Alignment (why do it?)

If you're driving around Virginia Beach and notice your car pulling to one side or your steering wheel feels off-center, it might be time for a wheel alignment. At 17th Street Automotive, your trusted car and truck repair facility in Virginia Beach, we specialize in comprehensive alignment services for all makes and models, including AWD systems and European vehicles. Here's a detailed guide on what alignments entail and why they're crucial for your vehicle's health.

1. Front-End Alignment:

Adjusts the angles of the front wheels to ensure they are parallel and perpendicular to the ground.

2. Thrust Alignment:

Used for vehicles with solid rear axles. It aligns the front wheels with the rear axle to ensure the vehicle drives straight.

3. Four-Wheel Alignment:

Necessary for AWD vehicles and those with independent rear suspension. Adjusts all four wheels.

Curb Hits

Potholes

Minor or Major Accidents

Front-End Component Wear (e.g., loose tie rods, worn ball joints)

Tire Replacements

Steering System Looseness

These impacts and issues can affect the toe, camber, and caster angles of your wheels, leading to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency.

Camber: Tilt of the wheel inward or outward

Toe: Angle of the tires inward or outward when viewed from above

Caster: Steering pivot angle that affects stability

Laser and camera-based alignment machines

European specialty tools for brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes

Full fuel load, driver weight, and cargo simulation tools

ADAS calibration equipment

Software for EVs and advanced AI-assisted vehicles

Special Considerations for AWD and EVs

AWD systems require all four wheels to be aligned precisely to avoid drivetrain stress. EVs often need software updates and may require recalibration of sensors involved in their ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems).

Modern vehicles are equipped with ADAS features like lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance. After an alignment, recalibration ensures these systems function safely and accurately.

Even a minor misalignment can throw off camera and radar positioning, making systems like lane departure warnings ineffective.

Vehicles in coastal areas like Virginia Beach are more prone to rust. Corroded suspension bolts and components can make alignments more difficult and time-consuming, potentially increasing labor costs.

Every 6,000 to 10,000 miles

After replacing tires or suspension components

After an accident or hitting a pothole

If you notice uneven tire wear or drifting

Most dealerships and automotive experts recommend checking alignment annually as part of your preventative maintenance routine.

Front-End Alignment: $165

Four-Wheel Alignment: $165-255

ADAS Calibration (if needed): $300-600

Rust-Related Labor Add-ons: $185/hr (depends on severity)

Trust 17th Street Automotive for Your Alignment Needs