I am looking into changing over my basic MINI One basic non sports suspension for a set of Cooper S Sports suspension dampers and springs. My dealer then told me that I would need full KDS Laser wheel alignment which would cost done at the dealers close to £200.
It does make sense that this would need doing but can I settle for a laser 4 wheel alignment from a non bmw, wheel specialist garage? Will this be a good enough tracking job considering I would have just replaced my whole suspension system?
After spending money on the actual suspension job I don't think I can afford to pay £200 for the wheel alignment too when it normally costs around £30 at my local garage when I get my tyres replaced.
At the end of the day bmw always rip you off, i had problems with my new wheels went to a good garage and paid £30 or so. Anyone can do this with the right equipment and its be no means difficult. I wouldn't waste your money at the dealer.
Any quality shop with a 4 wheel alignment machine should be able to help you out. Most of the better mahines already have the mini spec program installed. There is no secret BMW mystery involved.
I'd be amazed if anyone can get a proper lazer 4 wheel alignment for £30 but certainly there are plenty of companies that can do a job the same if not better than BMW for far less. Do bear in mind that they need to fully check the alignment of each wheel and the steering position sensor. Just dont go to quickfit as they will only do a front wheel alignment check against the rear wheels which is pointless if the rear wheels are miss aligned. I cant think of anywhere local to use that do one except Regal Autosport but i'm sure there's plenty.
Laura, hello mate Do you know anywhere good in portsmouth to get tyres? I work in Hilsea and stay in Emsworth and all I've seen so far is an ATS or Snows
HELLO!!!!! Didn't know you worked in Hilsea and lived in Emsworth! Have you just moved?
Good tyre fitters in portsmouth.... Not really. I normally go to Micheldever which is where Dipstic above suggested. Just off the M3 above Winchester.
I thought they did laser tracking there..... Cheers Dipstic. Still researching into the compatability of the suspension system at the moment, my dealer is asking for me so I'm just waiting for the info now.
But I have just found a place in Fareham thats the same chain as Micheldever so same quality fitting and procedure and much closer for me too being in Gosport.
I don't live in Emsworth, just stay there from time to time with friends. I'm only in Hilsea once a week roughly, although might be looking to move down permanently soon
Thanks for the info on Protyre, I'll give them a shout
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Do you know anywhere good in portsmouth to get tyres? I work in Hilsea and stay in Emsworth and all I've seen so far is an ATS or Snows 
