Do dealers have the better machines for alignment than other shops?

 

not necessarily... go hokies!! lol

 

A proper alignment is more dependent on the tech than the machines they use. In fact, there are several road racers in the NOVA area that still use the DIY string and chalkline setups.

 

I agree.. its really up to the tech? A good tech can do a good job if he worked at Pep Boys?? However, why would a good tech work at Pep Boys?

 

Wow..I never knew the "lifetime" alignments were this popular. It's funny cause I just bought the lifetime alightment a couple weeks ago. I personally think it's worth it, cause I take my care to firestone to get my tires rotated every 5k miles so I can get my alignment done anytime I go there. I figured if I get two alignments done, I'll have recouped the price I paid so it's definitely worth it. (In addition, I paid a fair price for my Bridgestone Alenza's so you might as well ensure your alignment is done to ensure they wear out evenly.

 

As previously mentioned, an alignment is only as good as the person doing it. Whatever you do, just make sure you get a before and after printout. Many shops view an alignment as a front toe adjustment and nothing more.