Wheel Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment: What's the Difference?

When it comes to learning the difference between wheel alignment and balancing, it’s pretty easy to know what each service does to your Buick wheels. At Buick Lakeland, we can walk you through these two routine tire services so you understand the differences before scheduling your service appointment. Read on to learn more about the difference between wheel alignment vs. balancing then contact our service department with questions.

What is Wheel Balancing Service?

One of the major differences between wheel alignment and balancing is that wheel balancing is a service that you’ll need to complete on a routine basis at your nearest Bartow service shop. Wheels will lose their balance over time which can cause your steering wheel to shake or vibrate while you cruise through Brandon.

With balanced wheels, you can enjoy a smooth ride with minimal tire bouncing with improved traction and control. We recommend getting your wheels balanced every time you get a tire rotation, which would be about every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or every 6 months.

What is Wheel Alignment Service?

Another major difference between wheel alignment and balancing is that wheel alignment is not a routine maintenance service—but it should be done as needed. When it comes to wheel alignment vs. balancing services, a wheel alignment will make sure that each of your tires are parallel and perpendicular to one another.

Throughout your adventures from Winter Haven to Auburndale, you might drive on extremely uneven tread or poor road conditions that can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on your tires and steering issues. If you start to feel your steering wheel pull in one direction, it’s important to have your alignment checked to prevent any drifting.

Wheel Alignment vs. Wheel Balancing Cost

How much does wheel balancing cost? Depending on your vehicle and location, you can expect to pay between $40 to $75 to get your wheels balanced.

How much does a wheel alignment service cost? Typically, a front-end alignment can cost between $65 to $100 or more depending on what brand of vehicle you drive. If you need all four wheels aligned, it could cost double that amount.

In short, there are different variables that can come into play, which would impact the cost of your wheel alignment or balancing. To get a quote for your specific model, please be sure to contact our service department.

Visit Our Lakeland Auto Repair Shop Today

Now that you know how wheel alignment vs. balancing differs and the costs, contact us at Buick Lakeland for our service specials before stopping in!