Wheel Alignment vs Wheel Balancing

These two services are often confused but address different issues. Wheel balancing corrects the weight distribution of the tyre-wheel assembly to prevent vibration. Wheel alignment (also called tracking) adjusts the angles of the wheels relative to each other and to the road surface to ensure straight, even driving.

Balancing is carried out during every tyre fitting. Alignment is a separate process that requires a four-wheel alignment machine — and is not something that can be carried out on a mobile basis.

When Is Wheel Alignment Necessary?

Alignment should be checked whenever new tyres are fitted (especially if the previous tyres showed uneven wear, which is a key sign of misalignment), after any significant impact (pothole, kerb strike, minor accident), and generally once a year as part of routine maintenance.

Signs of misalignment include the car pulling to one side when driving straight, the steering wheel sitting off-centre when driving straight, and uneven tyre wear — more wear on one shoulder of the tyre than the other, or more wear on one axle.

What Happens If You Ignore Misalignment?

Driving on misaligned wheels causes tyres to wear unevenly and prematurely — potentially halving their lifespan. It also affects fuel economy and can cause handling issues. The cost of an alignment check is a fraction of the cost of replacing a tyre that's worn out early due to poor alignment.

If you notice uneven wear on the tyres we've fitted, or if your car pulls to one side, we'd recommend visiting a tyre or alignment centre for a four-wheel alignment check. We're always happy to advise when we're on-site — just ask the technician.