Wheel Alignment vs. Wheel Balancing!
Most drivers think that when their vehicle consistently pulls to one side of the road or the other, there is a wheel alignment problem. Engine performance, tire wear, smoothness of the ride, and other vehicle components can all be adversely affected when wheels are not in proper alignment.
The longer a car is driven without attention to proper wheel alignment, the larger the expense of the repair. According to recorded data, the average automobile is driven about 15,000 miles per year. If you drive a car that is out of alignment for 15,000 miles, the resulting tire wear alone is the equivalent of the tires being dragged sideways for more than 68 miles. Be smart and financially wise by taking care of a wheel alignment problem early before it creates bigger and more expensive problems.
When is Wheel Balancing Needed?
If your steering wheel vibrates while driving, your car may simply need a wheel balancing. Generally, tires that are out-of-balance will cause a vehicle to vibrate at certain speeds; usually between 50 and 70 mph. One ounce of imbalance on a front tire is enough to cause a noticeable vibration in the steering wheel at about 60mph.
To balance a wheel, it is mounted on a balancing machine which spins the wheel to locate the heavier part. A lead weight is then attached on the opposite side. Many drivers are pleasantly surprised at how smooth their car drives after all four wheels are balanced correctly.
An out-of-balance problem usually happens very gradually. However, if you notice a vibration that wasn't there the day before, it is possible that one of the lead weights fell off. If you feel the vibration mostly in the steering wheel, check the front wheel. If you feel the vibration mostly in the seat, check the rear wheel.
Quick Tip: Ignoring a necessary wheel alignment or wheel balancing will likely require you to prematurely replace tires and other vehicle parts sooner than later.
If you're not sure whether your vehicle is in need of a wheel balancing or a car alignment, our ASE-certified technicians at Express Care Auto can help you out. Call 507-625-8005 today, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
Most drivers think that when their vehicle consistently pulls to one side of the road or the other, there is a wheel alignment problem. Engine performance, tire wear, smoothness of the ride, and other vehicle components can all be adversely affected when wheels are not in proper alignment.
The longer a car is driven without attention to proper wheel alignment, the larger the expense of the repair. According to recorded data, the average automobile is driven about 15,000 miles per year. If you drive a car that is out of alignment for 15,000 miles, the resulting tire wear alone is the equivalent of the tires being dragged sideways for more than 68 miles. Be smart and financially wise by taking care of a wheel alignment problem early before it creates bigger and more expensive problems.
When is Wheel Balancing Needed?
If your steering wheel vibrates while driving, your car may simply need a wheel balancing. Generally, tires that are out-of-balance will cause a vehicle to vibrate at certain speeds; usually between 50 and 70 mph. One ounce of imbalance on a front tire is enough to cause a noticeable vibration in the steering wheel at about 60mph.
To balance a wheel, it is mounted on a balancing machine which spins the wheel to locate the heavier part. A lead weight is then attached on the opposite side. Many drivers are pleasantly surprised at how smooth their car drives after all four wheels are balanced correctly.
An out-of-balance problem usually happens very gradually. However, if you notice a vibration that wasn't there the day before, it is possible that one of the lead weights fell off. If you feel the vibration mostly in the steering wheel, check the front wheel. If you feel the vibration mostly in the seat, check the rear wheel.
Quick Tip: Ignoring a necessary wheel alignment or wheel balancing will likely require you to prematurely replace tires and other vehicle parts sooner than later.
If you're not sure whether your vehicle is in need of a wheel balancing or a car alignment, our ASE-certified technicians at Express Care Auto can help you out. Call 507-625-8005 today, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
