Wheel alignment vs balancing: which one fixes pulling and vibration?

People search “wheel alignment vs balancing” because both are sold after tire work and the symptoms overlap. Booking the wrong one wastes money and leaves the car feeling off.

Balancing

Balancing corrects weight distribution on each wheel-tire assembly. Book it for steering-wheel shake at motorway speeds, especially after a tire change or puncture repair.

Alignment (tracking / geometry)

Alignment sets camber, caster, and toe to manufacturer specs. Book it when the car pulls left or right, the steering wheel sits off-centre, or tires wear on the inner or outer edge.

When to book both

• After hitting a deep pothole or kerb
• After suspension or steering repairs
• When fitting a new set of tires

On CarFix, pick tire change / balance or ask the garage in the booking notes for a four-wheel geometry check if the car pulls.