What's the Difference Between Tire Balance & Wheel Alignment?

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that physically contacts the road. As such, it's imperative to have properly inflated tires that are in good condition. And two of the most important services you can have for your vehicle are tire balancing and wheel alignment. While these two services are essential and related, they are different preventative maintenance solutions. 

At the Marthaler Honda of Ashland Service Department, we offer both tire balance and wheel alignment services for virtually all makes and models. Let's take a closer look at the similarities and differences between tire balance and wheel alignment. 

What Is Tire Balancing?

Tire balancing is also called wheel balancing. This service is designed to correct the uneven distribution of weight in the tire wheels. If you drive around on unbalanced tires, it can cause:

• Excessive tire wear
• Suspension damage
• Vibration
• And more

Instead, the best solution is to have your tires balanced as needed. 

How Do I Know My Tires Need to Be Balanced?

Your vehicle may offer you several different signs that it needs a tire balance. For example, some of the most common signs that your tires need to be balanced are:

• Vibration in the floorboard
• Vibration in the steering wheel
• Vibration in the seat
• Uneven tire wear

You should pay special attention to where the vibration or tremble occurs. This is because the part of your vehicle that shakes is most likely the area that needs to have the wheels balanced. For instance, if your vehicle vibrates in the back seats, it's most likely the rear tires that are out of balance. If your vehicle trembles at the steering wheel, it's most likely your front tires. 

When Should I Have My Wheels Balanced?

In addition to the previous signs, you should have a tire balancing whenever:

• You have a flat tire repair
• You have a tire rotation
• As a part of your regularly scheduled maintenance

Why Are My Tires Out of Balance?

Your tires can be out of balance due to normal driving and wear and tear or the loss of wheel weight if you were to hit a pothole or curb. In addition, leaving your vehicle sitting idle or parked for long periods can cause flat spots to develop, which can lead to imbalances. 

What Is Wheel Alignment? 

Also called tire alignment, wheel alignment is a quintessential service that has little to nothing to do with your wheels. Instead, a wheel alignment involves the adjustment of your vehicle's suspension system, which connects the wheels to the vehicle. Proper wheel alignment can help improve the handling of your vehicle, minimize unnecessary vibrations, and prevent your vehicle from veering to the left or right.

How Do I Know I Need a Wheel Alignment?

Similar to tire balancing, your vehicle may issue distinct signs that you need a wheel alignment. A few of the most common signs you need a wheel alignment include:

• Squealing tires
• The vehicle pulls to one side.
• Your steering wheel vibrates when you accelerate.
• Your steering wheel logo is off-center when you drive.
• Your tires experience uneven wear
• Your tires wear out prematurely

Why Is My Vehicle Out of Alignment?

Your vehicle can be out of alignment as a natural and normal wear and tear process. However, misalignment can also be caused by:

• Being in an automobile accident
• Running over a curb
• Aggressive driving
• Heavy loads
• Driving over potholes
• Worn or replaced suspension parts
• Mismatched tires

How Often Should I Have Wheel Alignment and/or Tire Balancing Performed?

Like most automotive maintenance services, there are no hard and fast rules for how often you should have tire balancing and wheel alignment. There are several factors to consider, including:

• The quality of your tires
• How often do you drive your vehicle
• The quality of roads you drive on
• How you drive your vehicle

In either case, your owner's manual is your single source of truth. Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's suggested intervals. However, wheel balancing may be required more often than wheel alignment. 
One generally accepted rule of thumb is to have your tire balance and wheel alignment inspected every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Or you can have your wheel alignment and tire balancing inspected annually. You should also have your tires balanced and wheel alignment inspected anytime you purchase and install new tires. Doing so can help protect your vehicle and wallet by maximizing MPGs and reducing more expensive repairs. 

Contact Marthaler Honda of Ashland

At Marthaler Honda of Ashland, we are your one-stop auto service and repair center. We offer award-winning service and perform virtually any auto service and repair your vehicle may need. Our highly trained and certified mechanics leverage the latest and most advanced equipment to perform wheel balancing, tire alignment, and more. 

Schedule your appointment today.

Contact Marthaler Honda of Ashland today.