Tire Balance Vs. Wheel Alignment - What is the Difference?

Several driving circumstances can wreak havoc on your tires, suspension, and alignment. Going through a pothole, hitting a curb, and even going over a speed bump a little too fast can all impact your car. This can lead to issues with performance and even safety. As such, it’s vital to know the difference between wheel alignment and tire balancing and when you need to take your car in. Let’s look at how Lincoln Township Motors in Beamsville can help you understand these differences.

Tire Balancing Vs. Wheel Alignment

If you’re unfamiliar with car services or maintenance, it can be easy to think that tire balancing and wheel alignment are the same. These are entirely different procedures and solve different issues.

Tire balancing is the practice of evenly distributing the weight of the wheel and tire assembly. Tire balancing is done by attaching small weights at specific points to counterbalance any heavy spots. Your tires will be worn more equally, and the weight will be more evenly distributed. 

Wheel alignment is the process of adjusting the wheels back to the manufacturer’s specifications. Any bumps or uneven ground can cause shifts in alignment, which can cause your car to feel off balance or pull towards one side.

The Purpose of Each

Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between tire balancing and wheel alignment, it’s important to also understand why we need to perform these maintenance activities.

When your tires aren’t balanced it has a direct impact on the driving experience and when left can lead to safety issues as well. Balanced tires ensure a smoother ride and even tire wear. Alternatively, wheel alignment affects handling, stability, and tire longevity. Driving with unaligned wheels can lead to uneven tire wear, the car pulling to one side, and decreased fuel efficiency. 

How To Know Which One You Need

To understand whether you need a wheel alignment or tire balancing, you’ll need to pay close attention to your car. If you experience any unusual or new vibrations while driving or if you notice uneven tire wear, that might indicate you need to balance your tires.

Alternatively, if you notice that your car pulls to one side or if your driving feels off-balance or less responsive, then you might need to book a wheel alignment.

Signs To Look For

If you notice any of these signs, take your car in immediately:

• Vibrations in the steering wheel or seat
• Uneven or rapid tire wear
• Pulling to one side while driving
• The steering wheel is not centered while you’re driving straight
• Any handling difficulty or struggles to maintain a straight line

Ensure Your Tires Are in Top Condition with Lincoln Township Motors

If your tires aren’t in top condition, it can have a significant effect on your driving experience and road safety. Make sure you take care of your tires by understanding the difference between wheel alignment and tire balancing and when each one is necessary. Reach out to us at Lincoln Township Motors in Beamsville with any questions or for help regarding the condition of your tires.

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