4 wheel alignment

[kylewc]

Hi all,

in desperate need of an alignment done after changing the worn track rod ends. i have googled it for local places to me (hammersmith/sw london/surrey) and this place came up:

http://www.twmotorinc.co.uk/laser-wheel-alignment.aspx

can anyone recommend someone close to me or has anyone used these guys?

also what is a 'reasonable' price as prices seem to vary dramatically!

thanks!

kyle

[GrahamS4]

Anything from £50-£180 price wise, the higher what you are likely to pay at Audi main dealers.

I'd say a typical independant is going to charge about £80. Sadly price doesn't necessarilly match the level of equipment used or the expertise operating it.

[kylewc]

thats the problem im having. have heard of loads of places that have the best equipment and charge loads to use it but the mechanic operating it is a complete monkey!

just dont want to make that mistake, so was hoping for a personal recommendation from someone...

[david7m]

I got my pants pulled down and lubed up big time last year with my tracking

Go straight to Audi if your car is running standard wheels and suspension. I tried two independants and they both screwed it up!

Audi Bedford are £90 for a check, £120 including adjustment! But ring a few dealers first, they seem to vary in price.........

Dave

[kylewc]

well... i thought id follow your advice and see what my local stealer would charge... now brace yourself - £352!!

i asked how they could justify the difference in price and he said its 2 hours labour and we in West London Audi have a higher labour rate!

They can get stuffed!

[david7m]

Try a few others....if not, come to Bedford, it would be cheaper

Dave

[david7m]

I'll dig out my invoice later and see if it lists hours and labour rate!

Dave

[kylewc]

i thought it couldnt get worse than that, but Battersea have just said its 3 hours and £387! what are these guys smoking! 3 hours to do and alignment. my cat could do it faster, better and cheaper than that!

[david7m]

Kyle, what car do you have? Std wheels and suspenders?

Dave

[kylewc]

yeah, its totally standard...

[david7m]

Ring Bedford Audi on 01234 320033 just to check there price and how many hours they say. Then, ring back some local Audi stealers to you and query the difference..........

Dave

[kylewc]

just called Bedford, its £100 for the check and then £41 for any chnages, which mine needs.

so;
Bedford=£141,
West London=£325,
go figgure!!

Thanks for the advice David. If i cant find anyone else cheap down this way may be making a visit to them then.

[david7m]

Glad to be of service

I'd 110% stick with Audi though if your car is standard!!!!!!!! I tried two other places last year before I went to Audi, they sorted it no problem

Dave

[derdle]

Or you could try Hatfield Audi..closer than bedford and their labour rate is £ 95. I know the service manager quite well. 01707 277880.
Having said that, I had mine done close to work by an indy as part of a suspension change.
Given that you live in Surrey, can QST in Haywards Heath do this for you? (Before anyone comments, I know Haywards Heath is Sussex!! but it'll save Kyle battling with the lovely M25)

Paul