A wheel alignment involves adjusting the vehicle's suspension system—the system that
connects the vehicle to its wheels. It does not involve adjusting the tires or wheels themselves.
The goal is to square the vehicle's wheels and axles with each other so they are moving in the
same direction, ensuring the tires make proper contact with the road and reduce tire wear.

Common warning signs include:

• The vehicle pulling to the left or right while driving on a straight, flat road.
• Uneven or rapid tire wear (e.g., the inside or outside edge of the tire is bald).
• The steering wheel is crooked when driving straight.
• Squealing tires.

A good rule of thumb is to have your alignment checked once a year or every 10,000 miles. Also
whenever you replace your tires. However, you should get it checked immediately if you hit a
severe pothole, curb, or large debris, or if you notice any of the warning signs mentioned
above.

No, they are different services. An alignment adjusts the angles of the tires to affect how they
make contact with the road. Wheel balancing corrects weight imbalances within the tire and
wheel assembly to prevent vibrations.

Most manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. A convenient
way to remember is to have them rotated every time you get an oil change.

When a tire is mounted onto a wheel, the weight is rarely distributed perfectly evenly. A tire
balance involves placing the wheel and tire assembly on a balancing machine that spins it to
identify heavy spots. Small lead or zinc weights are then attached to the rim to counteract
those heavy spots, ensuring the wheel rolls smoothly.

The most common symptom is a vibration in the steering wheel, floorboard, or seat,
particularly at highway speeds (usually between 50 and 70 mph). You might also notice
scalloped or cupped wear patterns on the tires.