New tires at 105 k mpg is way down from 52 to 46 and the drive is off

Yes, the Hunter racks do cost in the neighborhood of $80k, which is why they are often found in the big-name franchise shops -- they are the only ones who can afford them. Unfortunately, these big name places are often the same ones who employ the least competent individuals to do the alignments. Due to the sophistication of the Hunter software, it can be operated by the most novice technician...which is an issue since these same people do not understand the most basic alignment concepts (all they do is follow the screen prompts).

What did Luscious Garage charge for the alignment?




iPhone ?

 

I have a local shop that I work with. I do a lot of diagnostic and programing work for them.
They're really good for the tire and alignment service and have the proper equipment with tech training.
I know the owner and all the techs. It would save you a lot of time instead of driving to SF.
I know the job would be done properly too. I refer a lot of my own customers to them for tire,
alignment and maintenance service. If you would like to talk with me about it, drop me a PM.

 

PM sent.

 

Sure, please send me a PM. Your profile won't let me PM you.


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This is also an interesting point. I've read that tire pressure gauges are notoriously inaccurate, especially the mechanical ones where the measurement indicator slides out to show the pressure amount. I doubt whoever checked the tire pressure at the Firestone place intentionally put too much and then too little air in. It may have been two different guys with different gauges, both wrong. A good digital gauge kept in the glove box I have found to be helpful.

So, I know you were very pleased with the MPG going home, how about the handling; did you notice any difference? And does your husband, since he is most familiar with the handling characteristics of the car?

 

Which is code for: he still works there, but isn't man enough to come out front and talk to you about his stuff ups.

Great result. You'll have to let us know if your husband finds the handling is improved after he has had a chance to drive it.

 

Yes, there was a huge clue right back in your first post when you said: " they showed me that there was a tear between the bottom and the side, which they claimed had occurred because I had failed to get routine alignments." What they told you there was complete nonsense. There is no way that the lack of wheel alignments caused a sidewall tear. More likely this was just related to whatever incident gave you the flat.

What DrDiesel said above, these guys where just taking your money and giving you lip service.