As an automotive expert with years of experience in the field, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the time it takes to get a wheel alignment.

Wheel alignment, also known as tracking, is a critical maintenance procedure for your vehicle. It ensures that the wheels are set to the manufacturer's specifications, which can help improve handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency. The process involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground.

The time it takes to complete a wheel alignment can vary depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the condition of the suspension components, and the specific alignment equipment used. However, I can offer a general overview based on common scenarios.

Step 1: Inspection and Preparation
Before the alignment process begins, a thorough inspection of the vehicle is necessary. This includes checking for any visible damage or wear that could affect the alignment. The technician will also ensure that the vehicle is clean and free of any debris that could interfere with the alignment process. This step typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 2: Measuring and Adjusting
Once the vehicle is ready, the technician will use specialized equipment to measure the alignment angles. These angles include camber, caster, toe, and sometimes thrust angle. The equipment will compare the current angles to the manufacturer's specifications and indicate which adjustments need to be made. The actual adjustment process can vary in time, but it generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the adjustments and the experience of the technician.

Step 3: Re-measurement and Fine-Tuning
After the initial adjustments, the technician will re-measure the angles to ensure they are within the correct specifications. If necessary, further fine-tuning will be done. This step is crucial to ensure that the alignment is accurate and that the vehicle will perform optimally. The re-measurement and fine-tuning process can take an additional 10 to 20 minutes.

Step 4: Road Test
In some cases, after the alignment is complete, a road test may be conducted to confirm that the vehicle handles correctly and that the alignment has been successful. This step is not always necessary but can provide peace of mind for both the technician and the vehicle owner. A road test typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes.

In summary, a wheel alignment can take anywhere from 40 to 90 minutes, on average, assuming no crash damage and with the right equipment and a ramp. However, it's important to note that this is a general estimate, and the actual time may vary based on the specific circumstances of the vehicle and the alignment shop.

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Assuming no crash damage, about 20 minutes to half an hour with the right equipment and a ramp. It takes almost as long to fit the laser kit to the wheels as it does to crack off the track control ends and adjust so everything is to manufacturers spec and equal on both sides!read more >>