Do I Need Wheel Balancing After a Wheel Alignment?
2 Answers
Having a wheel alignment does not necessarily require wheel balancing. However, if tires are replaced or repaired, meaning the tire is removed from the wheel rim and then reinstalled, wheel balancing must be performed. Failure to do so may cause noticeable tire vibration at certain speeds. Introduction to Wheel Alignment: 1. Wheel alignment consists of front wheel alignment and rear wheel alignment. Front wheel alignment includes four parameters: caster angle, kingpin inclination angle, camber angle, and toe angle. Rear wheel alignment includes camber angle and individual rear wheel toe angle. 2. The purpose of wheel alignment is to maintain stable straight-line driving and easy steering, while reducing wear on tires and steering components during vehicle operation.
Having run an auto repair shop for twenty years, I've seen too many people assume that a wheel alignment is the ultimate solution. In reality, wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the tires to ensure the car drives straight and doesn't cause uneven tire wear. On the other hand, wheel balancing involves adding small lead weights to the wheels so they rotate without vibration. If you've just had an alignment and haven't touched the wheels—like changing tires or repairing a puncture—you probably don't need to redo the balancing. But if the steering wheel starts shaking at speeds over 60 km/h, it's most likely a balancing issue and should be addressed immediately. I always advise car owners to get a balance check whenever they install new tires or have wheel repairs done. It saves money in the long run and prevents potential hazards—safety comes first. Don’t forget these two items during regular maintenance; stable wheels mean a smoother, safer drive.
