Want a smoother drive and longer-lasting tyres? It could be time to check your wheel alignment or wheel balancing. These two services are typically included in routine vehicle maintenance; however, they serve distinct purposes.
Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your tyres so they point in the right direction, while wheel balancing makes sure the weight is evenly spread around each tyre and wheel. Both are important for a safe, comfortable drive and to prevent uneven tyre wear. A regular wheel alignment service ensures smooth handling on all roads and terrains, reduces tyre wear, and enhances overall driving performance.
This blog will discuss wheel balancing Vs wheel alignment and their differences.
What Is Wheel Balancing?
Wheel balancing is the process of ensuring the weight of your tyres and wheels is evenly distributed around the axle. Over time, tyres can develop slight weight imbalances, which lead to vibrations while driving, especially at higher speeds.
These imbalances are corrected by adding small weights to the rim. The aim is to achieve a smooth, vibration-free ride and prevent unnecessary wear on suspension components and tyres.
Common signs you need wheel balancing:
- Vibrations in the steering wheel or floor while driving
- Uneven tyre wear
- Noisy driving experience
- Poor fuel economy
Balancing becomes necessary not only over time but also whenever tyres are rotated, repaired, or replaced. A tyre service includes checking for these issues and balancing your wheels if needed.
What Is Wheel Alignment?
Wheel alignment, on the other hand, refers to adjusting the angles of your wheels to match the manufacturer’s specifications. Over time or due to driving over potholes and curbs, your wheels can become misaligned, affecting your car’s handling and causing your tyres to wear out unevenly.
Proper wheel alignment ensures all four wheels are pointed in the right direction, improving steering response and overall driving safety.
Common signs you need wheel alignment:
- The vehicle pulls to one side while driving
- The steering wheel isn’t straight, even when driving straight
- Uneven or rapid tyre wear
- Squealing tyres when turning
Routine wheel alignment service helps maintain consistent control over your vehicle.
Why Wheel Alignment and Wheel Balancing Are Often Confusing
It’s easy to mix up wheel balancing and wheel alignment, especially since both are related to how your vehicle handles and how your tyres wear. However, the two services address very different issues.
Wheel balancing focuses on distributing weight evenly across the tyre and wheel assembly. Wheel alignment deals with the angles of your wheels and how they contact the road. Both are important, but they solve different problems. Regular checks on pressure, alignment, and tread depth also contribute significantly to tyre longevity, as outlined in these helpful tyre maintenance tips.
Benefits of Regular Tyre Service
Whether it’s wheel balancing, alignment, or a general tyre service, staying on top of tyre care offers several benefits:
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Smoother, more comfortable driving
- Enhanced vehicle safety
- Prolonged tyre life
- Better suspension performance
During regular car servicing, a mechanic will often check your tyres for wear patterns. These patterns can reveal whether you’re due for a balancing or alignment service. Fixing the issue early helps avoid more expensive repairs down the line.
When Should You Book Wheel Alignment or Balancing?
Here are a few situations when you should definitely consider having your wheels checked:
- After hitting a pothole or mounting a curb
- Following a tyre replacement or rotation
- When you notice unusual tyre wear
- If the steering feels off or the car pulls to one side
- At regular service intervals recommended in your owner’s manual
If you’re unsure which service is needed, a trusted car mechanic near you can inspect your vehicle and provide a recommendation. It’s common for both balancing and alignment to be performed together, especially when fitting new tyres.
Do New Tyres Need These Services?
Yes, new tyres often require both wheel alignment and balancing. While they may look and feel ideal, even slight manufacturing differences can create weight imbalances. Similarly, fitting new tyres may slightly shift your car’s suspension angles, so checking alignment is a precaution.
Scheduling these services after installing new tyres helps protect your investment, enhances vehicle performance, and prevents premature tyre wear.
Finding the Right Wheel Alignment Service
A quality provider will not only offer precise equipment and experienced mechanics but also include thorough inspections as part of their standard car servicing.
Look for a workshop that offers the services:
- Wheel alignment and balancing
- Comprehensive tyre service
- Suspension and steering diagnostics
- Honest, clear communication
Reading reviews and checking certifications can also help you find an experienced car mechanic near you who’ll get the job done right.
Making Wheel Care a Part of Your Car Servicing Routine
Including wheel alignment and balancing in your scheduled car servicing. Even if you’re not experiencing any obvious symptoms, it’s wise to have your wheels checked at least once a year or every 10,000 kilometres.
Your driving habits, the road conditions in your area, and even your car’s make and model can all influence how often these services are needed.
Take Away
While wheel alignment and wheel balancing are often confused, each has a unique role in keeping your vehicle safe, efficient, and comfortable. One ensures your wheels point in the right direction, while the other ensures your tyres spin smoothly without vibration.
Both are essential parts of proper car servicing, especially when considering how they impact tyre wear, fuel efficiency, and driving comfort. Whether you’ve noticed unusual handling or it’s been a while since your last inspection, booking a wheel alignment service or a trusted tyre service can make a significant difference.
Visit the BCS Workshop for wheel alignment and tyre balancing backed by years of experience. Their approach and comprehensive vehicle checks make them a reliable choice for car owners who want the best for their vehicles.
Digiwhiz