What Are the Differences Between Balancing & Alignment?
When driving your car, it should travel in a straight line with minimal corrections required as long as you aren't turning. However, if it seems to drift to one side, or you notice that the tires are wearing out unevenly, you might need tire balancing, a wheel alignment, or both. If you're unsure about which service the vehicle needs, here is a brief guide that explains the differences and benefits of each one.
Tire Balancing
The wheels must balance the weight of each tire evenly so that the car can ride smoothly. The process of balancing involves adjusting the tires to change the distribution of the weight. Automotive technicians do this by placing the wheel assembly on a balancing machine, which spins the assembly and informs them where the imbalance is. Then, the technician can add or remove the proper weights to achieve the correct balance.
You may need this service if you are noticing a bumpier ride or vibrations in the cabin. Improper balancing also causes the tread to wear unevenly. Generally, you should receive this service about every 12,000 miles so that the vehicle is safe and comfortable to drive. You may also need it after repairing a flat or buying a new set of tires.
Wheel Alignment
The position of each wheel affects how you steer and the smoothness of the ride. An alignment adjusts the direction and angle of the tires on the suspension system so that they operate efficiently. Technicians start by aligning the toe to correct the angle of the tires in relation to each other. This eliminates the problem of your car pulling to one side, or not driving straight if you let go of the steering wheel.
Then, they move to the camber, which straightens the wheel angle so that it doesn't lean to either side. Finally, they align the caster, which is the device that controls the angle of the steering pivot when you view the vehicle from the side. This correction fixes wheels that are too far back or forward in their wheel wells. The best schedule for getting an alignment is to do it every 6,000 miles or whenever you change the oil in vehicles that use synthetic lubricant. This extends the life of your tires.
When you need help balancing and aligning your vehicle's wheels, contact Mulphanny Tire & Automotive in Florissant, MO. These technicians use top-of-the line equipment to diagnose and fix a wide range of issues. From routine maintenance to emergency auto repair, they deliver excellent customer service to help you get back on the road safely and affordably. Call (314) 921-4961 to schedule an appointment. Visit them online for more information about their services.
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