If your car feels off while driving, especially at higher speeds, or you notice unusual tire wear, two services might come up during your visit to the shop: wheel alignment and tire balancing. While they both deal with your wheels and contribute to a smoother ride, they are very different procedures, each solving a specific set of problems.
Knowing the difference can help you understand what your vehicle actually needs and why keeping up with both services is important for performance, comfort, and tire longevity.
What Is Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment refers to adjusting the angles of your wheels so that they point straight and sit properly relative to the car’s body and the road. Over time, those angles can shift due to potholes, curb impacts, or general wear in suspension components.
An alignment service involves measuring and adjusting three key angles:
- Camber (tilt of the wheel inward or outward)
- Toe (whether wheels point slightly inward or outward)
- Caster (the angle of the steering axis)
When everything is set correctly, your vehicle tracks straight, handles predictably, and your tires wear evenly.
What Happens When Alignment Is Off
Misalignment may start subtly but becomes more noticeable over time. Signs include:
- The car pulling to one side
- A steering wheel that feels off-center
- Uneven or premature tire wear
- Steering that feels loose or unstable
Driving with poor alignment forces your tires to drag slightly instead of rolling freely. That not only wears them out faster but also puts stress on your suspension and reduces fuel efficiency.
What Is Tire Balancing
Tire balancing, on the other hand, focuses on the weight distribution of the tire and wheel assembly. Even small imbalances of a few grams can cause the wheel to wobble as it spins. The faster you go, the more noticeable the vibration becomes.
Balancing involves placing the tire and wheel on a machine that spins it at high speed and detects uneven weight. Then, small weights are added to the wheel to balance it out.
Unlike alignment, which is based on angles and geometry, balancing is about eliminating vibration and ensuring a smooth, even spin.
How to Know If Tires Are Out of Balance
The most common symptom is a vibration in the steering wheel at certain speeds, usually between 50 and 70 mph. In some cases, you may also feel a vibration through the seat or floorboard. Other signs include:
- Scalloped or cupped wear patterns on the tread
- Noise that increases with speed
- A general sense that the car isn’t gliding smoothly
Tires can go out of balance due to normal wear, changes in temperature, or the loss of a wheel weight. Whenever you install new tires, undergo a tire rotation, or have suspension work done, balancing is typically recommended.
Do You Need Both Services
Yes — but not always at the same time. Here’s when each is typically needed:
Wheel alignment is important after hitting a pothole, replacing suspension parts, or if your car pulls to one side. It’s also a good idea to check alignment once a year or every 12,000 miles.
Tire balancing is usually performed when new tires are installed or rotated. If you notice vibrations or uneven tread wear, it may be time to rebalance your tires.
Each service addresses a different issue, so one can’t fix a problem caused by the other. A vibrating steering wheel from unbalanced tires won’t go away with an alignment. And uneven tire wear from poor alignment won’t improve with balancing.
Why Staying on Top of These Services Saves You Money
Ignoring either alignment or balancing issues can shorten the life of your tires and lead to premature wear of suspension parts. Tires are a major investment, and both of these services help protect that investment by ensuring even wear and smooth performance.
You’ll also enjoy a more comfortable ride, better fuel economy, and a car that handles predictably, especially on long highway drives or during emergency maneuvers.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balancing Services in Evans, GA
At Marc Yount's Tire Pros in Evans, GA, our technicians provide both wheel alignment and tire balancing services using accurate diagnostic equipment. Whether your car is pulling, vibrating, or your tires are wearing out faster than expected, we’ll pinpoint the issue and make sure your vehicle is safe, stable, and ready for the road.
Schedule an appointment with Marc Yount's Tire Pros today for professional service that helps you get the most out of your tires and suspension.