Quick answer
Wheel alignment adjusts the angles of your wheels so they point straight and meet the road correctly. Wheel balancing adds small weights so each wheel and tyre spins evenly without vibration.
A car that pulls to one side usually needs alignment. A steering wheel or seat that vibrates at speed usually points to balancing.
Step-by-step guidance
- Note the symptom: pulling or uneven tyre wear, or vibration at certain speeds.
- Ask the fitment centre to check both if you are unsure.
- Have wheels balanced whenever new tyres are fitted.
- Have alignment checked after hitting a pothole or kerb hard.
What to check
- Whether the quote covers balancing all four wheels
- Whether alignment is front-only or four-wheel
- A printout of the alignment readings
Common mistakes to avoid
- Treating vibration with an alignment, or pulling with balancing
- Fitting new tyres without balancing them
- Ignoring uneven tyre wear
Related nearby services
NearMe lists 21 wheel alignment centres across South Africa, with the most in Gauteng (13), Western Cape (2) and KwaZulu-Natal (2). 100% include a phone number, so you can check before you go.
Find wheel alignment centres near you
This guide gives general information only. Rules, fees and requirements can change, so confirm details with the provider or the relevant authority. NearMe is an independent directory, not the provider.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need both when I buy tyres?
Balancing is normally done when tyres are fitted; an alignment check is a good idea at the same time.
Can bad alignment cause vibration?
It usually causes pulling and uneven wear; vibration is more often a balancing or tyre problem.
How long does each take?
Both are usually quick jobs. Ask the workshop when you book.