Potholes, kerbs and speed humps knock wheel angles out over time. When that happens, the car may pull to one side, the steering wheel may sit off-centre, and your tyres wear on one edge. Unbalanced wheels cause vibration, usually felt through the steering wheel at highway speeds.
Alignment sets the angles of your wheels to the manufacturer's figures. Balancing evens out the weight around each wheel and tyre. Both protect your tyres and make the car nicer to drive.
You need an alignment if
- The car pulls left or right on a straight road
- The steering wheel is not straight when driving straight
- Tyres wear on the inside or outside edge
- You've hit a big pothole or kerb
- You've had steering or suspension work done
- You've fitted new tyres
You need balancing if
- The steering wheel shakes at certain speeds
- You feel vibration through the seat or floor
- You have new tyres or a tyre has been removed from the rim
Check the parts first
Alignment won't hold if suspension or steering parts are worn. We inspect suspension and steering first and tell you if something needs attention.
Common questions
How often should I get an alignment?
When fitting new tyres, after suspension work, after a hard knock, or if you notice pulling or uneven wear.
What's the difference between alignment and balancing?
Alignment sets wheel angles. Balancing fixes weight distribution in the wheel and tyre.
Will alignment fix a vibration?
Vibration is usually balance, a damaged rim or a worn part. We find which.
Do you align bakkies and SUVs?
Yes, cars, bakkies, SUVs and vans.
