Wheel Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment

It’s easy to get wheel alignment and balancing confused with one another. After all, they both sound the same, right? In reality, these services are very different and address two different problems. Your wheels are very important components of your vehicle, so it’s important to understand which service you need to ensure your vehicle is safe to cruise around Topeka. Luckily, Volkswagen of Topeka has you covered. Check out our guide below that breaks down the differences between wheel balancing vs. wheel alignment, then contact our service center to schedule an appointment!

What is a Wheel Balancing Service?

Every day driving can cause an imbalance in your tires. Wheel balancing, or tire balancing, corrects uneven distribution of weight to ensure a smooth ride and even tire wear. Many drivers only have their wheels balanced after they notice a problem, but having your wheels balanced regularly minimizes tire bouncing, improves traction and control, and extends the life of your tires. It’s recommended to have your wheels balanced when you get your tires rotated, which is about every 5,000 to 6,000 miles or every six months.

What is Wheel Alignment Service?

Over time, regular driving can cause your wheels to gradually get out of alignment or out of sync, especially if you’ve hit any potholes or curbs. This could result in uneven tire wear and make your car pull to one side, which could be hazardous while you’re traveling through Kansas City. An alignment is the process of a technician adjusting the angles of your wheels so they work together in unison so you can confidently drive on straightaways and corners. 

Deciding Which is Needed: Wheel Balancing vs. Wheel Alignment

So now that you know the difference between wheel alignment and balancing, how do you know which service you need? A qualified technician can help diagnose the specific issue and determine which service will improve your vehicle’s performance. However, we’ve outlined the signs for each service below to help you identify when it’s time to call your local Topeka service center. 

Wheel Balancing:

• Vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel or driver’s seat at certain speeds
• Uneven tire wear, such as cupping or scalloping

Wheel Alignment:

• Vehicle pulling to one side while driving on a straight road
• Uneven or rapid tire wear
• The steering wheel doesn’t return to the center after making a turn

Visit Volkswagen of Topeka for Your Automotive Service Needs!

If your Volkswagen is in need of an alignment or wheel balance, you can trust the expert technicians at Volkswagen of Topeka to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If you still have questions about wheel alignment and balancing, reach out to us for more service tips and tricks. Schedule service online at your earliest convenience, or give us a call at 785-519-8110 to make an appointment at our service center near Manhattan. Don’t forget to take advantage of our service specials and save money on routine maintenance!