The streets in New Orleans with the deep potholes, big cracks, and deep possibly bottomless puddles can feel more like off road driving at times. The rough terrain we operate our vehicles in takes a toll on our suspensions, tires and drivetrain. Here are some signs to look for if you are asking yourself the question “Do my tire need to be balanced or aligned”?
First off let’s understand the difference between an Alignment and a Tire Balance.
Tire balancing corrects uneven weight distribution on your wheels. First we remove the old weights, then install your wheel and tire on a specialized piece of equipment called a wheel balancer. After calibrating the machine to your wheel it then spins the wheel and calculates where weight needs to be added. One of our Technicians adds the weight and then re-checks the wheel to make sure it is in balance.
Wheel Alignment is correcting the angles of your wheels. We use special equipment and a special lift to bring your vehicles suspension and steering into manufacturer recommended tolerances. Your vehicle is guided onto our alignment lift and centered, then specialized targets that look like large QR codes are installed on your wheels. Our aligner then uses multiple cameras to measure your vehicle and is then adjusted by our of our Technicians.
Signs of Needing a Tire Balancing
– If you are noticing a shake or vibration in your vehicle, especially at highway speed you could need a tire balance.
– If you have just gotten a tire repaired or replaced you need a tire balance. If you have just rotated your tires you should have them balanced.
– If you notice a shake after you hit a pothole you may need a tire balance.
Signs of Needing a Wheel Alignment
– If you are noticing your vehicle pulling or drifting to one side when driving you probably need an alignment.
– If your steering wheel is crooked but the car is driving straight you need an alignment.
– If you have had any suspension or steering components changed you need an alignment.
– If you have changed a set of tires you should have an alignment.
– If you noticed a change in the way your vehicle drives (pull or wheel off) you may need an alignment, but something may also be bent.
Tire Balancing and Wheel Alignment can be related in many ways. Both Tire Balancing and Wheel Alignment will help prolong the life of your tires. Both will help give you maximum fuel economy. Both will help you maintain the best possible control of your vehicle.
The mechanics at Tim’s are ready and happy to help with any tire or alignment problems you may have.
Make a reservation today!
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