Tire balancing and alignments are two different services that both help to prolong the life of your tires and keep your ride smooth and safe. These two services are often done at the same time. They also have similar warning signs. Despite the similarities, tire balancing and alignment correct different parts of your car.
What is tire balancing?
Tire balancing is a process to correct weight imbalances between tire and wheel assemblies. Technicians use a tire balancing machine to weigh the tire and wheel. They can then apply small metal weights to the wheel to even out the weight differences. Even minor imbalances can add up and impact your suspension, so tire balancing is an important maintenance service.
What is alignment?
An alignment is an adjustment of your wheels’ angles. Wheels can become misaligned for all sorts of reasons. If you hit a curb or a parking bumper, run over a large pothole, or bump into a road hazard, this can push your wheel out of line. When at least one wheel is pointing in a different direction, your car is essentially skidding. This can increase tire wear and possibly lead to other damage.
When should you balance your tires or align your car?
Tire balancing and alignment can happen at the same time. It’s fairly common to get them when you have your tires rotated or when you swap between summer and winter tires. Tire balancing, alignment, and tire rotation will help to protect your tires, steering, and suspension.
You should also have your tires balanced and/or aligned when:
- you notice fast or uneven tire wear,
- your car is pulling to the right or left when driving straight,
- you feel vibrations in the steering wheel or floor while you drive, or
- you just had a flat tire.
What are the benefits of tire balancing and alignment?
Like we said before, both of these services help to prolong the life of your tires. By balancing and aligning them, you can better protect yourself from flat tires, rapid tire wear, and expensive suspension issues. You may also notice an increase in fuel economy and easier handling. So, in short, balancing and alignment help to maintain your tires and keep you safe.
Call Restored Auto, LLC for your tire maintenance needs.
Whether you’re looking to have your tires balanced or aligned, we’ve got you covered. The experienced mechanics at Restored Auto, LLC can help with tire balancing, vehicle alignment, tire rotation, flat tire repair, and other tire maintenance. Protect your suspension and increase the life your tires by calling Restored Auto, LLC and setting up a service appointment.