[Ascension]

Background: In March 2007, I took my wifes BMW 325i into Midas for a 4 wheel thrust alignment and paid $70. No problems and the car drove nice and straight.

Yesterday, I took my wifes car into the same Midas store in Manteca, Ca because she noticed it pulling to the right. When I got there the guy initially said that they don't do BMW's. I said that's funny, because I had my wifes BMW aligned here in 2007. I was a little puzzled and showed him the computer printout for the alignment. He said BMW uses special equipment (mentioned sandbags in the seat & something else) to align their cars. Anyways, he placed it on the rack and did a preliminary inspection. He noticed the left and right rod bushings were cracked and needed to be replaced. He said this is why the car is slightly pulling to the right.

Question: Does BMW use a special machine to align their cars (4 wheel thrust alignment)?
Question: Should I take my car back to Midas to get it aligned once I get the rod bushings replaced?

I reviewed my maint paperwork and noticed that in Feb 2009, I took my car into East Bay BMW and replaced both front thrust rod bushings ($750). They have a 24 month warranty :-) I'm taking my car back to the dealership to have them replaced again :-)

[bkall4u]

Nothing really special except make sure that they use a laser alignment machine as these are the most accurate. Sand bags in front seat is a good idea but if you have a passanger then the car will sit different. This is not as important.

[FCP Euro]

+1

Midas should have no issue doing the alignment. If it came out correct when it was done in 2007, then they should be able to do it today. I don't believe the sand bags are needed.