When many people hear the terms wheel alignment, or wheel balancing, they often get confused as to what service is actually going to be done on their vehicle. Just remember, these conditions are actually miles apart with basically nothing in common except a wheel. The only thing wheel alignment and wheel balancing have in common is that they both affect the forward motion and drivability of the vehicle To put is simply, wheel alignment is vital to keep your vehicle going straight down the road, whereas, wheel balancing will smooth out a vibrating or pulsating steering wheel caused by unbalanced tires.
How do I know whether my vehicle needs a Wheel Alignment or wheel balancing?
The most common symptoms that signal that your vehicle needs a wheel alignment is severe wear on the inside or outside edge of your tires, and/or drifting problems when you let go of the steering wheel. Several conditions may cause the same results:
- low tire pressure
- worn out brakes
- front end problems
Each vehicle has a unique setting for a specific alignment that is established by every automaker, i.e., factory default settings. Unfortunately, these default settings will be compromised, due to the unevenness of the pavement, the crown of the highways, vehicle accidents, and daily driving in general.
One good suggestion from auto manufacturers is to get your vehicle aligned every time you have tires replaced. Or, also if they notice uneven wear or if the ball joints, tie rods or suspension has been replaced. One important thing to remember is; if the front end of your car is under repair, hold off on an alignment until the new parts are replaced. There is no need to pay for a second alignment. Remember that a wheel alignment may be necessary after many types of vehicle repairs, because the repairs may interfere with the wheel alignment.
For expert advice on wheel alignment and/or wheel balancing, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and surrounding communities.
When many people hear the terms wheel alignment, or wheel balancing, they often get confused as to what service is actually going to be done on their vehicle. Just remember, these conditions are actually miles apart with basically nothing in common except a wheel. The only thing wheel alignment and wheel balancing have in common is that they both affect the forward motion and drivability of the vehicle To put is simply, wheel alignment is vital to keep your vehicle going straight down the road, whereas, wheel balancing will smooth out a vibrating or pulsating steering wheel caused by unbalanced tires.
How do I know whether my vehicle needs a Wheel Alignment or wheel balancing?
The most common symptoms that signal that your vehicle needs a wheel alignment is severe wear on the inside or outside edge of your tires, and/or drifting problems when you let go of the steering wheel. Several conditions may cause the same results:
- low tire pressure
- worn out brakes
- front end problems
Each vehicle has a unique setting for a specific alignment that is established by every automaker, i.e., factory default settings. Unfortunately, these default settings will be compromised, due to the unevenness of the pavement, the crown of the highways, vehicle accidents, and daily driving in general.
One good suggestion from auto manufacturers is to get your vehicle aligned every time you have tires replaced. Or, also if they notice uneven wear or if the ball joints, tie rods or suspension has been replaced. One important thing to remember is; if the front end of your car is under repair, hold off on an alignment until the new parts are replaced. There is no need to pay for a second alignment. Remember that a wheel alignment may be necessary after many types of vehicle repairs, because the repairs may interfere with the wheel alignment.
For expert advice on wheel alignment and/or wheel balancing, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Clausen Automotive by calling (608) 221-8321 or go on-line at https://www.clausenautomotive.com for more information. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and surrounding communities.
