Wheel Balancing vs Wheel Alignment — Key Differences Every Driver Should Know

What Is Wheel Balancing?

Wheel balancing corrects uneven weight distribution around the tyre and wheel assembly. When a tyre is fitted, even tiny imperfections in the tyre and wheel can create imbalance. At speed, this causes vibration — typically felt through the steering wheel or seat at 50–70mph.

Signs You Need Wheel Balancing:

• Vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds
• Vibration felt through the seat or floor at speed
• Scalloped or cupped tyre wear pattern
• Any time new tyres are fitted

How Wheel Balancing Is Done:

The wheel is spun on a balancing machine. The machine identifies where and how much weight is needed. Small lead or adhesive weights are attached to the rim to bring the wheel into perfect balance. MobileTyreGuys performs dynamic wheel balancing with every tyre fitting as standard.

What Is Wheel Alignment?

Wheel alignment (also called tracking) adjusts the angles of the tyres relative to the vehicle and each other, ensuring they are parallel and sitting at the correct angle to the road. Alignment is set by the vehicle manufacturer and can be knocked out by hitting kerbs, potholes or road accidents.

Signs You Need Wheel Alignment:

• Car pulls to one side on a straight, level road
• Steering wheel is not centred when driving straight
• Tyres wearing unevenly — more on inner or outer edge
• Squealing tyres when cornering gently

Key Differences

Factor	Balancing	Alignment
What it fixes	Vibration at speed	Car pulling, uneven wear
When needed	Every tyre change; when vibrating	After kerb impact; yearly check
Equipment	Balancing machine	Alignment rig (usually requires a ramp)

Should You Do Both?

When fitting new tyres, always have them balanced. It's included in MobileTyreGuys' fitting service. Alignment should be checked at least once a year — we recommend checking it after any significant kerb impact or pothole strike.