2019 N Central Street Knoxville, TN (865) 546-4454
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question you would like answered or included in our FAQ list, please e-mail us at alignmentpros@gmail.com, we will be glad to answer your question too.
Q: How often should you have your vehicle's alignment checked?
A: A vehicle's alignment should be checked approximately once a year or an average of every 15,000 - 20,000 miles providing the vehicle is not showing symptoms of alignment problems such as tire wear, pulling or an off-centered steering wheel.
Q: What are some symptoms of an alignment problem?
A: Tire wear is the most obvious symptom of an alignment problem, although inside tire wear can be very difficult to detect, which is why it is important to have your tires rotated every 3,000 - 5,000 miles so any problems may be detected in time. Some vehicle will also begin to pull left or right when the alignment needs to be adjusted. Finally, if you have hit a pot hole, speed bump or other road hazard and you notice a change in the steering wheel being centered or the driving conditions of the vehicle, you should have your alignment checked immediately.
Q: What does having my car aligned include?
A: A thorough alignment will include inspection of all applicable suspension parts including tie rod ends, balljoints, CV axles, idler arm, control arm, shock, struts, rack n' pinion, motor mounts, etc. This process will indicate any worn parts that are contributing to tire wear and ensure safe handling and operation of the vehicle.
Q: I have a vibration at high speeds, does this mean I need an alignment?
A: In general a vibration that presents itself in the acceleration mode indicates a tire balance problem. In some cases a vibration could also be caused by worn tires, which would then indicate an alignment issue. It is a good idea to have tires balanced and rotated every 3,000 - 5,000 miles to ensure even tire wear. In addition the alignment should be checked at least once per year or approximately every 15,000-20,000 miles to ensure proper tire wear and safe handling.
Q: How long does it take to have an alignment done?
A: We work primarily by appointment M-F 8-4 pm. or you can also drop a vehicle off and we can work it in between the scheduled appointments and call you when it is ready. If you have an appointment scheduled, an alignment takes less than one hour to complete, which is the quickest way to get service.
Q: Is there any warranty on your work?
A: Yes, we provide a 90 day warranty on all our service and the parts we install carry
manufacturer's warranties ranging from 1 year to a limited lifetime warranty.
This specific information will be furnished upon request.
Q: Do you charge to check a vehicle if it doesn't need to be aligned?
A: Yes, we charge a $15.00 (+ tax) inspection fee if a vehicle does not need an alignment or if it needs more extensive work than just an alignment (i.e., parts replacement). In the case of additional work, we will provide a complete diagnosis and written estimate and will credit the inspection fee costs toward the estimate amount in the event that you have us perform the estimated service in the future. The reason we charge an inspection fee is so that we can cover the cost of our technician's salary. We WILL NOT charge you for an alignment when your vehicle does not need it, which saves you money in the end because we DO NOT charge for work that is NOT needed.
Q: Will you provide my old parts to ensure proof that the work estimated is being
completed?
A: Yes, we will be glad to make your old parts available to you upon completion of the
job, per your request. We will also be glad to show you the worn or damaged parts
BEFORE we replace them during our diagnosis and estimate process, if you would
like to see them for yourself.
Q: I have my own parts, how much would you charge to install them?
A: We do not install customer parts because we cannot provide a warranty with our work. Years of experience has proven that customers are much happier when we can stand behind the product we sell and the service we provide. In the end, when a defect or problem occurs our customers are much more satisfied if we can correct the problem at no additional charge, rather than incurring additional expense.