birmingham. Together, let’s keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently.
Common Birmingham Wheel Alignment Challenges
Driving around Birmingham includes navigating the challenges of diverse road conditions, from smooth highways to uneven local streets. Roads like the busy U.S. Route 280 or the challenging crest of Red Mountain Expressway can take a toll on your vehicle's alignment. Regularly checking your wheel alignment at Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park ensures that you remain safe while cruising through the city, combating the wear and tear brought on by local travel conditions.
Birmingham's unique climate further compounds these alignment challenges. The city experiences a mix of heavy rainfall and hot summers, which can deteriorate road surfaces and create hazards like potholes. These conditions increase the likelihood of misalignment, underscoring the importance of regular checks. Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park provides services with a keen understanding of these local factors, tailoring our approach to meet Birmingham drivers' specific needs and help maintain smooth and safe vehicular operation.
FAQs About Wheel Alignment
How Often Should I Check My Vehicle's Wheel Alignment?
It's recommended to have your wheel alignment checked every one to two years or whenever you notice symptoms such as drifting or uneven tire wear. Alignments may also be necessary after significant impacts or adjustments to your suspension system. Our team can help determine the ideal interval for your vehicle based on your driving habits in Birmingham.
What Are the Benefits of Correct Wheel Alignment?
Correct wheel alignment offers several benefits, including improved fuel efficiency, extended tire life, and enhanced handling and vehicle safety. Proper alignment ensures your tires make even contact with the road, minimizing resistance and maximizing performance. This results in not only a smoother drive but also savings on fuel and fewer replacements of prematurely worn tires.
Can Misalignment Affect My Vehicle's Safety?
Yes, misalignment can significantly affect your vehicle's safety. It can cause unpredictable steering and handling issues, which may become severe under certain driving conditions. At Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park, we ensure that your vehicle's alignment is precisely adjusted to prevent hazardous driving situations and maintain road safety, especially in varied Birmingham environments.
What Distinguishes Thrust Angle Alignment from Other Types?
Thrust angle alignment focuses on ensuring that all four wheels are square with each other. This type of alignment considers the position of the rear tires relative to the centerline of the front tires. It is crucial for vehicles where the rear alignment affects front-wheel handling. Our Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park team can advise on whether this specific service is necessary for your vehicle.
How Do Changing Seasons in Birmingham Impact Wheel Alignment?
Seasonal changes can impact your vehicle's alignment due to varying road conditions like potholes formed during cold winters or the summer heat affecting asphalt. These factors can misalign wheels, necessitating checks and potential adjustments. Regular alignments at Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park help mitigate seasonal impacts, ensuring your vehicle performs well year-round.
Contact Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park Today for Expert Wheel Alignment Services in Birmingham
Are you experiencing signs of wheel misalignment? Don’t wait until it affects your safety and your vehicle’s performance. At Christian Brothers Automotive Tattersall Park, our team is dedicated to providing precise and reliable wheel alignment services tailored specifically for Birmingham drivers. Schedule your appointment with us today, and enjoy the smooth and stable drive you deserve.
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 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.