April 2019

Chris Coyle adds: “Sigmavision is currently working with independents to help them achieve increased revenues from tyre and alignment sales.” Significant improvement The need for proper wheel and body alignment is becoming much more understood according to Paul Beaurain, Managing Director at Pro-Align: “In recent years, there has been a significant improvement among workshops in the UK about the need for and the opportunities associated with professional four wheel alignment. Our research indicates that nine out of every 10 cars on the road suffers from some form of misalignment so it’s no surprise that many workshops have now woken up to this opportunity. What’s more, with potential profit margins of around 88% compared to services such as replacement brakes and tyres which offer just 49% and 16% respectively, it’s easy to see why many have finally opened their eyes. “Aside from the financial arguments for workshops to introduce four wheel alignment, there are many compelling business and customer service reasons too.Firstly, most motor manufacturers’ servicing schedules now state that for any steering and suspension related job to be completed properly, a four wheel alignment check is an essential final stage of the process.” Then there’s ADAS: “This position has been further re- enforced with the introduction of many new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS),” says Paul. “Systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure and many others rely on accurate information from the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS). In order to deliver that information accurately, the sensor needs to be calibrated as part of a safety system alignment, with the thrust line of the vehicle, which again, is required at the end of any four wheel alignment check and adjustment.” Customer service factors It’s for the customers in the end says Paul: “In addition to the financial and technical reasons why workshops should be offering a four wheel alignment service, there are also important customer service factors that alignment offers too. By carrying out a four wheel alignment check and adjustment on customers’ cars, workshops can show, especially after undergoing under car work, that they have taken the time to ensure that the car is aligned in accordance to, and as the motor manufacturer intended. This ensures lower fuel bills, reduced tyre wear and improved ride comfort which can only help improve the long-term customer relationship. “Some workshops have been reluctant or misinformed, and have felt that delivering a high quality, four wheel alignment service is out of their reach. Too many 38 AFTERMARKET APRIL 2019 WHEEL AND BODY ALIGNMENT Above: Sigmavision’s TreadManager Drive Over ramp www.aftermarketonline.net