Advice from Bucaro Brothers Auto Care on Extending the Life of Your Tires
Wheel alignment and tire balancing are two of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your tires. We encourage you to continue reading as we explain the difference between alignment and balancing, as well as the importance of both services.
Tire Alignment vs Balancing
Even though alignment and balancing complement each other to provide a smoother ride in your vehicle and longer tire life, they are actually separate services. But most repair shops will perform both at the same time.
Tire Alignment
This service, also known as “front end” or “four-wheel” alignment involves adjusting the angles of your suspension system, and no service is actually performed on the wheels or tires of your vehicle.
When your suspension is out of alignment, the end result is wear and tear on the edges of your tires. In contrast, when your suspension and tires are properly aligned, your tires remain firmly planted on the pavement and move in a straight line. That provides not only a smoother ride but increased tread life on your tires as well.
Signs You Need Wheel Alignment Services
These include:
- Vehicle pulling to one side
- Vibrating steering wheel
- Steering wheel feels somewhat off center
- Squealing or squeaking tires, especially when turning
Tire Balancing
Tire imbalance is caused by one area of the tire or wheel being heavier or lower than the other areas, and this imbalance can shorten the life of your tires.
A skilled technician can use a balancing machine to determine what adjustments need to be made to ensure your tires and wheels are properly balanced.
Signs Your Tires Need to Be Balanced
These include:
- Steering wheel vibration while driving
- Rumbling, growling, or thumping noises while driving
- Tire wear, including bald spots on the middle or edge of your tire treads
As part of your vehicle’s regular maintenance routine, it’s a good idea to balance and rotate your tires and wheels every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This will not only extend the life of your tires but provide better handling, braking, and an overall smoother ride.
Bucaro Brothers Auto Care – Affordable Alignment, Balancing, and Auto Service
For over 35 years, Bucaro Brothers Auto Care, conveniently located in Lincoln Park, has provided Chicagoland motorists with outstanding service at reasonable prices. All our technicians are highly experienced and ASE-certified, and whatever maintenance or repair services you need, including alignment and balancing, we can do it for you. And we’ll have you back on the road in no time at all!
