All About Wheel Alignment and Balancing

We’ve all heard the popular song “The Wheels on The Bus”. And we all know what they do — go ‘round and ‘round. But in order for bus wheels, car wheels, truck wheels — or any vehicle’s wheels for that matter — to work properly, they need to be aligned and balanced at regular intervals. That brings us to the topic of this page: wheel balancing vs. wheel alignment in Williston. What exactly are each of these wheel services and how do they differ? Learn more with the Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge service center!

What is Wheel Balancing?

Wheel balancing is a car service that should be performed at regular intervals in order to ensure that wheels track straight and lead to optimal handling and tire tread wear. Why is it necessary? Did you know that wheels lose their balance as you drive them? When your wheels are out of balance, it often causes your vehicle’s steering wheel to vibrate or excessively shake. That can make your Stanley commute or Watford City road trips uncomfortable. Plus, imbalanced tires create further issues as they wear unevenly and eventually lead to a loss of handling and performance.

Wheel balancing reduces tire bouncing and optimizes your vehicle’s traction. Doing it regularly also helps to prolong the life of your tires so you don’t find yourself having to use a spare. So, just how often should you get your wheels balanced? Every time you have a tire rotation (roughly every 5,000 to 6,000 miles/every 6 months) is a good rule of thumb to follow.

What is a Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignments are also known as suspension alignments and should be performed on an as-needed basis, or roughly every 2-3 years. What are wheel alignments and how do they differ from wheel balancing? We’re glad you asked! The answer is that in wheel alignment, service technicians work to adjust components of your suspension so that your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Wagoneer vehicle’s tires are both perpendicular to the road and parallel to each other. Accordingly, wheel alignments are much more involved than wheel balancing.

What are the symptoms of a car that needs a wheel alignment? Vehicles that have excessive, uneven tread, unnecessary tire wear, and tear and noticeable steering issues may require an alignment. Vehicle pulling or drifting into the next lane as you’re driving through Watford City is another common (and dangerous) symptom that your vehicle may be due for an alignment soon.

Compare Wheel Alignment and Balancing in Williston

Now you know more about wheel balancing vs. wheel alignment, and we hope you have a better idea of how to service your vehicle! If you have any additional questions about routine vehicle maintenance or ongoing issues with your car, truck, or SUV, contact us! Alternately, if you’re ready to bring your vehicle in for either repair, we invite you to schedule service now. We’re here to help with all your service needs here at Ryan Chrysler Jeep Dodge!