Wheel Alignment and Wheel Balancing are two totally different things, but many people often get them confused.

In a nutshell, wheel alignment consists of adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other. The purpose of these adjustments is maximum tyre life and a vehicle that runs straight and true when driving along a straight and level road. Wheel Balancing, on the other hand allows the tyres and wheels to spin without causing any vibrations. This is accomplished by checking for any heavy spots on the wheel/tyre combination and compensating for it by placing a wheel weight on the opposite site of the wheel from where the heavy spot is.

Incorrect alignment can result in rapid irregular tyre wear and can even affect the handling and safety of the vehicle. Wheel alignment can be affected by driving against a kerb, hitting a pothole in the road or by excessive wear to steering or suspension components.

Alignment of wheels and tyres to the specification required by your vehicle is an important way to guarantee a smooth ride and to get the most out of your tyres.

Symptoms which indicate your wheel alignment needs attention:

  • Your vehicle pulls to one side whilst driving

  • Your steering wheel isn't straight

  • Your tyres are wearing unevenly and wearing off quickly

  • Your vehicle wanders on the road

If you have noticed any of the above we advise you contact us at your earliest opportunity for a 4 wheel alignment check.

Out-of-balance tyres will cause any vehicle to vibrate at certain speeds, usually between 50 and 70 mph.

A tyre is out of balance when one section of the tyre is heavier than the others. One ounce of imbalance on a front tyre is enough to cause a noticeable vibration in the steering wheel at about 60 mph.

Most high quality tyres will hold their balance fairly well and go out of balance very gradually. If you notice a vibration that wasn't there the day before, it is possible that one of the lead balancing weights fell off. If you feel the vibration mostly in the steering wheel, the problem is most likely in a front wheel. If the vibration is mostly in the seat, the problem is probably in the rear.

Symptoms which indicate your wheels are out of balance:

  • Vibration through your steering wheel

  • Vibration through your seat

  • Vibration through the floor

  • Vibration on all of the above only at certain speeds

If you have noticed any of the above we advise you contact us at your earliest opportunity for a wheel balancing check.