Wheel Alignment

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.

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