So this past week i've been shopping around to do an alignment. I'm getting prices from 60$ to 100$ plus for the 4 wheel alignment. First off I've got people telling me they cant do it cause they need a SPECIAL TOOL that only Audi dealerships have?? Then i've got people saying the wheels are too big? Ok so i change my stock 16's back on today and went to Sears. Later on i get a call saying I needed my tires rotated? and that the front one needs to be in the back for an accurate reading? They asked permission to do it but i told them to ignore it. I just got my tires mounted and balanced! Then they call back and said i have suspension problems? My tie rods are worn out??? What are signs of worn tie rods? I this these shops are bsing me and overcharging me just cause i drive a audi.

 

One way to tell if you have bad tie rods is jack the car and wiggle the wheel if there is play in it then the tie rods are bad.
Also whene I went for my alignment they gave me a bunch of crap to like car was to low rims were to big and hit the fenders...
The car is only droped 1 1/4" and the wheels do not hit the fenders.

 

This is what is called "upcharging", also known as "You want fries with your wheel alignment?"

 

Tell them to set the toe and let you go

 

I just got new 18s put on yesterday. I'm going to get an alignment on Tuesday (I hope). I was quoted $55.

 

do you need an alignment with bigger wheels? (18's)

 

I spent 100bucks for a 4 wheel alingment.

 

droo,

Not sure what year your car is, but I recently replaced the tie rod ends on my car and the difference in handling was quite noticeable. I could tell mine were bad because when I would take a curve above 55mph on a road with even the slightest bumps, I would feel unstable and get some play in the steering wheel.

A sure fire test is to find a paved road with some healthy ruts in it. Drive it at a good click for a few miles if you get tossed all over lane when making slight steering adjustments, your tie rod ends need replaced.

 

Dats really bad if you can feel the play in a corner,
I ave seen some bust out the Socket whn there worn
so i wouldnt recommend that way to test them

 

Good call. Droo, if you've noticed any of those things replace 'em. No need to go and test them like that. I guess I was lucky and didn't pop my socket. Thanks Shaun.