Part 2: The Alignment Machine Myth – Why The Right Experience Matters
This is Part 2 of our 6-part series: Wheel Alignment Myths & Mistakes That Cost You Thousands. In this series, we expose the most common traps vehicle owners fall into when it comes to wheel alignments - and how to protect yourself with the right questions.
It Takes More Than a Good Alignment Machine to do a Great Wheel Alignment.
Yes - dealerships, general repair shops, and tire chains all have alignment machines. But here’s the truth most won’t admit: an alignment machine doesn’t make alignment decisions - an expereinced and skilled technician does. And that’s where Spring Works separates from the pack.
Wheel alignment is only as good as the person behind the machine. Without deep knowledge of steering geometry, suspension dynamics, and real-world alignment experience, the results are just numbers on a screen. At Spring Works, every alignment is performed by a seasoned expert - not someone learning on your vehicle - not someone that just finished up a weekend or video training.
At Spring Works, we have a shiny new alignment machine AND our techs have over 10 years of suspension and steering expertise, ASE certifications, and formal auto school training that can take up to two years to complete. Even our most junior technician has performed over 10,000 precision alignments. That kind of experience can’t be rushed - and it can’t be matched by a quick couple day course or video training.
Why Experience Matters More Than Equipment
Wheel alignment is not a plug-and-play service. It’s a precision adjustment based on a full understanding of your vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. That knowledge doesn’t come from an app on a screen - It comes from years of performing precision alignments and a deep understanding of suspension and steering systems.
- Undertrained techs often miss key suspension or steering issues that affect alignment accuracy.
- Critical angles like caster, thrust, and SAI are often skipped or misread.
- Machine settings must be interpreted and adjusted by someone who understands what they’re seeing.
The Hidden Cost of Inexperience
When alignment is done wrong, you pay for it in uneven tire wear, poor handling, and constant re-alignments. In the worst cases, skipping a suspension and steering inspection can lead to unsafe handling issues and safety risks on the road.
- Tire replacement costs can soar due to preventable wear.
- Fuel efficiency drops from improper wheel alignment angles.
- Steering response suffers, affecting safety and driver control.
3 Questions You Should Always Ask Before a Wheel Alignment
Most drivers never question what’s being done during an alignment—but you should. Here's how to make sure you’re getting more than just a quick “toe-and-go”:
- Do you test drive my vehicle before and after the alignment?
- Do perform a comprehensive suspension and steering inspection before aligning?
- Will you provide me with a digital inspection report of the inspection?
- Which alignment angles do you measure—just toe and camber, or also caster, thrust angle, and SAI?
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How much hands-on experience and education does the technician performing my alignment have?
At Spring Works, we answer confidently: Yes, All Angles, Test Drive, You will Receive a Digital Inspection Report, and Over a Decade to 3 Decades of experience . We perform a comprehensive digital suspension and steering inspection on every vehicle before we make a single adjustment. Because we know alignment isn’t just about the machine - it’s about the Technician behind it. Get It Done Right - Schedule An Appointment Today.
