Wheel Alignment vs. Wheel Balancing - Is There a Difference?
August 31, 2023
Wheel Alignment vs. Wheel Balancing - Is There a Difference?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, terms like "wheel alignment" and "wheel balancing" often get tossed around, sometimes interchangeably. However, wheel alignment and wheel balancing serve different purposes in achieving your car's optimal performance. In this guide, we will compare both and explain why each is necessary for a smooth and safe ride.
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles of your vehicle's wheels to match the manufacturer's specifications. The primary purpose of wheel alignment is to ensure that all four wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. There are three key angles that technicians focus on during a wheel alignment:
Wheel balancing, on the other hand, addresses the distribution of weight around each wheel and tire assembly. When a tire and wheel are manufactured, they may not be perfectly balanced. Over time, as tires wear unevenly, this imbalance can become more pronounced. Wheel balancing involves attaching small weights to the rim of the wheel to equalize the distribution of weight. This process ensures that the tire and wheel assembly spins evenly, reducing vibrations and extending tire life.
Wheel alignment and wheel balancing serve different purposes, despite them being mixed up. They are equally important for a safe and smooth driving experience. Here's a quick comparison:
For all of your wheel needs, whether it be balancing, changing, or alignment, come directly to Taylor Co Automotive ! Our team is excited to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.
â–§ Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of the angles of your vehicle's wheels to match the manufacturer's specifications. The primary purpose of wheel alignment is to ensure that all four wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. There are three key angles that technicians focus on during a wheel alignment:
- Camber:
This angle measures the tilt of the wheel concerning the vertical axis. Negative camber means the top of the wheel leans inward, positive camber implies it leans outward, and zero camber indicates the wheel is perfectly vertical. Incorrect camber can lead to uneven tire wear and handling issues.
- Toe:
Toe alignment determines whether the wheels are parallel to each other when viewed from above. If the wheels point inward, it's called toe-in, and if they point outward, it's called toe-out. Incorrect toe alignment can cause your tires to wear prematurely and affect steering stability.
- Caster: The caster measures the angle of the steering axis concerning the vertical axis when viewed from the side. Proper caster alignment ensures steering stability and returnability after turning the steering wheel.
â–§ Wheel Balancing
Wheel balancing, on the other hand, addresses the distribution of weight around each wheel and tire assembly. When a tire and wheel are manufactured, they may not be perfectly balanced. Over time, as tires wear unevenly, this imbalance can become more pronounced. Wheel balancing involves attaching small weights to the rim of the wheel to equalize the distribution of weight. This process ensures that the tire and wheel assembly spins evenly, reducing vibrations and extending tire life.
â–§ So, Are They Even Different?
Wheel alignment and wheel balancing serve different purposes, despite them being mixed up. They are equally important for a safe and smooth driving experience. Here's a quick comparison:
- Purpose:
Wheel alignment corrects the angles of your wheels to ensure proper handling, steering, and tire wear. Wheel balancing corrects weight distribution issues to reduce vibrations and extend tire life.
- Symptoms:
Incorrect wheel alignment can lead to steering problems, uneven tire wear, and drifting. Wheel imbalance often causes vibrations in the steering wheel and throughout the vehicle at certain speeds.
- Frequency: Wheel alignment is typically performed as needed, such as after hitting a pothole or when experiencing handling issues. Wheel balancing is recommended when you install new tires and periodically to address tire wear.
For all of your wheel needs, whether it be balancing, changing, or alignment, come directly to Taylor Co Automotive ! Our team is excited to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.
