Alignment issue

[otbexige]

I am new to the forum and own an 08 4runner SR5.

I have the lifetime Firestone alignment and after getting new tires and taking it to them they told me the following:

" The wheels are in alignment but the steering wheel is now cast off to one side. We have a new diagnostic system that allows us to communicate with the vehicle's computer and allows us to correctly re-align the steering wheel. This is going to be a half hour job and will cost you $50. This is the only way for us to correctly adjust the steering wheel. "

I took it to them just over a year ago and had not ran into this issue. I told them not to do it and that I would simply pull the steering wheel and re-align it myself.

They told me there are special sensors that may be damaged or cause future issues if I attempt to remove the steering wheel.

My hunch is that they are full of it but I just wanted to make sure with other 4runner owners before committing either way. I am aware that I will have to unplug the battery for a while in order to prevent the air bag from going off and I have a steering wheel puller.

Your advice and responses are appreciated.

 

[03_4x4Runner]

This shop does not know what they are doing. The steering wheel is centered by adjusting the tie rod ends on a rack and pinion system like we have. They are just to lazy to do it correctly. It is part of a standard alignment to center the steering wheel. Do not try to remove the steering wheel unless you have experience with dealing with the air bag.

 

[snhrph]

This shop does not know what they are doing. The steering wheel is centered by adjusting the tie rod ends on a rack and pinion system like we have. They are just to lazy to do it correctly. It is part of a standard alignment to center the steering wheel. Do not try to remove the steering wheel unless you have experience with dealing with the air bag.

:iagree: Completely!!!

Speak to the shop manager. If that does not help, call the customer service.

 

[otbexige]

Thanks guys. I figured it was BS since my wife picked up the car and magically, the steering wheel was suddenly aligned after I told them I would do it myself.

Thanks for the replies.