Wheel Alignment or Tire Balance - Which Do You Need?

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, you can't afford to wait until the last minute to get things done. It can be difficult to determine which services your vehicle requires. Wheel alignment and tire balance services are often confused with one another. Here's what you need to know about wheel alignment, tire balance, and when they will benefit your vehicle.

What is a Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment is when the angles of your car's wheels are adjusted to meet the manufacturer's specifications. This type of alignment is also referred to as tracking or breaking, and it is part of your car's standard maintenance schedule.

What is Tire Balance?

Tire balance describes the amount of mass that is distributed between your car's tires or the wheels as a whole, including the rim that is mounted upon.

Wheel Alignment vs. Tire Balance

Wheel alignment and tire balance services are often mistaken for one another, but they are two different auto services.

Wheel Alignment

The primary purpose of a wheel alignment is to reduce wear and tear on the tires. Wheel alignment ensures your car drives straight without moving from one side to the other. Wheel alignment is also referred to as front end alignment. During this process, the camber, toe, and caster are inspected to measure wheel orientation. You should have a wheel alignment performed every 10,000 miles.

Tire Balance

An imbalance in the tires can cause an unpleasant driving experience, such as your steering wheel moving back and forth. Maintaining full control of your car can be difficult. Over time, your car's wheels will become loose, and tire balance services restore the proper balance. Tire balances are generally performed every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or every six months.

Which Car Maintenance Service is More Important?

Wheel alignment and tire balance are equally important for the performance and life of your tires as well as your car's overall performance.

If your car needs a wheel alignment or tire rotation, look no further! We have everything you need. Stop by our shop today so we can maintain your vehicle and help it provide a smooth, comfortable driving experience.

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