The machines may be more accurate than hand tools, assuming regular calibration, however the problem is finding someone who actually knows how to use the machine properly.
These days most FWD cars only allow for toe adjustments, rarely camber and very rarely caster.
The angles are built into the design of the car.
If adjustment is needed due to an out of spec car, or for custom work, eccentric bolts, shims etc are needed.
Most cars aren't going to need that so the skills of the operator of the machine don't get utilized as much as in the old days with RWD cars.
Finding a person who can align a Mustang with caster camber plates and lowering springs etc is not easy.
One good method of finding a quality alignment shop is to talk to a collision place that works on high end cars and ask them who they use for their alignments.
That's how I found the place I use, and he was really good until he sold the business and the new owner ran it into the ground.
The biggest problem doing driveway adjustments is finding a level surface.
It can be done though.
These days most FWD cars only allow for toe adjustments, rarely camber and very rarely caster.
The angles are built into the design of the car.
If adjustment is needed due to an out of spec car, or for custom work, eccentric bolts, shims etc are needed.
Most cars aren't going to need that so the skills of the operator of the machine don't get utilized as much as in the old days with RWD cars.
Finding a person who can align a Mustang with caster camber plates and lowering springs etc is not easy.
One good method of finding a quality alignment shop is to talk to a collision place that works on high end cars and ask them who they use for their alignments.
That's how I found the place I use, and he was really good until he sold the business and the new owner ran it into the ground.
The biggest problem doing driveway adjustments is finding a level surface.
It can be done though.
