Alignment, what do I need to know?
 

What do I need to know to see if a shop can do an alignment on my 300cd? Seems like I remember someone saying the laser system was better. And there might be a special tool involved?

There's a special spreader bar that's required to put a load on the front suspension to get the alignment just right. Most likely, no non-dealer shop is going to have this tool. I've never had to have an alignment done on my car but I've heard mixed results of getting an alignment done somewhere other than the dealership. Some seem to have good results while others complain that its not quite right. If you can get a good deal on say, a lifetime alignment or something you can just keep bringing it back until they get it right.

There is a spreader bar as mentioned above and a tool/bolt to screw into the steering box to lock it in the center position. If a shop does not use them both, then I don't use the shop. Maybe they could get an alignment right, but my experience is that I only use a dealer for alignments. Have not had much luck elsewhere.