How to find the best wheel alignment machine for your shop

OBD2 Interface

An increasing number of modern vehicles have advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These systems can be impacted by mechanical wheel alignment adjustments. Does the aligner you are considering allow you to meet these safety requirements?

Vehicle Protection

Does the equipment protect the wheel and rest of the vehicle from damage? Can it handle the range of vehicles you will see in your facility?

Vehicle-Specific Procedures

Vehicle manufacturers have set specific alignment specifications for every vehicle. Ensure the aligner you choose knows what adjustments are available and guide the technician through the correct procedure for alignment adjustments.

Training Assistance

Even the most experienced technician may see unfamiliar vehicles at times. Knowing what adjustments are available and how to use them can save valuable time.

Software

Measuring camber, caster, & toe are important, but does the wheel alignment equipment you are considering feature any software tools to make common adjustments easier?

Efficiency

You only get paid for the wheel alignments you complete. While wheel aligners are designed to complete the job, some do it more efficiently than others. Consider time to complete an alignment and how that'll impact your bottom line.

Vehicle Manufacturer Approval

In the equipment world, vehicle manufacturers test equipment to ensure it is capable of measuring vehicles to the appropriate level of accuracy. Has the equipment been tested and approved by any third party, such as the vehicle manufacturers?

Service Support

Make sure the manufacturer supports their products in the field with a team of reliable service representatives.

ROI

Many times, a wheel alignment machine is the most expensive piece of equipment a shop purchases, but it can also have one of the fastest returns on investment. Consider the true time of return on investment that can be affected by many of the factors above.