Abstract: A vehicle alignment and inspection system is provided which uses context sensitive information from several sources to enable the user/operator to achieve a more efficient alignment or inspection than previous systems. Features include digital photographs responsive to point-and-click operations by the operator, drop-down menus allowing direct access to specific operations, a database of tools and parts required for the job, and a "smart" alignment procedure.

Abstract: A diagnostic vehicle alignment system includes an electronic controller for guiding a user through a series of diagnostic steps to determine probable causes for particular vehicle symptoms. Vehicle wheel alignment measuring instruments determine the alignment of at least one wheel of the vehicle. An input device is manually operable by a user for providing symptom identification and answers to diagnostic questions. A digital memory stores a set of possible causes for each selectable symptom and also stores diagnostic questions and an identification of diagnostic procedures. The stored diagnostic questions and procedures are preselected to eliminate possible causes of the selected symptom from consideration. A display is provided for displaying diagnostic questions and procedures to the user.