Bad alignment job?

Panzer909 · Panzer909's Garage

So I just dropped over $1200 into my bimmer to R&R several exhaust and suspension parts and a full inspection/emissions annual test. Had them replace the inner/outer tie rods on both sides - and of course a steering alignment. That was about two weeks ago and the car drove great.

So I go to work this morning and the car now has a noticable pull to the right. I'm certain I didn't whack any big bumps in the road or anything like that. Tire pressure is even on all four corners. WTF? Has anyone ever had this happen to them? How can I approach the shop and communicate this tactfully? I have NO idea how this can just suddenly and magically "happen".............

Razorback1980 · Razorback1980's Garage

I think you should just take the shop manager for a ride and let go of the wheel....if he knows anything about cars, he will know it's not right and should be glad to take a second look at it. Calm constructive communication usually works well. If not, then speak a different langauage...tell him you'll stop payment on the $1200 dollar check...he'll listen.

Eldorado · 06-20-2006, 03:01 PM

if he doesn't listen, keep him in the car, and floor it.. take him for a lil ride in the wobbly car... speed is key

Gear Dog · 06-21-2006, 04:44 AM

When I got mine done I paid for lifetime alignments. It came out to double of what I would have paid for a regular alignment. I figured as much as I mess with the car I'm bound to take it there more than once this summer.

Panzer909 · Panzer909's Garage

I'm calling them this morning and will be very upfront with them. Rather than coming out and accusing them of shoddy work, I'll kindly ask if we can put the car back on the machine to "confirm the specs" as I honestly think the car is not properly aligned. More to come here.

Again, the fact remains, though, that I just cannot understand how this happened in the first place, as it originally was fine. Maybe an eccentric shifted or something from not being torqued enough(?)

Dave L · 06-21-2006, 05:51 AM

I would put my money on something not being tightened down properly. It happens, the mechanics are busy and sometimes things slip.

I dont think you want to be confrontational, you just dropped quite abit of money into the shop. I would think they would want you happy and returning.

Eric 951 · 06-21-2006, 06:33 AM

Your BMW is punishing you. You should be driving the S.

Which shop did you use?

Panzer909 · Panzer909's Garage

Eric, you're right - that E30 is pummeling me at the moment. I didn't even get the AC charged yet! Do you know where I can take it without getting raped?

I took it to German Motor Werks in the Strip. I've had a good history with them so far, but lately their stock is dropping with me. The killer is that a lot of the issues the iX needed I could have done myself - but this day job's hours are brutal.

I swear the "S" is punishing me for keeping it tucked away in the garage & hardly ever driving it anymore. The horn stopped working last week, there was that engine knock issue, a nasty balance shaft seal leak, needs belts changed yesterday, and also a weird rear suspension "issue" that you'll hear about later.

Somebody help me.

Eric 951 · 06-21-2006, 07:50 AM

John,

I am sure GMW will reinvestigate the alignment. The AC charge you can do yourself. If the car wasn't converted to 134a, you can use freeze 12 which is a freon substitue. The insturctions are straight forward, you just want to be certain youa r kooing up to the correct line so the can doesn't blow up in your hand like a grenade--other than that--no worries