Quick comparison
| Wheel balancing | Wheel alignment | |
|---|---|---|
| What it fixes | Uneven weight in the tire and wheel assembly | Angles of the wheels relative to the car and road |
| How it is done | Small weights are attached to the wheel | Suspension components are adjusted |
| Typical symptom | Vibration, often at highway speeds | Pulling to one side, off-center steering wheel, uneven tire wear |
What wheel balancing does
A tire and wheel assembly can have slightly heavier spots. A shop spins the assembly on a balancing machine and attaches small weights to the rim to even things out. This reduces vibration and helps tires wear more evenly.
What wheel alignment does
Alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so they sit correctly relative to the car and the road. The main angles are camber, caster and toe. A technician measures them and adjusts the suspension to the manufacturer’s specifications. Alignment can drift after hitting a pothole or curb, or as parts wear.
Alignment vs. camber alignment
Camber is the inward or outward tilt of the wheel when viewed from the front. A camber adjustment is one part of a full alignment, not usually a separate service. A typical alignment also covers toe and often caster.
Symptoms of each
Balancing: shaking in the steering wheel or seat, often noticeable at highway speeds. Steering wheel shake tends to point to the front wheels, and seat vibration to the rear.
Alignment: the car pulls to one side, the steering wheel is not centered when driving straight, or tires wear unevenly on the edges.
Symptoms can overlap, and other problems such as worn parts, damaged tires or poor tire pressure can cause similar effects. Our guide to why your car is shaking lays out other sources of vibration.
When to get each
Balancing is usually done when new tires are mounted, when a tire is repaired, or when vibration appears. Alignment is commonly checked when new tires are installed, after hitting something hard, after suspension work, or when the car pulls. Your owner’s manual or a tire shop can advise on intervals.
What does it cost?
Prices vary by shop, region and vehicle. Balancing is generally the less expensive service, and alignment typically costs more, particularly on vehicles with complex suspensions. Ask for a quote before you book, and ask whether combined packages are available.
Check tire pressure first
Incorrect pressure can cause uneven wear and a pulling or vague feeling that mimics alignment trouble. Before paying for service, check all four tires against the placard. See the tire pressure guide and our list of low tire pressure symptoms.