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Introduction Seasons change, and with them come new challenges for your car. As the air turns crisper and roads may see more rain, now is the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. A proactive check now can prevent surprises later breakdowns, costly repairs, or unsafe driving conditions. At Super Service of Pomona Valley , we’re committed to making your auto care experience smoother, more transparent, and more reliable. With our digital inspections, concierge services, and experienced technicians, we’re here to help you finish the year strong and head into the next season with confidence. In this article, we’ll walk through the key systems to inspect, the benefits of doing so, and how our team can help make it hassle-free. Why Seasonal Checks are Smart Right Now A lot changes between hot and cooler months: humidity, rain levels, daylight hours, road conditions, and temperature fluctuations. All of these can strain your car in different ways. Fluids respond differently in cooler weather: Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid may perform differently, and aging fluids are more vulnerable. Battery performance is sensitive to weather shifts: After enduring heat, your battery may be weaker than you think. Cooler weather can expose its weaknesses. Tires & grip matter more: Rain and colder pavement reduce traction, meaning proper tread, alignment, and tire pressure become critical. Lights & visibility become more vital: With shorter days and possible rain or fog, fully functional headlights, brake lights, wipers, and defrosters are essential for safety. Belts, hoses & rubber parts: Temperature swings can accelerate cracking, brittleness, or failure in hoses, belts, and seals if they’re already aged. Heating, defroster & HVAC systems: You want your defroster, heater, and ventilation to work well before the weather worsens; waiting until you need them is risky. Because these changes happen gradually, many drivers don't notice until something fails. Doing a seasonal inspection now means catching weak points while they’re still manageable. What We Inspect During a Seasonal Check At Super Service of Pomona Valley, our seasonal check covers all systems most affected by weather transitions: Battery & Charging System We test battery health, clean terminals, check connections, and ensure your charging system is working properly. Fluids & Coolant We check engine oil, coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and top or replace them as necessary. Tires & Alignment We’ll inspect tread depth, look for uneven wear, rotate if needed, and check wheel alignment to ensure stable handling. Brakes Pads, rotors, lines, fluid: everything is checked to make sure your braking system is reliable under challenging conditions. Lights, Wipers & Visibility Headlights, tail lights, turn signals, interior lights all tested. Wiper blades get inspected and replaced if needed. We also check wiper fluid levels and the defroster system. Belts, Hoses & Seals Any cracks, leaks, or brittleness in belts and hoses are flagged. Seals are examined for leaks or deterioration. HVAC / Heating / Defrost Ensure your heating and defrost functions work properly so you’re ready when you need to clear windows or warm up the cabin. Suspension & Steering Components Worn shocks, struts, bushings or steering parts are checked so your car stays stable and predictable. As part of our process, you’ll receive a digital inspection report with photos and videos. We want you to see exactly what our technicians see, no surprises, no pressure, only honest explanations. The Benefits of Acting Now Why not wait until something breaks? Here’s what you gain by being proactive Safety & peace of mind; You’ll drive knowing the car is assessed and ready for changing conditions. Cost savings: Addressing minor issues early is far cheaper than emergency repairs after failure. Better performance: With proper fluids, alignment, and functional systems, your car will run smoother, more efficiently, and reliably. Longevity: Your vehicle ages more gracefully when regular maintenance is done. No inconvenience: By planning, you’re less likely to be stranded or dealing with last-minute emergencies. Conclusion Don’t wait until the weather takes a toll on your car. A seasonal check now gives you confidence, safety, and reliability as conditions shift. At Super Service of Pomona Valley, we’re here to support you with top-tier care, transparency, and convenience. Let us help you prepare: before a small issue becomes a big problem. 📅 Ready to book your seasonal vehicle inspection? https://www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com/
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Introduction: September marks the return to routine: school schedules, daily commutes, and weekend errands. But with more time spent on the road, you may also notice your gas tank draining faster. At a time when fuel prices can spike with little warning, every mile counts . Fortunately, improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of proactive maintenance and some smart driving habits. That’s why Super Service of Pomona Valley is helping drivers reset their fuel efficiency this fall—with data-backed strategies that save both fuel and money. How Your Vehicle Slowly Loses MPG Over time, various parts of your car wear down, get dirty, or fall out of sync. While your engine may still "feel fine," small inefficiencies can reduce fuel economy by 10–20%, costing you hundreds each year. Here’s what typically drags down your MPG: Clogged Air Filters : Reduce oxygen to the engine, leading to poor combustion. Underin flated Tires : Increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder. Worn Spark Plugs : Misfires or delayed ignition reduce fuel efficiency and power. Old Engine Oil : Causes more friction and strain on internal components. Dragging Brakes : A sticking caliper can constantly resist movement, wasting fuel. Poor Wheel Alignment : Misalignment means the vehicle fights against its own motion. How Much Can You Save? According to the U.S. Department of Energy : Fixing a serious maintenance issue (like a faulty oxygen sensor) can improve mileage by up to 40% Replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy by up to 10% Proper tire inflation improves gas mileage by up to 3% Even small savings compound