Stay Aligned and Balanced: Wheel Alignment vs. Tire Balance Explained
Stay Aligned and Balanced: Wheel Alignment vs. Tire Balance Explained
Posted on June 24, 2025
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's handling, stability, and tire longevity, understanding the difference between a wheel alignment and tire balance is essential. In Newfoundland's inconsistent road conditions, ensuring that your wheels are properly aligned and balanced can make a big difference in your everyday drive.
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles of your wheels. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires make optimal contact with the road, improving steering response, handling, and overall vehicle stability. Whereas balancing your tires involves distributing the weight of the tire evenly around the centre axle.
A wheel alignment is recommended when you notice signs such as uneven tire wear, steering wheel vibration, or your vehicle pulling to one side. Tire balancing is necessary when you experience symptoms like steering wheel vibration at certain speeds or uneven tire wear due to tire imbalance.
To maintain optimal vehicle performance and safety on our roads, it's important to include regular wheel alignments and tire balances as part of your routine vehicle maintenance. If you're unsure about when to perform these services or have any questions, don't hesitate to contact your local Hickman dealership for support from our qualified service professionals!