Importance of Wheel Balancing and Wheel Alignment

Wheel balancing and wheel alignment are two car servicing requirements that most car owners procrastinate. Undoubtedly, it can lead to greater problems and may affect the vehicle’s performance and safety. Lack of balancing can result in reduced life of tyres as well. So, why are wheel balancing and wheel alignment important? We will be discussing the importance of wheel balancing and wheel alignment in this article. Before that, we will look into what wheel alignment is and the symptoms that indicate wheel alignment and wheel balancing are due.

Wheel alignment is the balancing or aligning of wheels to make sure that the tyres are having optimal contact with the road. In due course, the tyre contact with the road would vary. With some tyres making more contact than others. This will result in an imbalanced scenario, as well as, more rubbing of specific tyres.  A wheel alignment will examine the condition and make alignment of all the tyres even.

Symptoms that Indicate Wheel Alignment and Wheel Balancing are Due

The indications that tell you wheel alignment is due to include:

• The car will tend to move to a particular side while driving on a plain road. And you may have to put some effort into keeping it steady and straight.

• Steering wheel vibration is indicative of misaligned wheels. This can cause increased tyre wear.

• Car suspension may have less effect if the wheels are not aligned properly.

• You may notice uneven tyre wear, which is an indication of a wheel alignment problem.

Importance of Wheel Balancing and Wheel Alignment for Your  Car

Wheel balancing and wheel alignment are necessary for the improved service life of car tyres, steering system and suspension. Furthermore, it improves fuel economy.

• Improved Life of Car Tyres: The tyre wear would be uneven if the wheels were not balanced or aligned. This will necessitate tyre replacement in a shorter interval than normal.
• Suspension and Steering Life: Misaligned, as well as, imbalanced wheels put extra load on the suspension and strain the steering system. Consequently, the systems may wear unevenly. The repair may be expensive considering the cost of steering and suspension spares. 
• Boost Fuel Economy: Wheel balancing/ alignment has a direct effect on the fuel economy of the car. It is proven that properly aligned and balanced wheels cause less fuel consumption. The basic reason for this is the extra effort the engine has to put into moving a car with imbalanced and misaligned wheels forward.

             Read to know: Tips to Maximize Your Car's Fuel Efficiency

• Safety: Driving with wheels that require balancing or alignment is a great safety hazard. It can cause accidents due to unwarranted movement to a side.
• Comfort: Issues with wheel balancing and alignment can result in discomfort during the ride. Get the wheel balancing and alignment done in the specified intervals or when you observe the symptoms to have a comfortable journey.  

When to Undertake Wheel Alignment and Wheel Balancing?

The wheel alignment and wheel balancing should be undertaken every 5000-6000 km. Alternatively, do not delay undertaking these servicing requirements if you observe the symptoms that we listed before. Studies indicate that you must undertake wheel balancing and alignment every 2-3 years. You may club this servicing with an oil change to have a proper schedule.

What are the Types of Wheel Alignment?

Different types of wheel alignment are available. Some of the wheel alignment procedures followed globally are:

• Toe-in and Toe-out

• Positive and Negative Camber

• Positive and Negative Caster

• Four-wheel Adjustment

• Thrust Line Adjustment

The technicians will inspect the car and undertake the wheel alignment and wheel balancing process accordingly. At the same time, we suggest you opt for a trusted service centre that uses advanced tools and equipment for wheel balancing and wheel alignment. By this, you can ensure that both wheel balancing and wheel alignment are correctly done in a short time.

We would be happy to help you with the best wheel alignment and wheel balancing services at affordable rates. Indus has been using state-of-the-art equipment and tools for undertaking all car servicing needs. If you are looking for wheel alignment, wheel balancing, or any other car servicing requirements, do give us a call now and schedule the servicing right away.

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