Purpose: Wheel balancing involves ensuring that the weight distribution around the circumference of each wheel and tire assembly is uniform. This helps prevent vibrations, uneven tire wear, and steering issues caused by imbalances. Procedure: During wheel balancing, the technician uses a balancing machine to determine any imbalances in the wheel and tire assembly. Small counterweights are then attached to the rim of the wheel to offset these imbalances and achieve proper balance. Signs of Imbalance: Common signs of wheel imbalance include vibrations in the steering wheel or seats, uneven tire wear, and steering that feels "loose" or unstable, especially at higher speeds. Benefits: Proper wheel balancing improves ride comfort, reduces tire wear, enhances steering control, and minimizes stress on the vehicle's suspension components. Wheel Alignment: Purpose: Wheel alignment involves adjusting the angles of the wheels relative to each other and to the vehicle's frame or suspension system. This ensures that the wheels are perpendicular to the ground and parallel to each other, optimizing vehicle handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency. Types of Alignment: There are three primary types of wheel alignment: Toe Alignment: Adjusts the angle of the wheels relative to the centerline of the vehicle when viewed from above. Camber Alignment: Adjusts the angle of the wheels relative to the vertical axis of the vehicle when viewed from the front or rear. Caster Alignment: Adjusts the angle of the steering axis relative to the vertical axis of the vehicle when viewed from the side. Procedure: During wheel alignment, the technician uses specialized alignment equipment to measure the current alignment angles of the wheels and make adjustments as needed to bring them into the manufacturer's specified tolerances. Signs of Misalignment: Common signs of wheel misalignment include uneven or rapid tire wear, pulling to one side while driving, steering wheel off-center when driving straight, and vibrations or shimmying at certain speeds. Benefits: Proper wheel alignment improves vehicle stability, steering response, tire longevity, and fuel efficiency. It also reduces the risk of premature suspension component wear and enhances overall driving comfort and safety.