Tire Balance vs. Alignment: Which One Do You Need?
Both tire balancing and alignment support a smoother ride, but they're different services. Learn the difference and signs you might need one over the other.
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Vehicle Safety Systems are features that assist a driver during operation of a vehicle. Many modern vehicles are equipped with Safety Systems such as Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) and/or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Sensors, cameras, lasers and radars that help your vehicle detect other vehicles, pedestrians and markings on the road all rely on proper alignment to function accurately.
A wheel alignment will include inflating your tires to the correct air pressure, inspecting the steering and suspension system, aligning the vehicle to manufacturer's specifications and a test drive to ensure all systems are aligned to the straight-ahead position and working properly.
If your car manufacturer requires the recalibrations of features associated with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems as part of the alignment service, a Safety Systems Alignment will be required to recalibrate cameras, sensors and radars along with a test drive to ensure these systems are working properly.
Failure to perform OEM required recalibrations may cause a vehicle to operate erratically, which may contribute to collisions or other safety issues.
The most common manufacturers that may require a recalibration of ADAS features as part of an alignment service are:
• BMW • Audi • Ford • Lincoln • Jeep • Kia • Dodge • Subaru • Volkswagen • Chrysler • Porsche • Chevrolet • GMC • Hyundai • Infinity • Lexus • Mercedes Benz • Toyota
*Most of our locations are equipped with the latest technology to perform Safety System Alignments but capability varies per location.
We invest in the latest technology, employ the best technicians and train them to get you back on the road safe. Vehicle requirements vary by vehicle manufacturer, year, make and model. Not all vehicles equipped with safety system features require recalibration, but if they do, Safety System Alignments require:
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