Will any alignment shop do the job correctly?

[MrBrady]

Just got new tires and noticed the old tires on the driver's side (F&R) were relatively healthy on the outside, but down to the cords on the inside. I had the car looked at and they said all the suspension components look ok and said only an alignment was needed, which they don't do.

Can I take this car to any alignment shop and get the job done or does it need to have specific tools like at the dealer? Hoping to get it done for under $100, but in the Bay Area that may be a challenge.

 

[joegr]

Yes, almost any shop can do it, though you want to try and pick a good one.
No, < $100 is not realistic for a four-wheel alignment.

 

[EdP]

Just got new tires and noticed the old tires on the driver's side (F&R) were relatively healthy on the outside, but down to the cords on the inside. I had the car looked at and they said all the suspension components look ok and said only an alignment was needed, which they don't do.

Can I take this car to any alignment shop and get the job done or does it need to have specific tools like at the dealer? Hoping to get it done for under $100, but in the Bay Area that may be a challenge.

Any reputable shop can do it. Ask around a bit. Like any business, there may be one that could not do your kid's tricycle but others that would be spot on for any car.

 

[MrBrady]

Yes, almost any shop can do it, though you want to try and pick a good one.
No, < $100 is not realistic for a four-wheel alignment.

What’s the going rate for a four wheel alignment? I see Firestone/Wheel Works offers a “lifetime” alignment where I can get one every 6 months. Looks like that runs ~$180.

 

[joegr]

... I see Firestone/Wheel Works offers a “lifetime” alignment where I can get one every 6 months. Looks like that runs ~$180.

I have purchased those in the past, but I found that the results were highly variable depending on which Firestone and who was working that day. If you find a good one with good alignment guys, you will do well, and it will be well worth it.

Per alignment, it runs from $100 to $150 here. I would assume that it is higher where you are.

 

[pulsar]

Some shops tend to run alignment specials too. Seen 4 wheel alignment for $99.00 at non-franchise independent type of shops. Goodyear or Firestone will be higher. I’ve watched technicians do an alignment and the good ones make sure the wheels are at a relaxed state on the plates, they roll the car back and forth slightly while on the machine to get the suspension relaxed and they also should check air pressure is correct too. If tires are already wearing abnormal I’ve had some places recommend getting new tire first for a more accurate alignment. I’ve also had places screw up an alignment right before a family vacation only to find out upon return two back tires have been trashed. Should have known the bozo did not know what he was doing for he kept jacking with the rear alignment of my Buick Enclave a the time with the eccentric adjustment nuts for he had no clue how to properly set them. Had that job corrected at the Buick dealer. Paying more is no guarantee though. The Hunter alignment machines pretty much hold the technicians hand on what and how to proceed, but sometimes you just can’t take stupid out of stupid.