Wheel Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment - What's the Difference?

Are you experiencing vibrations or uneven tire wear? It’s time to consider two essential services for maintaining the performance and safety of your vehicle: wheel alignment and balancing. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to different aspects of your vehicle’s wheel maintenance. Understanding wheel balancing vs. wheel alignment is crucial to ensure an optimal Grand Island driving experience and prolonging your tires’ lifespan. Learn the difference between the two services with the guide from Midway Auto Dealerships’s service team below.

Wheel Balancing

Wheel balancing is a procedure that ensures the tire and wheel assembly weight is evenly distributed around the axle. When your wheels are not properly balanced, you may experience vibrations, especially at higher speeds. This imbalance can lead to premature tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and even damage to suspension components. Here’s what you need to know about wheel balancing:

• Wheel balancing involves placing small weights on the wheel rim to counterbalance any heavy spots.
• It focuses on correcting the weight distribution of the tire and wheel assembly.
• The procedure is typically performed using specialized equipment, such as a computerized balancer.
• It is recommended to have your wheels balanced whenever you install new tires, replace a tire, or have your tires rotated.

Wheel Alignment

On the other hand, wheel alignment is the adjustment of the angles at which your tires make contact with the Hastings road. Over time, your vehicle’s suspension components may wear out or become misaligned, leading to improper wheel angles. Misaligned wheels can cause various issues, including uneven tire wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency. Here are some key points about wheel alignment:

• Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to match the manufacturer’s specifications.
• It focuses on optimizing the wheels’ camber, caster, and toe angles.
• The procedure is typically performed using precision alignment equipment.
• It is recommended to have your wheels aligned periodically or whenever you notice signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or steering pulling to one side.

Why Wheel Alignment and Balancing Are Important

While wheel balancing and wheel alignment address different aspects of your vehicle’s tires, both are crucial for a smooth, safe, and efficient Holdrege driving experience. Neglecting these services can result in increased tire wear, reduced fuel efficiency, compromised handling, and potential safety hazards. By maintaining proper wheel alignment and balancing, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• Enhanced driving comfort with reduced vibrations and smoother handling.
• Extended tire lifespan, saving you money on frequent replacements.
• Improved fuel efficiency, as properly aligned wheels reduce rolling resistance.
• Enhanced safety by maintaining optimal tire contact with the road surface.

Choose Midway Auto Dealerships for Your Wheel Alignment and Balancing Needs

At Midway Auto Dealerships, our experienced technicians utilize advanced equipment and techniques to ensure accurate and precise adjustments. Whether your vehicle needs wheel balancing, wheel alignment, or both, we’ve got you covered. Trust Midway Auto Dealerships for professional service and get your wheels back on track. Schedule your appointment in Kearney today and check out our service coupons!