dtownkennel

Just wondering if anyone gets their alignment done anywhere else besides the dealership...mine wants 200+ (which was 2 weeks after I bought the car) and says it shouldnt be done anywhere else bc other shops dont use the same computers use at MB.

lkchris

Why do you need alignment?

Have you had an accident?

Unless you have or your car is pretty old and some parts have worn out, there's no need for alignment.

Yes, do it at a Mercedes dealer.

toothdr

umm?? because alignments are a lot cheaper than a set of tires.

railroad tracks and pot holes come to mind

dtownkennel

Wifey hit a pot hole and got it off wack...been getting worse the longer we leave it so I guess I gotta bite the bullet and bring it in. Thanks guys

lkchris

These things DO NOT change alignment.

Alignment DOES NOT change from "everyday" driving.

Alignment only changes from serious accidents, age-related wear.

It is IMPOSSIBLE to fix an out-of-alignment situation without replacing parts. Nothing just "moves" out of alignment. It's either bent, broken, or worn out. There is NO adjustment for bent.

How's it feel to have been "scammed" all these years?

joegrecoant

sort of a side-track question, how does alignment works with ML that are equipped with airmatic?

do they set the spec at the lowest level or the highest? Or both are within a reasonable range?

am_beagle

I always appreciate your advices, but how about camber adjustments and alignment things people do on other car brands ? Is Mercedes different ? Potholes made my steering wheel off-centered, what should I do ?

Vernl

If its been damaged that bad ...forget about all these arm chair mechanics who havent seen your vehicle...and get in to the dealer before more driving wears other parts

dgiturbo

Good question. Set a normal level I was told. The raised height is just a couple of inches, and the lowered height is less than an inch. I cant remember driving more that 25 MPH or for amy lenght of time with it raised anyways, as I usually only raise it to clear snow banks.

dtownkennel, was told by a dealer that MB is the best place for alignment. (4matic system, type of alignment used etc.)
Tried an indie for a 4 wheel alingment, and had to take it to the dealer a few days later to redo. Will only use MB dealer for that from now on.

dtownkennel

All I know is she hit a pothole and if we drive without holding the steeringwheel the car veers towards the right...its been a couple of weeks and seems to be getting worst...car is brand new 09 no accidents what so ever rims not a scratch...

lkchris

What you've described is an "accident."

Check also for wheel damage and perhaps tire damage as well.