over time. Improving your fuel efficiency by just 2 MPG could save the average driver over $150 a year . Fall Fuel-Saving Checklist A simple fall tune-up can restore your engine’s performance and fuel economy. Here’s what we recommend: Replace Dirty Air Filters – Restore clean airflow for optimal combustion Check and Adjust Tire Pressure – Especially important during seasonal temperature drops Inspect Spark Plugs – Replace if fouled or past their service life Flush or Replace Engine Oil – Use the manufacturer-recommended viscosity Check Brake Performance – Ensure no dragging or uneven resistance Align the Wheels – Prevent excessive fuel usage from misalignment Run Diagnostic Scan – Address any "Check Engine" lights or fault codes Tips for Smarter Driving Even the most fuel-efficient car can guzzle gas with poor driving habits. To save even more: Avoid Aggressive Driving : Rapid starts and hard braking lower MPG Minimize Idling : Modern engines don’t need long warmups Remove Excess Weight : Every 100 lbs reduces MPG Plan Routes Efficiently : Combine errands to reduce mileage Use Cruise Control on Highways : Maintains consistent speeds Why Super Service of Pomona Valley? We take a comprehensive approach to fuel efficiency: Certified Technicians trained in performance diagnostics Digital Inspections with full transparency Clear Explanations and no-pressure service Affordable Fall Tune-Up Packages Free Alignment Check with every visit Convenient Scheduling, Loaners, and Shuttle Options Conclusion: With daily routines back in full swing and fuel prices rising, now is the time to optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy. A fall efficiency reset can improve your car’s performance, save you money at the pump, and reduce your environmental impact. 👉 Schedule your fuel-efficiency tune-up today at www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com and start saving with every mile.
Introduction: Vehicle maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems when they arise; it’s about taking proactive steps to avoid them in the first place. Regular preventative maintenance is the key to extending the life of your vehicle, improving its performance, and ensuring it’s always road-ready. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we believe in the power of preventative care, and in this blog, we’ll explore why keeping up with regular maintenance is one of the smartest investments you can make for your car. 1. The Importance of Regular Oil Changes Oil changes are one of the most basic—and essential—forms of preventative maintenance. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, reducing friction and helping to prevent overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, leading to poor engine performance and potential damage. What to do: Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we use high-quality oils and filters to keep your engine running smoothly. Our technicians will also check other fluids during the oil change to ensure everything is in top shape. 2. Tire Maintenance: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency Tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their upkeep crucial for your safety. Regular tire maintenance—such as checking tire pressure, rotating your tires, and balancing them—ensures even wear, better fuel efficiency, and longer-lasting tires. What to do: Have your tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even tread wear. Also, check tire pressure regularly and get them balanced when necessary to prevent vibrations and ensure smooth handling. 3. Brake Inspections: Preventing Costly Failure s Your braking system is one of the most critical safety features in your car. Regular brake inspections help identify worn-out brake pads, low fluid levels, or other issues that could lead to brake failure. A sudden brake failure can be dangerous, but regular inspections allow you to fix small issues before they turn into emergencies. What to do: Have your brakes inspected during routine maintenance visits. Dana Meyer Auto Care’s ASE-certified technicians will check the pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure your brakes are functioning properly. 4. Battery Maintenance: Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns Car batteries don’t last forever. Regular battery checks ensure that your battery is holding a charge and functioning properly. A weak or dying battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible time, but routine maintenance can prevent that. What to do: Have your battery tested during your regular maintenance visits. Our technicians will inspect the terminals for corrosion and ensure it’s properly charged so you can start your day without worrying about your car’s reliability. 5. Fluid Checks: Keeping Your Engine and Transmission Running Smoothly Your vehicle depends on a variety of fluids to operate efficiently—coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and more. Regular fluid checks ensure that your car’s systems stay properly lubricated, preventing overheating and premature wear. What to do: Have all fluids checked regularly, and top them off or replace them when necessary. We can perform fluid flushes as needed to keep your engine and transmission systems running smoothly. 6. Preventing Major Repairs Saves You Money Many of the most expensive car repairs could have been prevented with regular maintenance. Small problems, if ignored, can escalate into major issues that cost much more to fix. By investing in preventative maintenance, you’re saving yourself the headache of costly repairs in the future. What to do: Schedule regular checkups at Dana Meyer Auto Care to catch minor issues before they turn into major problems. Preventative maintenance is far less expensive than repairing a damaged engine, transmission, or braking system. Conclusion: Take Control of Your Vehicle’s Health with Dana Meyer Auto Care Preventative maintenance is an investment in your vehicle’s future. By staying on top of regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we’re here to help you maintain your vehicle with the highest level of service and care. Schedule your next preventative maintenance appointment with us today. Visit www.danameyerautocare.com or call (510) 292-4900 to book your appointment. Keeping your car in peak condition is easy with Dana Meyer Auto Care by your side!
