Wheel alignment vs wheel balancing

Alignment

Alignment sets the angles of the wheels relative to each other and to the road. When those angles are off, a car may pull to one side and the tyres may wear on one edge. A kerb impact or worn suspension parts can change the angles.

Balancing

Balancing corrects uneven weight in the wheel and tyre assembly. The usual sign is a vibration that appears at certain speeds, often felt in the steering wheel or the seat.

Uneven wear, a pull and a vibration can have more than one cause, so the workshop confirms whether alignment, balancing or another inspection is the right next step.