Think of wheel alignment as making sure all four wheels are “talking” to each other and pointing in the same direction. It’s all about the angles of your wheels in relation to the road and to each other.
Wheel Alignment
What It Is?
A technician adjusts the suspension components that affect the wheel angles. This includes things like the
camber (how much the wheel tilts inward or outward), caster (how far forward or backward the steering axis is
tilted), and toe (whether the front of the wheels points inward or outward).
Why It's Important?
Even Tire Wear
Prevents tires from wearing unevenly, which can shorten their lifespan.
Proper Handling
Ensures your car steers predictably and responsively.
Fuel Efficiency
Reduces rolling resistance, which can improve gas mileage.
Safety
Helps maintain stability and control, especially in challenging conditions.
Signs You Might Need An Alignment
Uneven Tire Wear
Car Pulling To One Side
Steering Wheel Is Off-Center When Driving Straight
Squealing Tires
Wheel Balancing
Imagine a spinning top. If the weight isn't evenly distributed, it wobbles. Wheel balancing is similar – it ensures that the weight of your tire and wheel assembly is evenly distributed so it rotates smoothly.
What It Is?
A technician uses a specialized machine to identify any imbalances in the wheel and tire assembly. They thenadd small weights to the rim to counteract the imbalance.
Why It's Important?
Smooth Ride
Eliminates vibrations and wobbling, especially at higher speeds.
Prevents Tire Wear
Helps tires wear evenly, maximizing their lifespan.
Protects Suspension
Reduces stress on suspension components, thereby preventing premature wear and tear.
Signs You Might Need Balancing
Vibrations In The Steering Wheel
Vibrations In The Seat Or Floorboard
Uneven Tire Wear
Cupping Or Scalloping On The Tires
Key Differences
Alignment
Focuses on the angles of the wheels in relation to the road and each other.
Balancing
Focuses on the even distribution of weight throughout the wheel and tire assembly.
Do You Need Both?
Often, if you need one, you might need the other. For example, if you hit a pothole hard enough to knock your
alignment out, it could also throw your wheels out of balance. It’s a good idea to have both checked if you’re
experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above.