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Introduction: When summer heat rises, so do your chances of tire failure. In Pomona Valley, August is peak season for long drives, highway travel, and sweltering blacktop temperatures. But there’s one critical part of your car that’s often overlooked: your tires. Tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, and when the temperatures hit triple digits, they’re the first to feel the stress. Combined with underinflation, aging tread, or uneven wear, this heat becomes a serious safety hazard. That’s why August is Tire Check Month at Super Service of Pomona Valley. Taking just a few minutes to inspect your tires now can prevent dangerous blowouts and costly roadside breakdowns later. How Summer Heat Affects Your Tires Tires may look tough on the outside, but inside, they are made of complex rubber compounds designed to operate within a certain temperature range. Summer heat can push them well beyond that range, especially when driving on sun-baked asphalt. Here’s how heat affects your tires: Increased Road Surface Temperature: Pavement can reach up to 160°F, heating the air inside your tires and increasing internal pressure. Faster Rubber Degradation: UV rays and heat accelerate the aging of rubber, making tires more prone to cracking and separation. Low Tread Equals Less Safety: Bald tires lose grip on hot roads and are more likely to hydroplane during sudden summer storms. Did You Know? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) , tire-related issues cause over 11,000 crashes annually in the U.S., and tire blowouts spike during the hottest months. The Danger of Under- and Overinflation Temperature fluctuations affect your tire pressure more than you might think. For every 10°F increase, tire pressure increases by approximately 1 PSI (pounds per square inch). That may sound small, but it adds up. Underinflated Tires flex more, causing heat buildup. This can lead to tread separation, sidewall bulging, and eventual blowouts. Overinflated Tires reduce the contact patch with the road, leading to poor grip, uneven wear, and a harsher ride. Maintaining correct tire pressure based on your vehicle’s manual, not the number printed on the tire, is essential to safety and fuel economy. Tread Depth: Your First Line of Defense Tread depth determines how well your tires grip the road. As it wears down, your vehicle becomes more vulnerable to skidding, slipping, and hydroplaning. The legal minimum in most states is 2/32 of an inch, but safety experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32 or earlier, especially in wet conditions. Quick Test: The Penny Trick Insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace the tire. Tire Safety Checklist for August Use this checklist to prepare your vehicle for the intense summer heat: Check Tread Depth: Replace if below 4/32" for safe summer grip Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, cuts, bulges, or sidewall bubbles Monitor Tire Pressure: Check monthly and adjust when temperatures change Check Tire Age: Replace tires older than 6 years, regardless of tread depth Rotate Tires: Every 5,000–6,000 miles to ensure even wear Schedule Wheel Alignment: Keeps your tires from wearing out prematurely Balance Tires: Prevents vibrations and ensures smooth, high-speed travel Why Trust Super Service of Pomona Valley? At Super Service, your safety is our top priority. When it comes to tire care, we go beyond the basics: Certified Tire Specialists are trained to detect early warning signs Top-Tier Tire Brands available on-site with expert installation Digital Inspections with real-time photo and video updates On-Site Balancing & Alignment Services 3-Year / 36,000-Mile Warranty on most repairs and services No-Pressure, Honest Recommendations Shuttle Service & Loaner Cars available for your convenience Conclusion: Your tires are the unsung heroes of your vehicle’s safety and performance, especially during the heat of August. A quick tire inspection now could save you from a serious accident or expensive roadside emergency later. 👉 Schedule your free tire check today at www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com and roll through the season with confidence, safety, and peace of mind
