What is the Difference Between Wheel Balancing and Wheel Alignment?

[Cardoso]

Here are the differences between wheel alignment and wheel balancing: Different functions: Wheel alignment involves inspecting and correcting the vehicle's driving trajectory, including adjustments to the suspension, chassis, and components; Wheel balancing simply makes the mass distribution of the wheels more even, allowing them to rotate more smoothly. Different responsibilities: Wheel alignment adjusts the data of all four wheels; Wheel balancing adds counterweights to each individual wheel. Different definitions: Front wheel alignment includes four aspects: caster angle, kingpin inclination angle, camber angle, and toe angle; Rear wheel alignment includes camber angle and individual rear wheel toe. Collectively, front and rear wheel alignment is referred to as wheel alignment, commonly known as four-wheel alignment. Wheel balancing refers to the balance between wheels during vehicle operation. Balance weights are added because the mass distribution across different parts of a tire cannot be perfectly uniform during manufacturing.

[LaSavannah]

I've been driving for over a decade and only recently understood this difference. Wheel balancing ensures the wheel rotates smoothly to avoid steering wheel vibrations or body tremors; simply put, it involves attaching small lead weights to the rim to balance the weight. Wheel alignment is different—it adjusts the angles of all four wheels, ensuring they all point straight to prevent pulling or uneven tire wear. Last month, I experienced this: my car's steering wheel shook at high speeds, and wheel balancing fixed it; later, it kept pulling right, and an inspection revealed misalignment, which required professional equipment for precise adjustment. The service fees also differ significantly—balancing costs just a few dozen bucks, while alignment can run over a hundred. Don’t confuse the two—address the right issue to ensure safety.