Tips on Wheel Alignment from a Complete Auto Care Service Facility

A wheel alignment is an important maintenance service that should be performed on a specific schedule. The complete auto care facility that you choose to handle this can help determine whether you are satisfied with the quality and customer service provided. There are a number of tips that can help you get the desired results from this type of maintenance and keep costs down.

Wheel Alignment is an Important Maintenance Service

Before you arrive for a wheel alignment a big mistake is to completely clean out the car. The facility chosen is a top consideration, and the weight and wear of the vehicle may be different in every case. The calibration schedule of the equipment used during this service should also be examined, because this ensures that the equipment is accurate and in the best condition possible. 

Weight and Wear are big Wheel Alignment Considerations 

If you need a wheel alignment it is important to understand that the typical weight carried and usual wear patterns are not the same between different vehicle years, makes, and models. The type and style of tire that is used can also have an impact on the way that the car handles and rides. If you notice that one tire or a certain area of this component is excessively worn this can indicate an alignment problem.

You may have quite a few items in your trunk and the passenger compartment of your vehicle. Some owners keep their car spotless, with few if any tools or other items found in the vehicle. Others may carry a considerable amount of extra weight. If this is all on one side or in one area then this could cause the wheels on that side to wear down faster. 

Do not empty the Car out before the Service Appointment 

Many people make the mistake of removing everything from their car before they have a wheel alignment. This can change the usual weight bearing aspects and could cause the results to be off once all of the removed items are replaced. Leave the spare tire and jack in the trunk, and take your car in with all of the usual items in place. The vehicle gas tank should also be at least half full. 

The Complete Auto Care Facility Used is a Critical Decision 

Before you choose a complete auto care facility to handle your vehicle maintenance tasks you should closely evaluate and compare each facility. Look at online reviews for customers who have had a wheel alignment at the facility. If numerous complaints or bad reviews are found then look elsewhere because this may indicate poor quality or inflated charges. 

Equipment Calibration is Key 

One of the most important aspects of any wheel alignment is the calibration of the equipment that is used. These items should be carefully calibrated on a regular basis. Some complete auto care facilities make this a top priority but others may not take this step as often as they should. Poor calibration could cause the vehicle to drive less than optimally even after this maintenance is completed.

This service may be recommended every 6,000-12,000 miles for most vehicles. Your tire pressure, typical terrain driven on, and normal driving conditions can also impact how well your car handles. 

What wheel alignment advice have you received from service technicians?

Tires Deals vs. Cheap Tires

 
Are cheap tires really deals? Every consumer should ask that question when shopping. Tires are key elements in how well a car performs and your fuel efficiency, whether driving a standard gas, diesel or hybrid vehicle. The goal is to buy quality for less, and cheap tires are not always necessarily good tire deals.

Know the Difference between Cheap Tires and Discounts

Research is your friend when it comes to tire shopping. Check the newspapers for special advertisements and also look online for good tire deals. When you get to the tire shop, ask questions and learn the difference between cheap tires and good tire deals. As a consumer it is your responsibility to make informed purchasing decisions.

What about Retreads?

Retreads certainly qualify as cheap tires, but they are not usually the best deal. Worn tires are re-manufactured to extend their service life. Basically, they are recycled and put back to use. This is a common practice in commercial sectors like trucking, transport and buses, but for the average consumer, looking for affordable tire deals is a better option.

Used Tires

Buying used tires is a buyer beware practice. It is possible to purchase a quality used tire, but you don’t know the history of what you’re getting. These tires can come off rental or leased cars and have significant miles on them. They may also be from a totaled vehicle. There is no way of knowing what trauma a tire sees before it hits the used tire rack. Due diligence is important for your safety.  The cost savings probably won’t outweigh the risks of driving on an unknown used tire.

Off Brand Tires

Off brand tires are a more practical solution than retreads or used. Off branding is the generic side of the tire industry. Manufacturers make these tires to complement their premiere brand name products. They may not be the same quality, but getting tire deals on off brands is a way to save especially if you buy from a dealer you trust.

Buy in Quantity

One of the most effective ways to save money on tires is to go through discount programs. For example, buying in quantity means you may get a discount on volume. If you are purchasing four tires at once or servicing more than one car at a time, be sure to inquire about discounts. It may be worth the extra upfront cost if you save per unit.

Repeat Business

In the service industry, repeat business matters. A tire store or mechanic will go out of his way to find you the best quality for less if it brings you back over and over. Develop a relationship with your garage or discount tire store. Once they get to know you and your vehicles, you can trust the auto shop to offer you the best tires deals available.

Looking for Tire Deals

Staying on top of weekly ads, tire coupons and businesses that offer discounts will save you money on tires. A proactive approach to purchasing gets you quality for less instead of cheap tires. Buy when the price is right, so you are never forced to pay more or settle for less.

The fact is, tire deals and cheap tires are not the same thing. Tires are the first line of safety when on the road and worth an investment, whether it is money or time.

 What is your tire buying process? How much time do you spend in finding the right deal?

Welcome to the new Tires, Wheels, Brakes Blogger

Welcome to the new Tires, Wheels, Brakes Blogger site. We're excited about posting tips, and information about tires, wheels, brakes, wheel alignment, oil changes, and more.