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Gas prices got you feeling the pinch? You’re not alone. Drivers across Pomona Valley are looking for ways to stretch every gallon and make the most out of their daily commute. Whether you're cruising down Foothill Boulevard or navigating weekend traffic, improving your fuel efficiency can save you money—and help your car last longer. At Super Service of Pomona Valley , we believe that smart vehicle maintenance leads to smarter driving. Here’s your ultimate guide to boosting fuel economy, reducing emissions, and getting the most out of every mile. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated Low tire pressure is one of the most overlooked causes of poor fuel efficiency. When your tires aren’t inflated to the correct PSI, your engine works harder to move the vehicle—burning more fuel in the process. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long drives. Bonus Tip: Rotate and align your tires regularly to ensure even wear and optimal road contact. Stay on Top of Oil Changes Clean motor oil reduces friction inside your engine, helping everything run smoothly and efficiently. Overdue oil changes force your engine to work harder, which increases fuel consumption. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals—or ask our team to help you find the best schedule for your driving habits. Replace Dirty Air Filters Your engine needs a steady supply of clean air to burn fuel efficiently. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and lower your gas mileage. Replacing your air filter is a quick and inexpensive way to improve performance and efficiency—especially in Pomona’s dusty driving conditions. Avoid Aggressive Driving Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and speeding can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30% on the highway and 40% in stop-and-go traffic. Smooth, steady driving not only saves gas but also extends the life of your brakes and tires. Reduce Extra Weight Are you hauling around unused gear in your trunk? Extra weight—especially heavy items—can decrease fuel economy. The lighter your car, the less strain on your engine. Unload anything you don’t need on your daily commute. Don’t Let Your Car Idle Letting your engine run while parked wastes gas and increases emissions. Modern engines warm up quickly and don’t need long idle times—even in cooler weather. Turn off the engine if you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute. Schedule Routine Maintenance Regular maintenance checks—like spark plug inspections, fuel system cleanings, and alignment services—help keep your engine operating at peak efficiency. At Super Service of Pomona Valley , our ASE-certified technicians can spot issues that quietly drain your fuel mileage. FAQ: Fuel Efficiency Tips for Pomona Drivers 1. What’s the easiest way to improve gas mileage? Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to boost MPG. Combine that with gentle driving habits and regular maintenance, and you’ll see a noticeable difference. 2. Can a check engine light affect fuel economy? Yes. A check engine light often signals a problem that could hurt fuel efficiency—like a bad oxygen sensor, failing spark plug, or a clogged fuel injector. Don’t ignore it! 3. How much does an old air filter really affect mileage? A dirty air filter can reduce gas mileage by up to 10% . Replacing it is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to give your engine a breath of fresh air. 4. Should I use premium gas for better mileage? Not necessarily. Unless your vehicle specifically requires premium fuel, using it won’t improve fuel economy. Stick to what your manufacturer recommends. 5. How often should I get a tune-up to help with MPG? We recommend a full tune-up every 30,000 to 50,000 miles , depending on your vehicle. Routine inspections can also help spot smaller issues before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems. Can Repairs Be Covered By My Aftermarket Warranty? Super Service of Pomona Valley has been getting very busy with aftermarket warranties! We do them all, especially CarMax aftermarket warranties. The local CarMax team is reportedly 3 weeks backed up, and we have been getting a lot of overflow. Our auto repair team works on all aftermarket warranties at all of our Super Service locations. The main aftermarket warranties we work with include: CarMax Fidelity CNA Assurance AAA Progressive Mercury Drive Further with Help from Super Service of Pomona Valley Improving fuel efficiency is easier than you think—with the right care and driving habits. Whether you're due for an oil change, a filter replacement, or a full inspection, our team is here to help you get more miles for your money. Call (909) 316-6166 , visit us at 348 E. Foothill Blvd, Pomona, CA , or book your appointment online . Let’s make every gallon count!
